Starrett 57596 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 5/16x8x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57596 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock blank used in tool and die making, jig building, fixture fabrication, and precision machining applications. Measuring 0.3125 inches thick, 8 inches wide, and 18 inches long, this flat stock is supplied in the annealed condition and is ready for machining prior to heat treatment. A2 tool steel offers good toughness and dimensional stability during air-hardening, making it a practical choice where moderate wear resistance and minimal distortion on heat treat are required. At 12.75 pounds, this is a substantial blank suited for demanding shop work.

This flat stock is intended for use by tool and die makers, machinists, and moldmakers working in production or job-shop environments. Typical applications include punches, dies, forming tools, gauges, and custom tooling components. The 8-inch width and 18-inch length provide sufficient material for a wide range of tooling geometries without requiring additional welding or joining. The blank is machined to close tolerances out of the supplier facility, reducing setup time before final shaping and heat treatment.

Key Features

• A2 air-hardening tool steel per AISI specification — good toughness with low distortion on heat treat
• Dimensions: 0.3125 inches thick, 8 inches wide, 18 inches long
• Thickness tolerance: +0.010 to +0.015 inches
• Width tolerance: +0.010 to +0.015 inches
• Length tolerance: +0.25 inches
• Square tolerance: +0.010 to +0.015 inches
• Supplied in annealed condition for machinability prior to hardening

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose A2 tool steel flat stock blank for use in tool and die, mold, fixture, and precision machining applications where an air-hardening steel is specified.

Installation Notes

Machining and heat treatment of A2 tool steel flat stock should be performed by qualified tool and die makers or machinists familiar with tool steel handling practices. All rough machining should be completed prior to hardening and tempering cycles. Follow the material manufacturer's recommended heat treatment parameters for A2 tool steel, including proper soak times and tempering temperatures, to achieve target hardness without cracking. Personal protective equipment appropriate for machine shop operations is required throughout handling, cutting, and grinding.