VR 300 is a pre-hardened, premium-quality mould steel widely used in the plastic mould industry. It belongs to the same family as P20/P20+S (1.2311 / 1.2738) but is specially improved for better hardness uniformity, polishability, toughness, and machinability. Because it is supplied in a pre-hardened condition (typically 30–33 HRC), VR 300 does not require further heat treatment, reducing manufacturing time and preventing dimensional distortion.

Key Properties of VR 300

1. Uniform Hardness

The biggest advantage of its consistent hardness across thick sections. Compared to normal P20 steels, VR 300 maintains stable hardness from the surface to the core. This makes it ideal for large moulds, ensuring dimensional stability and long mould life.

2. Excellent Machinability

VR 300 machines smoothly, allowing fast milling, drilling, EDM, and grinding. Tool wear is lower, which helps reduce manufacturing cost and time.

3. High Toughness

It has superior toughness, reducing the chances of cracking or breakage during machining or mould operation. This makes it suitable for high-pressure injection moulding applications.

4. Superior Polishability & Texturing

It offers a fine and homogeneous microstructure. This results in excellent mirror polishing and uniform texturing, making it perfect for:

a. Automotive interior moulds

b. Home appliance moulds

c. Packaging components

d. Consumer product casings

5. Good Weldability

VR 300 can be easily welded for repair and maintenance. Proper preheating and post-weld finishing ensure consistent hardness around welded zones.

6. Nitriding Capability

VR 300 can be nitrided to achieve a surface hardness of 55–60 HRC, improving:

a. Wear resistance

b. Scratch resistance

c. Service life of moulds

Common Applications

1. Injection moulds for medium to large components

2. Blow moulds

3. Mould bases

4. Die casting tools for low-melting alloys

5. Moulds that require high surface finish

6. Automotive exterior and interior part moulds

7. Consumer electronics housings

VR 300 is an upgraded version of P20-class mould steel with better hardness uniformity, polishability, toughness, and machinability. It is ideal for high-performance plastic moulds, especially where large mould sizes and surface finishing quality are critical.