Starrett 57490 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1/16x3/4x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57490 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die work, fixture building, and precision machining applications. Measuring 0.0625 inches thick, 0.75 inches wide, and 18 inches long, this flat stock ships in a ready-to-machine condition and holds tight dimensional tolerances throughout. The A2 grade designation indicates an air-hardening medium-alloy tool steel that offers good dimensional stability during heat treatment, making it a standard choice for blanking dies, punches, form tools, and similar components that require predictable hardening response. Machinists and tool-and-die makers rely on this material when they need consistent stock thickness and reliable alloy performance.

This flat stock is suited for job shop, maintenance, and production toolroom environments. It is appropriate for fabricating cutting tools, gauges, jigs, and fixture components in both prototype and short-run production settings. The 18-inch length provides enough material for most standard toolmaking cuts without excessive waste. The stock ships in the annealed condition, making it ready for milling, grinding, or EDM operations prior to heat treatment.

Key Features

• A2 air-hardening tool steel for predictable, low-distortion 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 0.250 inches
• Square tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches
• Annealed condition allows machining before hardening

Compatibility

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

Installation Notes

Cutting and machining of tool steel flat stock should be performed by qualified machinists or tool-and-die makers using appropriate cutting fluids and tooling rated for alloy steels. Heat treatment to harden A2 steel requires controlled atmosphere or vacuum furnace equipment and should be performed according to the alloy manufacturer's published heat-treat specifications. Always allow stock to reach a safe handling temperature before measuring or further machining after any thermal operation. Follow applicable shop safety standards for handling and storing tool steel stock.