Service Failure of a Die Insert Made From AISI D2 Tool Steel

An AISI D2 tool steel insert from a forming die used in the manufacture of automotive components failed prematurely during production. Results of various analyses and simulation tests indicated fatigue failure resulting from improper heat treatment. The fatigue fracture originated because of a highly stressed condition produced by a sharp corner combined with low toughness from ineffective tempering. It was recommended that 25 other inserts that belonged to the same die be double tempered.