Drill Rod Tool Steels 02630853 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock

Product Description

The DRILL ROD TOOL STEELS 02630853 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die work, machining, and fabrication applications. This bar measures 7/64 inches thick by 1/2 inch wide by 36 inches long and is manufactured from AISI Type A2 tool steel, a chromium-molybdenum alloy known for its dimensional stability during heat treatment. Thickness tolerance is held to plus or minus 0.001 inches, making this stock suitable for precision tooling blanks and close-tolerance fixture components. Machinists, tool-and-die makers, and metalworking fabricators work with this grade regularly.

A2 flat stock in this size range is commonly used to produce punches, dies, blades, knives, and forming tools in job shops and production toolrooms. The 36-inch length provides enough bar stock to yield multiple shorter tool blanks from a single piece. Air-hardening characteristics mean this steel hardens in still air rather than requiring an oil or water quench, reducing distortion risk during heat treatment. It is appropriate for both general-purpose tooling and light cutting-edge applications where moderate toughness and good wear resistance are needed.

Key Features

• AISI Type A2 air-hardening tool steel for reduced distortion during heat treat
• Thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches for precision blank applications
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches for consistent fit in tool holders
• Square tolerance of plus or minus 0.003 inches for reliable right-angle reference
• Length tolerance of plus or minus 0.250 to 0.500 inches standard for bar stock
• 36-inch length allows multiple tool blanks from a single piece

Compatibility

Designed as a standard AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel flat bar suitable for toolroom, die shop, and machining applications requiring A2 grade material in a 7/64 inch by 1/2 inch cross-section.

Installation Notes

Tool steel flat stock is cut, ground, and machined by qualified tool-and-die makers or machinists using appropriate metalworking equipment. Eye protection, secure workholding, and proper blade selection for the specific material hardness are required. Heat treatment of A2 steel should be performed according to established metallurgical guidelines for AISI A2, including proper pre-heat, austenitizing, and controlled air-cool cycles. Do not attempt to weld or flame-cut hardened tool steel without appropriate procedures.