Starrett 57493 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1/16x1.5x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57493 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die-making, and precision machining applications. Manufactured from AISI A2 tool steel, this flat stock measures 0.0625 inches thick, 1.5 inches wide, and 18 inches long and ships at 0.48 pounds. A2 tool steel is known for its dimensional stability during heat treatment, making it a practical choice for punches, dies, gauges, and similar toolroom components. Machinists, tool-and-die makers, and industrial maintenance technicians work with this material to fabricate or repair precision tooling.

This flat stock is suited for both prototype and production toolroom work where close-tolerance blanks are required before hardening. The air-hardening characteristic of A2 minimizes distortion during the hardening cycle compared to oil-hardening grades, which is a key consideration when machining to final dimensions before heat treatment. It is appropriate for light-duty to medium-duty tooling in job shops, maintenance departments, and production facilities requiring reliable stock dimensions.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel for reduced distortion during heat treat
• Thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches for consistent stock sizing
• 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
• Ready-to-machine flat stock at 0.0625 inches thick by 1.5 inches wide by 18 inches long

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose A2 tool steel flat stock blank for toolroom fabrication of punches, dies, gauges, fixtures, and similar precision components requiring air-hardening steel.

Installation Notes

Machining and heat treatment of A2 tool steel should be performed by a qualified machinist or tool-and-die maker familiar with tool steel handling procedures. Follow the material manufacturer's recommended hardening and tempering cycles for AISI A2 to achieve target hardness without excessive distortion. Proper eye protection and machine guarding are required during all cutting, grinding, and milling operations. Consult applicable shop safety standards before beginning any heat treatment process.