Starrett 57494 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 0.0625x2x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57494 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die making, and precision machining applications. It arrives in an annealed condition ready for machining, then hardens in still air after heat treatment — a key advantage for minimizing distortion compared to oil-hardening grades. This flat stock measures 0.0625 inches thick, 2 inches wide, and 18 inches long. Thickness tolerance is held to plus or minus 0.001 inches, giving machinists a reliable, tight-tolerance starting blank for punches, dies, gauges, and similar precision tool components.

A2 flat stock at this size is commonly used in job shops, tool rooms, and maintenance departments handling light die work and precision fixtures. The 0.0625-inch thickness suits thin punch blanks, shim-style tool components, and flat die sections where precise material thickness is critical to final part geometry. This bar is sold in individual 18-inch lengths, making it practical for short-run tooling or repair stock without committing to full-bar quantities.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel for reduced distortion during heat treatment
• Thickness held to plus or minus 0.001 inches for precision machining starts
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches for consistent fit in tool slots
• Length tolerance of plus 0.250 inches provides usable overage for facing operations
• Square tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches supports accurate layout and grinding
• Sold in single 18-inch lengths with no minimum order commitment beyond one piece

Compatibility

Designed as a standard A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock suitable for general toolroom use including punch blanks, die sections, gauges, and precision fixtures requiring tight dimensional tolerances.

Installation Notes

Machining and heat treatment of tool steel flat stock should be performed by qualified toolmakers or machinists familiar with A2 steel specifications. Before heat treating, ensure all rough machining and grinding operations are complete and parts are properly cleaned. A2 steel requires controlled furnace heat treatment followed by still-air quench — do not quench in oil or water. Post-heat-treat tempering is required; follow the material specification guidelines appropriate for the intended hardness range.