Starrett 54650 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 3/8x4x36 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 54650 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar intended for toolmakers, die makers, and machinist shops requiring close-tolerance steel in the annealed or pre-hardened condition. Measuring 0.375 inches thick, 4 inches wide, and 36 inches long, this flat stock ships in a single piece at 17.59 pounds. A2 tool steel is an air-hardening, medium-alloy cold-work steel known for its dimensional stability during heat treatment and good wear resistance. Thickness tolerance is held to plus or minus 0.001 inches, making this stock suitable for applications where precise fitment before grinding is critical.

This flat stock is used in the fabrication of dies, punches, gauges, forming tools, and precision fixtures in both job-shop and production environments. It is appropriate for applications where the steel will be finish-ground to final dimension after heat treat. The 36-inch length accommodates a wide range of blanking and machining layouts, and the 4-inch width suits medium to large tooling blanks. Licensed machinists, toolmakers, and die setters are the typical end users.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel for stable, low-distortion heat treatment
• Thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches for consistent pre-grind stock removal
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches
• Length tolerance of plus 0.25 inches
• Squareness held to 0.003 inches per inch on all edges
• Square tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches

Compatibility

Designed as a standard A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock blank suitable for machining, grinding, and heat-treating operations typical of cold-work tooling applications.

Installation Notes

Cutting, grinding, and machining of tool steel should be performed by qualified toolmakers or machinists using appropriate coolant to prevent edge hardening during fabrication. Heat treatment of A2 steel requires controlled atmosphere or vacuum furnace equipment and should follow established AISI A2 austenitizing and air-quench procedures. Always allow stock to reach ambient temperature before measuring to final tolerance. Secure workpiece properly before any sawing or milling operation to prevent movement under cutting load.