1.2316 / X38CrMo16 – Corrosion-resistant tool steel for plastic moulds
Steel 1.2316 (X38CrMo16) is a martensitic stainless tool steel with an increased chromium content of around 16%, providing excellent corrosion resistance, good polishability and stable hardness after hardening.
It is mainly used for moulds that come into contact with moisture, aggressive plastics such as PVC, or chemically active environments.
Properties of 1.2316
🛡️ Very high corrosion resistance
Ideal for moulds operating in humid or aggressive environments.
✨ Excellent polishability
Allows smooth and mirror-like surfaces, making it suitable for transparent plastic parts.
🔩 Stable hardness after hardening (48–52 HRC)
Strong enough for mould inserts, core components and complete moulds.
🔧 Good machinability in the annealed condition
Before hardening, the steel can be machined accurately and reliably.
🧼 High chemical resistance
Resistant to acids, plastic fumes, PVC and rubber compounds.
Chemical composition of 1.2316 (X38CrMo16)
| Element | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| C | 0.33 – 0.43 |
| Cr | 15.50 – 17.00 |
| Mo | 0.80 – 1.30 |
| Mn | ≤ 1.00 |
| Si | ≤ 1.00 |
| P | ≤ 0.040 |
| S | ≤ 0.030 |
Typical applications of 1.2316
🧩 Plastic moulds
- moulds for aggressive plastics such as PVC, rubber and optical materials
- core components and mould inserts
- transparent and precision parts
✨ Optical moulds
- moulds for light guides
- transparent covers and precision moulded parts
🛠️ Mechanical engineering and precision parts
- durable parts exposed to moisture or chemicals
- stainless segments and bushings
⚙️ Shaped and polished components
- surface-critical shaped parts
- applications requiring high surface cleanliness
Heat treatment (guideline values)
| Process | Temperature | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Soft annealing | 750 – 800 °C | hardness approx. 200 HB |
| Hardening (austenitising) | 1000 – 1050 °C | oil / air |
| Tempering | 200 – 300 °C | target: 48–52 HRC |
| Nitriding | 480 – 520 °C | improves wear resistance |
| Preheating | 600 – 750 °C | recommended before hardening |
Mechanical properties
- Hardness after hardening: 48–52 HRC
- Hardness in annealed condition: approx. 200 HB
- High corrosion resistance
- Excellent polishability
- Stable mechanical strength
