60WCrV8 Steel | DIN 1.2242 Tool Steel | Nifty Alloys LLC 

What is 60WCrV8 Steel? 

60WCrV8 steel is a high-quality cold work tool steel known for its exceptional wear resistance, toughness, and hardness. Classified under standards such as DIN 1.2242, X60WCrV8, and AISI L2, this material is engineered for demanding tooling and die applications that require reliable edge retention and mechanical stability. Its alloy composition, which includes tungsten, chromium, and vanadium, provides resistance to abrasion and ensures long service life in high-stress environments. 60WCrV8 steel is widely used for manufacturing cutting tools, punches, dies, and shear blades where material performance and consistency are critical.60WCrV8 steel is a high-performance cold work tool steel engineered for demanding industrial applications. Commonly identified by its Werkstoff number, DIN 1.2242, and other designations like X60WCrV8 and AISI L2, this material provides an exceptional combination of high wear resistance, superior toughness, and reliable edge retention. Its balanced properties make it an ideal choice for manufacturing a wide range of tools and dies that must withstand significant operational stresses without failure. 

At Nifty Alloys LLC, we supply high-quality 60WCrV8 steel to meet the stringent requirements of toolmakers, engineers, and manufacturing facilities. The unique alloy composition, which includes tungsten, chromium, and vanadium, gives the 1.2242 material its robust characteristics, ensuring long service life and consistent performance in cold working processes. This material is particularly valued for its ability to be hardened to high levels while maintaining the structural integrity needed for punching, forming, and shearing operations. As a leading stockist in the UAE, we provide this versatile tool steel in various forms, complete with the necessary certifications to guarantee compliance and quality for your critical projects. 

Features and Characteristics 

60WCrV8 (1.2242) tool steel is selected for its distinct combination of features that deliver reliability and longevity in service. These characteristics make it a preferred material for a wide array of industrial tooling applications where performance under pressure is non-negotiable. 

• Excellent Wear Resistance: The formation of hard carbides from chromium, tungsten, and vanadium gives this steel exceptional resistance to abrasive and adhesive wear. This ensures that cutting edges remain sharp and forming surfaces maintain their integrity over extended use. 
• High Compressive Strength: 60WCrV8 can withstand extreme compressive forces without deformation. This is a critical attribute for tools used in punching, stamping, and coining operations, where the material is subjected to immense pressure. 
• Good Toughness and Shock Resistance: Despite its high hardness, 60WCrV8 retains a good level of toughness. This allows tools made from this steel to absorb impacts and shock loads without fracturing, making it suitable for interrupted cutting and heavy-duty punching applications. 
• Good Dimensional Stability: When properly heat-treated, 60WCrV8 exhibits good dimensional stability. This means the tool or die will retain its precise shape and size after hardening and tempering, which is essential for manufacturing components with tight tolerances. 
• Good Machinability in the Annealed State: In its soft annealed condition, 60WCrV8 steel is relatively easy to machine. This allows for the efficient and cost-effective fabrication of complex tool geometries before the final heat treatment process is applied.