Starrett 57550 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 0.125x3x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57550 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar intended for toolmakers, machinists, and die makers who require a dimensionally consistent blank for fabricating punches, dies, gauges, and cutting tools. It measures 0.125 inches thick, 3 inches wide, and 18 inches long, with a shipping weight of 1.91 pounds. A2 tool steel offers a balanced combination of wear resistance, toughness, and dimensional stability during air-hardening heat treatment, making it a widely used choice for production tooling and precision fixtures in both job shop and manufacturing environments.

This flat stock is suited for applications where a machinable, pre-cut blank reduces setup time before final grinding and heat treating. Typical uses include blanking dies, form tools, master gauges, and template stock. The bar ships in an annealed or pre-hardened condition standard for A2 flat stock, allowing conventional machining prior to heat treat. It is appropriate for both light-production and one-off tooling work in machine shops, tool rooms, and maintenance departments.

Key Features

• A2 air-hardening tool steel per AISI material specification — stable dimensions during heat treatment
• Thickness: 0.125 inches with a tolerance of +0.010 to +0.015 inches
• Width: 3 inches with a tolerance of +0.010 to +0.015 inches
• Length: 18 inches with a tolerance of +0.250 inches
• Square tolerance: +0.010 to +0.015 inches for consistent stock alignment
• Ready-to-machine flat bar format reduces blank prep time

Compatibility

Designed as a standard AISI A2 tool steel flat stock blank compatible with conventional toolroom machining, grinding, and air-hardening heat treat processes.

Installation Notes

Machining and heat treatment of A2 tool steel should be performed by qualified toolmakers or machinists familiar with tool steel handling procedures. Use appropriate personal protective equipment when cutting, grinding, or handling sharp-edged stock. Heat treating should follow established AISI A2 austenitizing and air-quench procedures and is typically performed by a qualified heat treat facility or experienced in-house operator. Always de-burr edges after machining before handling or storage.