Starrett 56495 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 0.5x0.5x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 56495 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar intended for toolmakers, die makers, and machining professionals who require close-tolerance raw material for cutting tools, punches, dies, and precision fixtures. Manufactured to AISI A2 specifications, this flat stock measures 0.5 inches thick, 0.5 inches wide, and 18 inches long, with a thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches and a squareness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches. Weighing 1.29 pounds, it is sized for bench stock use and can be cut to length for individual tooling applications before hardening.

A2 air-hardening tool steel is widely used in shops producing stamping dies, forming tools, shear blades, and precision gauges. Its air-hardening characteristic reduces distortion during heat treatment compared to oil-hardening grades, making it a reliable choice for dimensionally critical tooling. This bar is suitable for both small job shops and production tool rooms where consistent raw material dimensions are essential to achieving finished-part accuracy.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel construction for reduced distortion during hardening
• Thickness: 0.5 inches with plus or minus 0.001 inch tolerance
• Width: 0.5 inches with plus 0.000 to minus 0.005 inch tolerance
• Length: 18 inches with plus 0.250 inch tolerance
• Squareness tolerance held to plus or minus 0.001 inches
• Ready-to-machine flat stock format for tooling and die applications

Compatibility

Designed as a standard A2 tool steel flat bar suitable for use in toolmaking, die making, and precision machining applications where AISI A2 air-hardening material is specified.

Installation Notes

Cutting, grinding, and heat treatment of tool steel should be performed by qualified toolmakers or machinists familiar with A2 steel handling procedures. Always follow appropriate shop safety practices when sawing or grinding tool steel, including eye and respiratory protection. Heat treatment should follow the material supplier guidance for A2 steel austenitizing and air-quench cycles. Finished tooling should be inspected dimensionally after hardening before placing into service.