Starrett 57221 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1x2x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57221 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar measuring 1 inch thick, 2 inches wide, and 18 inches long. A2 tool steel is an oil- and air-hardening alloy known for its good dimensional stability during heat treatment and its balance of toughness and wear resistance. This flat stock is precision ground to close tolerances, making it suitable for toolmakers, machinists, and die makers who require consistent, reliable material for fabricating punches, dies, gauges, and cutting tools. The 57221 ships ready for layout, machining, or direct heat treatment without further pre-processing.

This flat stock is used in tool and die shops, production machine shops, and maintenance machining operations. It is well suited for applications where post-hardening dimensional change must be minimized, including blanking dies, form dies, trim dies, and precision gauging components. The 18-inch length accommodates most standard die-set and tooling applications without requiring a saw cut, reducing setup time in the shop.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel with excellent dimensional stability during heat treatment
• Precision flat stock form: 1 inch thick, 2 inches wide, 18 inches long
• Tight thickness and width tolerance of +0.010 to 0.015 inches for consistent fitment
• Square tolerance of +0.010 to 0.015 inches ensures perpendicularity for layout and machining
• Length tolerance of +0.25 inches — stock arrives at or above nominal length
• Ready for machining, grinding, or direct heat treatment as received

Compatibility

Designed as a standard AISI A2 tool steel flat stock bar for use in general tool and die fabrication, fixture building, and precision machining applications where air-hardening tool steel material is specified.

Installation Notes

Machining and grinding of A2 tool steel flat stock should be performed by qualified toolmakers or machinists using appropriate cutting speeds and coolant. Heat treatment to harden A2 steel requires controlled atmosphere furnace equipment and should follow established metallurgical procedures for AISI A2 alloy. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment when cutting, grinding, or handling tool steel stock. Secure the workpiece properly in a vise or fixture before any machining operation to prevent movement and ensure dimensional accuracy.