Starrett 57498 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 3/32x1/2x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57498 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die making, and precision machining applications. It is supplied in an annealed condition, ready for machining and finishing before heat treatment. The bar measures 3/32 inches thick, 1/2 inch wide, and 18 inches long, weighing 0.24 pounds. Tight tolerances are held throughout: thickness tolerance is plus or minus 0.001 inches, width tolerance is plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches, and length tolerance is plus 0.250 inches. A2 tool steel offers good dimensional stability during air-hardening, making it a widely used choice for punches, dies, gauges, and similar precision tooling components.

This flat stock is suited for machine shops, tool and die shops, and maintenance departments that fabricate or replace tooling in-house. The 18-inch length allows for multiple blanks to be cut from a single piece, minimizing scrap when producing small to medium-sized tools. Its annealed condition allows straightforward machining with standard HSS or carbide tooling before hardening. Machinists and toolmakers working in manufacturing, metalworking, and industrial maintenance environments are the primary users of this stock.

Key Features

• A2 air-hardening tool steel for excellent dimensional stability during heat treatment
• Thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches for precise fitment in tooling applications
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches
• Length tolerance of plus 0.250 inches allows for facing and squaring to final dimension
• Square tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches ensures flat, true stock
• Supplied in annealed condition for ease of machining prior to hardening

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock suitable for fabricating punches, dies, gauges, blades, and other precision tooling components where dimensional stability during heat treatment is required.

Installation Notes

Cutting, grinding, and machining of tool steel flat stock should be performed by qualified machinists or toolmakers using appropriate equipment and personal protective equipment. All heat treatment, including hardening and tempering, should follow established metallurgical procedures for A2 tool steel and be performed by qualified personnel. Secure the workpiece properly before any cutting operation to prevent movement. Consult applicable shop safety standards and equipment manufacturer guidelines throughout fabrication.