Starrett 57517 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 3/16 X 3/16 X 18 Inches

Product Description

The STARRETT 57517 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die work, punch fabrication, and precision machining applications. It measures 3/16 inches thick by 3/16 inches wide by 18 inches long and ships in its pre-hardened annealed condition, ready for machining before heat treatment. Tolerances are tightly controlled: thickness and squareness are held to 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 toughness and wear resistance with minimal distortion during air-hardening, making it a common choice for toolroom stock. Machinists, tool and die makers, and maintenance technicians work with this material regularly.

This flat stock is suited for shops and toolrooms producing custom punches, dies, fixtures, gauges, and wear components. Its small cross-section makes it practical for detailed toolroom work where stock removal is limited. The 18-inch length accommodates most bench and surface grinder setups without additional cutting. Because A2 hardens in air rather than oil or water, it is frequently selected for applications where distortion control during heat treat is critical.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel for minimal distortion during heat treatment
• 3/16 inches x 3/16 inches cross-section suitable for detailed toolroom and die work
• Thickness and squareness tolerance held to plus or minus 0.001 inches
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches for consistent fit in close-tolerance applications
• 18-inch length with plus 0.250 inch length tolerance
• Supplied in annealed condition for ease of machining prior to hardening

Compatibility

Designed as a standard toolroom flat stock for use in punch, die, fixture, and gauge fabrication applications requiring AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel.

Installation Notes

Machining of A2 tool steel should be performed in the annealed condition before heat treatment. Heat treating and hardening of tool steel should be performed by qualified personnel following established metallurgical procedures and applicable shop safety codes. Always use appropriate eye protection and secure the workpiece properly when cutting, grinding, or milling. Do not attempt to harden or temper this material without consulting appropriate material data and heat treat specifications from the manufacturer.