Starrett 54718 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 5/16x1-1/4x18in

Product Description

The STARRETT 54718 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die making, and precision machining applications. Measuring 5/16 inches thick, 1-1/4 inches wide, and 18 inches long, this flat stock is pre-cut to length and held to tight dimensional tolerances. The AISI A2 material designation indicates an air-hardening cold-work tool steel, which offers good dimensional stability during heat treatment and solid wear resistance after hardening. This stock is a working material, not a finished part — machinists, toolmakers, and die makers cut, grind, and machine it to final dimensions before or after heat treatment.

A2 flat stock sees heavy use in tool and die shops, maintenance departments, and precision fabrication environments. Typical applications include punches, dies, gauges, fixtures, and small machine components where hardened steel with controlled distortion during heat treat is required. The 18-inch length is suitable for a range of die and tool blank sizes. This bar is sold as a single piece and weighs approximately 2 pounds.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening cold-work tool steel for predictable heat treatment and low distortion
• Thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches for consistent stock removal planning
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches
• Length tolerance of plus 0.250 inches
• Square tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches
• Pre-cut 18-inch length reduces setup time for die and tool blanks

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock suitable for tool and die making, fixture fabrication, and precision machining applications requiring AISI A2 cold-work steel.

Installation Notes

Cutting, grinding, and heat treatment of tool steel should be performed by qualified machinists or toolmakers familiar with A2 steel handling. Use appropriate personal protective equipment when cutting or grinding. Heat treatment, including austenitizing and air-quench hardening, should follow the material supplier recommendations for AISI A2 tool steel and be performed in a controlled furnace environment. Always allow the bar to reach a safe handling temperature before proceeding with post-heat-treat grinding or finishing.