959T-045-1 - H-13 Tool Steel TIG Rod .045 - Hot Work Die Repair Alloy

Premium H-13 Tool Steel TIG Rod for Industrial Die Repair

The Josef Gas H-13 Tool Steel TIG Rod (.045" diameter) is a high-performance welding consumable designed specifically for the repair and fabrication of hot work tooling. Manufactured from a chromium-molybdenum-vanadium alloy, this rod is engineered to withstand the extreme conditions found in die casting, forging, and extrusion industries. Its chemical composition ensures a weld deposit that maintains high hardness and strength even at elevated temperatures, making it indispensable for extending the service life of expensive industrial molds and dies.

One of the primary challenges in repairing hot work tools is thermal fatigue, often referred to as "heat checking." This H-13 alloy is formulated to provide exceptional resistance to thermal shock, reducing the likelihood of surface cracking during rapid heating and cooling cycles. The .045-inch diameter offers precision control for welders working on fine details, edges, or smaller cavities within a mold, allowing for accurate buildup without excessive heat input that could distort the base material.

This filler metal produces a deposit that is both machinable and heat-treatable. In its as-welded condition, it typically achieves a hardness range of 50-55 HRC, providing immediate wear resistance. However, for optimal performance, the welded component can be tempered to match the hardness of the base tool steel. The rod is supplied in a 36-inch cut length, packaged in a durable tube to prevent contamination and moisture absorption, ensuring that every weld meets the rigorous quality standards required in tool and die maintenance.

Key Industrial Applications

• Die Casting: Repairing washed-out gates, runners, and cavities in aluminum and zinc die casting molds.


• Forging: Rebuilding worn impression dies and hammer dies subject to high impact and heat.


• Extrusion: Restoring dummy blocks, mandrels, and extrusion dies.


• Plastic Injection: Repairing parting lines and shut-off surfaces on high-hardness molds.