DIN/W-Nr

DIN/W-Nr is the abbreviation for the German Industrial Standard (Deutsche Industrie Norm) and its accompanying Werkstoffnummer (material numbering) system, which together form the identification system for German steel grades. DIN stands for the framework of industrial standards developed by the German Institute for Standardisation (Deutsche Industrie Norm), covering steel classification, properties and test methods.
W-Nr is a seven-digit material number (e.g., 1.2312, 1.2080), with the first digit distinguishing the broad material category (e.g., ‘1’ for steel), and the subsequent digits refining alloy type, carbon content and heat treatment state157 . The subsequent numbers refine the alloying category, carbon content and heat treatment status.
In the field of tool and mould steels (e.g. 1.2080 for cold work moulds, 1.2312 for plastic moulds), the DIN standard defines the chemical composition and property requirements of the grade (e.g. DIN 17350), while W-Nr provides a unique digital identification, making it easier for the global supply chain to match the material with precision. The two are often used in conjunction with each other (e.g. ‘DIN 1.2312’) to form the core system of German steel grades.