Starrett 57218 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 0.75x4x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57218 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar intended for toolmakers, machinists, and die makers who need a reliable, ground-flat starting blank for punches, dies, fixtures, and precision tooling components. Manufactured to AISI A2 specification, this flat stock measures 0.75 inches thick, 4 inches wide, and 18 inches long with tightly controlled tolerances across all dimensions. A2 tool steel offers good dimensional stability during heat treatment and moderate toughness, making it a practical choice for medium-run tooling applications where consistent hardness and wear resistance after air hardening are required.

This flat stock is suited for machine shops, tool and die operations, and maintenance departments working on fabricating or refurbishing tooling. Typical uses include blanking dies, form dies, gauges, and shear blades. The 18-inch length provides enough stock to yield multiple tool blanks from a single piece, reducing material waste during layout and rough machining operations. Its pre-ground flat surfaces minimize initial stock removal before heat treatment.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel for good dimensional stability during heat treatment
• 0.75 inches thick x 4 inches wide x 18 inches long — ready-to-machine flat stock blank
• Thickness tolerance of +0.010 to +0.015 inches for consistent stock removal planning
• Width tolerance of +0.010 to +0.015 inches
• Length tolerance of +0.25 inches
• Square tolerance of +0.010 to +0.015 inches ensures reliable fixturing reference surfaces

Compatibility

Designed as a standard AISI A2 tool steel flat stock blank suitable for use in tool and die, punch and die, and precision fixture fabrication applications where air-hardening steel stock is specified.

Installation Notes

Machining and heat treatment of A2 tool steel should be performed by qualified toolmakers or machinists familiar with tool steel handling procedures. Follow the material manufacturer and applicable shop safety guidelines when sawing, grinding, or milling. Heat treatment including hardening and tempering should be performed in a controlled atmosphere or vacuum furnace to minimize decarburization. Always allow the workpiece to reach ambient temperature before performing finish-grinding operations after hardening.