1.2083 / X40Cr14 – Stainless tool steel with high corrosion resistance
Steel 1.2083 (X40Cr14) is a martensitic stainless tool steel containing approximately 13–14% chromium. It is known for its high corrosion resistance, very good polishability and stable hardness after hardening.
It is mainly used where tools or moulds come into contact with corrosive environments, plastics, rubber or moisture, while precision and high surface quality are also required.
Properties of 1.2083
🛡️ High corrosion resistance
Its chromium content of around 14% provides excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for plastic moulds and wet environments.
🔩 Good hardness after hardening (48–54 HRC)
Stable martensitic strength for moulds and fine tools.
✨ Excellent polishability
Suitable for mirror-polished surfaces, optical parts and precision moulds.
🧼 Resistance to acids and chemicals
Well suited for processing plastics containing halogens, PVC, rubber and aggressive compounds.
📏 Good dimensional stability
Only minimal distortion during hardening, making it suitable for precise parts with tight tolerances.
Chemical composition of 1.2083 (X40Cr14)
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| C | 0.36 – 0.43 |
| Cr | 12.50 – 14.50 |
| Mn | ≤ 1.00 |
| Si | ≤ 1.00 |
| P | ≤ 0.040 |
| S | ≤ 0.030 |
Typical applications of 1.2083
🧩 Plastic moulds
- moulds for aggressive plastic materials
- moulds for PVC, rubber and silicone
- inserts and core components
✨ Optical and highly polished moulds
- transparent plastic parts
- precision surfaces with mirror finish
⚙️ Mechanical engineering
- corrosion-resistant knives and cutting parts
- fine mechanical components
- measuring fixtures
🛡️ Parts exposed to moisture and chemicals
- sliding and moving elements
- small precision components
Heat treatment (guideline values)
| Process | Temperature | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Soft annealing | 740 – 800 °C | hardness approx. 200 HB |
| Hardening (austenitising) | 1000 – 1050 °C | oil / air |
| Tempering | 150 – 250 °C | target: 48–54 HRC |
| Nitriding | 480 – 520 °C | improves service life and wear resistance |
| Preheating | 750 – 800 °C | recommended before hardening |
Mechanical properties
- Hardness after hardening: 48–54 HRC
- Hardness in annealed condition: approx. 200 HB
- High corrosion resistance
- Excellent polishability
- Good balance of hardness and toughness
