Starrett 57304 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1/16x1-1/4x36 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57304 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar intended for tool and die work, jig and fixture fabrication, punches, forming dies, and precision machining applications. Manufactured from AISI A2 tool steel, this flat stock measures 1/16 inch thick, 1-1/4 inches wide, and 36 inches long, weighing approximately 0.92 pounds. A2 tool steel offers good wear resistance, dimensional stability during heat treatment, and moderate toughness, making it a reliable choice for tooling components that require air-hardening with minimal distortion. Machinists, tool and die makers, and fabricators typically work with this material in a softened or annealed state before hardening.

This flat stock is suited for light-gauge tooling applications in machine shops, tool rooms, and precision fabrication environments. Its 36-inch length provides enough material for multiple tooling blanks from a single piece. The 1/16-inch thickness makes it appropriate for thin punches, blades, stripper plates, and similar components. The material ships in its pre-hardened soft state and is ready for machining, grinding, and subsequent heat treatment to desired hardness.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel for minimal distortion during heat treatment
• Thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches for consistent stock removal planning
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches
• Length tolerance of plus 0.25 inches
• Squareness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches; edge squareness 0.003 per inch
• 0.92 pounds per 36-inch length for easy handling and inventory planning

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose A2 tool steel flat stock suitable for tool and die, punch and die, jig and fixture, and precision machining applications where air-hardening tool steel stock is specified.

Installation Notes

Machining and grinding should be performed while the stock is in the annealed condition prior to heat treatment. Heat treatment of A2 tool steel should be performed by a qualified heat treater following AISI guidelines for austenitizing temperature and air-quench procedure. Always wear appropriate PPE when cutting, grinding, or handling tool steel stock. Deburr all edges before handling finished tooling components.