Starrett 57530 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 5/16x1-3/4x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57530 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die making, and precision machining applications. Measuring 0.3125 inches thick by 1.75 inches wide by 18 inches long, this flat stock is ground to tight dimensional tolerances, making it suitable for fabricating punches, dies, gauges, and fixtures that require predictable hardening response. A2 tool steel is an air-hardening grade, meaning it achieves hardness through controlled air cooling rather than quench media, which reduces distortion during heat treatment. Machinists, tool-and-die makers, and industrial fabricators work with this material in precision shops and maintenance environments.

A2 flat stock in this size is commonly used in short-run die sets, forming tools, blanking punches, and wear components where dimensional stability after hardening is critical. The 18-inch length allows multiple blanks to be cut from a single bar. The ground finish and close width and thickness tolerances reduce the amount of stock removal required before heat treatment. This piece ships as a single bar with no minimum beyond one unit.

Key Features

• A2 air-hardening tool steel offers excellent dimensional stability during heat treatment compared to oil-hardening grades
• Thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches supports tight-tolerance layout and machining
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to plus 0.005 inches for consistent stock removal planning
• Length tolerance of plus 0.250 inches provides usable overstock for part layout
• Square tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches ensures reliable reference surfaces
• Ground flat stock finish reduces pre-machining prep time

Compatibility

Designed as a standard A2 air-hardening tool steel flat bar suitable for use in general toolmaking, die fabrication, and precision fixture work wherever AISI A2 material specification is required.

Installation Notes

Cutting, grinding, and machining of tool steel flat stock should be performed using tooling rated for hardened or semi-hardened ferrous materials. Heat treatment of A2 tool steel should follow the material manufacturer hardening and tempering guidelines and is typically performed by a qualified heat treater. Allow the bar to reach thermal equilibrium before precision layout work. Use appropriate personal protective equipment when cutting or grinding tool steel.