Starrett 56497 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 5/8x1x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 56497 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar intended for toolmakers, machinists, and die makers who require tight-tolerance stock for punches, dies, gauges, and general toolroom work. The bar measures 5/8 inch thick, 1 inch wide, and 18 inches long, with a thickness tolerance of +/- 0.001 inch and a squareness tolerance of +/- 0.001 inch. Width tolerance is held to + 0.000 to 0.005 inch, and length tolerance is + 0.250 inch. AISI A2 tool steel offers excellent dimensional stability after heat treatment, making it a dependable choice where consistent hardened geometry is critical.

This flat stock is suited for low- to medium-production tooling applications in machine shops, tool-and-die facilities, and maintenance departments. The 18-inch length provides enough material to machine multiple smaller components or one mid-length tool blank from a single piece. A2 air-hardening material is commonly specified where oil-hardening grades present distortion concerns, particularly in thin cross-sections or close-tolerance work.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel for minimal distortion during heat treatment
• Thickness held to +/- 0.001 inch tolerance for close-tolerance toolroom applications
• Width tolerance of + 0.000 to 0.005 inch for consistent fit in die sets and fixtures
• Squareness tolerance of +/- 0.001 inch for reliable reference surfaces
• 18-inch length provides flexibility for multiple part blanks
• Ready for machining, grinding, and subsequent hardening operations

Compatibility

Designed as a standard A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock blank suitable for toolroom, die-making, and general precision machining applications requiring AISI A2 material specification.

Installation Notes

Machining and heat treatment of tool steel should be performed by qualified machinists or toolmakers familiar with AISI A2 specifications. Always follow applicable shop safety practices when cutting, grinding, or heat-treating tool steel, including the use of appropriate PPE. Hardening and tempering procedures should comply with the material manufacturer's recommended thermal cycles. Do not attempt to weld A2 tool steel without consulting the appropriate welding procedure for tool steels.