Starrett 54688 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 0.75x3x36 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 54688 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die work, and precision machining applications. Measuring 0.75 inches thick, 3 inches wide, and 36 inches long, this bar is ground to close tolerances, making it suitable for applications where dimensional accuracy is critical. The AISI A2 grade provides good wear resistance and dimensional stability during heat treatment, and the air-hardening characteristic reduces the risk of warping or cracking compared to oil- or water-hardening grades. Machinists, tool and die makers, and industrial fabricators are the primary users of this material.

This flat stock is commonly used in the fabrication of punches, dies, gauges, jigs, and similar precision tooling components. The 36-inch length allows for multiple blanks to be cut from a single bar, reducing material waste in short-run and prototype toolmaking environments. It is appropriate for both commercial shop use and in-house maintenance tooling departments requiring reliable, consistent A2 tool steel in a ready-to-machine format.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel for dimensional stability during heat treatment
• Thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches for consistent stock removal calculations
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches
• Length tolerance of plus 0.25 inches
• Squareness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches, with edge squareness of 0.003 per inch
• Ground flat stock format ready for layout, machining, and heat treat operations

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose A2 tool steel flat stock suitable for use in toolmaking, die-making, and precision fabrication applications requiring air-hardening grade material.

Installation Notes

Cutting, grinding, and machining of tool steel flat stock should be performed by qualified machinists or tool and die makers using appropriate cutting fluids and tooling rated for hardened or semi-hardened steel. Heat treatment should follow AISI A2 guidelines and be performed by personnel with metallurgical training, as improper austenitizing or quench procedures can affect final hardness and dimensional stability. Always wear appropriate PPE when cutting or grinding tool steel bar stock.