Starrett 57321 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1/8x7x36 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57321 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar intended for toolmakers, machinists, and die makers who require tight-tolerance raw stock for fabricating punches, dies, gauges, and precision tooling components. Measuring 0.125 inches thick, 7 inches wide, and 36 inches long, this bar conforms to AISI A2 tool steel specifications. Thickness tolerance is held to plus or minus 0.001 inches, and width tolerance runs plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches, giving fabricators predictable starting dimensions before heat treating or final grinding. The bar ships at approximately 10.26 pounds.

A2 air-hardening tool steel is a general-purpose cold-work steel widely used in tool and die shops, metal fabrication facilities, and maintenance departments. The air-hardening characteristic means the material reaches working hardness by cooling in still air after austenitizing, reducing distortion compared to oil-hardening grades. This flat stock is suited to applications requiring a stable, machinable blank that can be profile-cut, EDM-machined, or surface-ground to finished dimensions prior to heat treatment. It is appropriate for both production tooling and prototype work where precise dimensional control is essential.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel construction for predictable hardening response and reduced distortion
• Thickness held to plus or minus 0.001 inches for consistent stock removal during grinding
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches allows direct use as reference or blanking stock
• Squareness edge tolerance of 0.003 inches per inch ensures flat, square reference surfaces
• Length tolerance of plus 0.25 inches provides sufficient facing stock for cut-to-length operations
• Full 36-inch length accommodates multiple tool blanks from a single bar

Compatibility

Designed as a standard AISI A2 cold-work tool steel flat bar suitable for use wherever A2 air-hardening flat stock is specified in tooling, die, and precision fabrication applications.

Installation Notes

Cutting, grinding, and heat treating of tool steel should be performed by qualified toolmakers or machinists familiar with A2 material handling requirements. Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye and hand protection, is required during sawing, milling, or grinding operations. Heat treatment should follow established AISI A2 austenitizing and air-cooling procedures; consult a qualified metallurgist or heat treater for production work. Deburr all cut edges before handling or storage to prevent injury and surface rust initiation.