Starrett 54726 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 5/16 X 5 X 18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 54726 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar intended for toolmakers, machinists, and die makers who require tight dimensional tolerances and predictable heat-treat response. This flat stock measures 5/16 inch thick, 5 inches wide, and 18 inches long, with a thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inch, a width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inch, and a length tolerance of plus 0.250 inch. A2 tool steel is an air-hardening grade that offers good wear resistance with lower distortion during hardening compared to oil-hardening grades, making it a reliable choice for punches, dies, gauges, and precision tooling blanks.

This flat stock is suited for job shop and toolroom applications where stock is cut to length, ground to final dimension, and then heat-treated to working hardness. Typical uses include blanking dies, forming dies, trim dies, drill jigs, and fixture components. The 5-inch width and 18-inch length provide sufficient material for most single-component tooling applications without requiring bar sawing. The part ships as a single piece with a minimum order quantity of one.

Key Features

• A2 air-hardening tool steel grade — lower distortion on heat treat versus oil-hardening grades
• Tight thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inch for consistent stock removal when grinding
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inch maintains predictable fit in tooling setups
• Square tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inch supports accurate layout and fixturing
• Ready-to-machine flat stock format — no further milling required before layout and rough machining
• Weighs 7.94 pounds — suitable for benchtop handling in a standard toolroom environment

Compatibility

Designed as a standard A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock for use in toolroom, die shop, and precision machining applications requiring AISI A2 material specification.

Installation Notes

Machining and heat treatment of A2 tool steel should be performed by a qualified toolmaker or machinist following the material manufacturer's recommended preheat, austenitizing, and air-quench procedures. Secure the workpiece properly before sawing or milling to prevent movement. After heat treatment, allow the part to reach room temperature before grinding to final dimension. Follow applicable shop safety practices when handling sharp-edged flat stock.