D3/ 1.2080/ X210Cr12, is a high-carbon, high-chromium cold-work tool steel widely used in applications requiring exceptional wear resistance, high hardness, and dimensional stability. It belongs to the family of oil-hardening tool steels, with its composition designed to offer superior performance under abrasive conditions.

D3 develops extremely high hardness after heat treatment (typically 58–62 HRC), making it ideal for cutting, forming, and high-wear tooling. Its high chromium content (~12%) gives it excellent wear resistance and moderate corrosion resistance.

Key Properties of D3 / 1.2080

1. Extremely High Wear Resistance

D3 is known for its ability to withstand:

a. Abrasive wear

b. Sliding contact

c. Repetitive impact on hardened surfaces

This makes it suitable for tools that must cut or shape tough materials.

2. High Hardness (58–62 HRC)

After proper heat treatment, D3 achieves very high hardness. This contributes to:

a. Long die life

b. High cutting accuracy

c. Precision tool performance

3. Good Dimensional Stability

During heat treatment, D3 maintains strong dimensional stability, making it ideal for parts requiring tight tolerances.

4. Moderate Toughness

Because of the high carbide content, D3 has lower toughness than D2(1.2379).
It should not be used in applications involving heavy shock loads.

5. Good Wear + Compressive Strength

It withstands high compressive forces, suitable for stamping and forming dies.

6. Decent Corrosion Resistance

Though not a stainless steel, its 12% chromium content gives better corrosion resistance than standard tool steels.

Common Applications

1. Punches, dies, and blanking tools

2. Shear blades and slitting cutters

3. Drawing & forming dies

4. Embossing & stamping tools

5. Reamers, broaches, and hand tools

6. Wear plates and guides

7. Woodworking cutters

8. Cold forging applications

Summary

D3/ 1.2080 is a high-carbon, high-chromium cold work tool steel known for exceptional wear resistance, high hardness, and stability. It is ideal for tools that experience heavy abrasion and require long service life. While not very tough, its strong performance in precision cutting, stamping, and forming applications makes it one of the most widely used cold work steels.