H13 tool steel now available for Markforged 3D printer

Markforged has begun to take orders for H13 tool steel for its Metal X 3D printer.

Markforged announced the availability of H13 tool steel for its Metal X 3D printer. The material is used for high-temperature applications like metal-forming tools, dies, punches, hardened insert fixtures, and molds with conformal channels.

The Boston-area machine builder, which reports that it has shipped more than 150 Metal X systems since March 2018, expects the new capability will be a “game changer” for companies that manufacture high volumes of plastic parts. It will “significantly [accelerate] the speed at which they can bring new products to market,” said a spokesperson.

H13 tool steel retains high strength at elevated temperatures, exhibits excellent red hardness, high toughness, and ductility, resists thermal fatigue, and has good abrasion resistance and excellent through-hardenability.

H13–also known as EN 1.2344 and SKD61 in Germany and Japan, respectively–is bookable beginning Dec. 12, 2018, at $229.99 per 1-kilogram spool. The company says it will ship no later than March 2019.

Metal X 3D printer from Markforged.