Starrett 56506 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1/2x3/4x36 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 56506 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar intended for toolmakers, machinists, and die makers who require tight dimensional control before heat treatment. Measuring 0.5 inches thick by 0.75 inches wide by 36 inches long, this flat stock is supplied in the annealed condition and is ready for machining, grinding, and fitting prior to hardening. A2 tool steel offers good wear resistance and dimensional stability during air-hardening, making it a reliable choice for punches, dies, gauges, and similar toolroom applications. Thickness tolerance is held to plus or minus 0.001 inches, ensuring consistent stock removal during final grinding.

This flat stock is suited for precision toolroom use in both job shops and production tool-and-die environments. Typical applications include fabricating cutting dies, forming tools, drill jigs, and fixture components where hardened steel is required after machining. The 36-inch length provides sufficient material for most single-component tool applications or can be cut to yield multiple shorter blanks.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel for good dimensional stability during heat treat
• Thickness: 0.5 inches with a tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches
• Width: 0.75 inches with a tolerance of plus 0.000 to minus 0.005 inches
• Length: 36 inches with a length tolerance of plus 0.25 inches
• Squareness held to 0.003 inches per inch on all edges
• Supplied annealed and ready for machining prior to air hardening

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose A2 tool steel flat stock blank for toolroom fabrication of dies, punches, gauges, and fixture components requiring subsequent air hardening.

Installation Notes

Cutting and machining of tool steel flat stock should be performed by qualified machinists or toolmakers using appropriate cutting fluids and tooling rated for hardened or semi-hard steel stock. All heat treatment, including austenitizing and air-hardening cycles, should follow the material specification guidelines for AISI A2 tool steel and be performed by qualified personnel. Allow stock to reach room temperature before measuring or finish-grinding to final tolerance. Always use appropriate personal protective equipment when cutting, grinding, or handling steel bar stock.