Starrett 57531 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 3/8x3/8x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57531 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die work, and precision machining applications. Measuring 0.375 inches thick by 0.375 inches wide by 18 inches long and weighing 0.71 pounds, this flat stock is machined to tight dimensional tolerances throughout. Thickness and squareness are held to plus or minus 0.001 inches, width tolerance runs plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches, and length tolerance is plus 0.250 inches. A2 tool steel offers good wear resistance, minimal distortion during air-hardening heat treatment, and strong toughness, making it a reliable choice for punches, dies, gauges, and cutting tools. Machinists and tool-and-die professionals are the primary end users.

This flat stock is suited for fabricating custom tooling components in job shops, production facilities, and maintenance departments. The 18-inch bar length provides a practical starting blank for a range of tooling profiles. A2 material is commonly specified where dimensional stability after heat treat is critical and where moderate wear resistance is required without the brittleness of higher-alloy steels. The square cross-section simplifies setup and reduces milling time when profiling tool blanks.

Key Features

• A2 air-hardening tool steel with minimal distortion during heat treatment
• Thickness and squareness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches for precise machining
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches
• Length tolerance of plus 0.250 inches on an 18-inch bar
• Square cross-section simplifies fixturing and layout
• Weighs 0.71 pounds — lightweight enough for bench-scale tooling work

Compatibility

Designed as a standard A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock blank suitable for general toolmaking, die making, and precision machining applications requiring AISI A2 material specification.

Installation Notes

Machining and heat treatment of A2 tool steel should be performed by qualified machinists or tool-and-die professionals using appropriate metalworking equipment. Follow the material manufacturer's recommended preheat, austenitizing, and air-quench procedures for A2 steel to achieve the desired hardness and minimize distortion. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment when cutting, grinding, or handling tool steel stock. Inspect the blank for straightness and surface condition before beginning layout or machining operations.