DIN1.2311

2311 steel is a pre-hardened plastic mold steel that is part of the P20 family of steels. Here’s an overview of its characteristics and applications:

Composition:

   - Carbon (C): 0.28-0.40%

   - Chromium (Cr): 1.40-2.00%

   - Manganese (Mn): 0.20-0.80%

   - Phosphorus (P): ≤ 0.030%

   - Sulfur (S): ≤ 0.030%

   - Silicon (Si): 0.20-0.80%

   - Nickel (Ni): ≤ 0.30%

   - Molybdenum (Mo): 0.25-0.50%

Properties:

   - Pre-hardened: 2311 steel comes in a pre-hardened condition, typically at around 280-325 HB (Hardness Brinell) after pre-hardening.

   - Good machinability: It has good machinability in the pre-hardened condition, making it easier to machine compared to fully hardened steels.

   - Good polish ability: Offers good polishability, which is important for achieving smooth finishes on molded parts.

   - Good dimensional stability: Provides good dimensional stability during and after machining, minimizing warpage and distortion.

Applications:

   - Plastic mold applications: Used for making injection molds, compression molds, blow molds, and extrusion dies for plastics. Its pre-hardened state allows for shorter lead times and reduced machining costs.

   - Tooling: Suitable for manufacturing of jigs, fixtures, and gauges where wear resistance and good machinability are required.

   - Industrial applications: Found in various industries including automotive, consumer goods, electronics, and medical devices for producing plastic components and parts.

Heat Treatment: 

Normally supplied in the pre-hardened condition, typically around 280-325 HB. Further heat treatment may not be necessary unless additional hardness or specific properties are required for certain applications.

Weldability: 

2311steels generally have good weldability. Precautions should be taken to avoid excessive heat input and ensure proper preheating and post-weld heat treatment if required.

2311 steel is valued for its combination of hardness, machinability, and dimensional stability in the pre-hardened state, making it a popular choice for manufacturing molds and tooling in the plastics industry and beyond.