Starrett 57648 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1x2.5x18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57648 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die making, and precision machining applications. Measuring 1 inch thick, 2-1/2 inches wide, and 18 inches long, this flat stock is manufactured from AISI Type A2 tool steel, a chromium-molybdenum alloy known for its dimensional stability during heat treatment and good wear resistance after hardening. The bar ships in an annealed condition and is ready for machining before hardening. Machinists, tool-and-die makers, and industrial maintenance technicians typically work with this material to fabricate punches, dies, gauges, and similar tooling components.

This flat stock is suited for job shops, tool rooms, and maintenance departments that require a readily machinable stock that achieves consistent hardness after air-hardening heat treatment. The 18-inch length provides practical workable stock for a wide range of tooling blanks without excessive material waste. The controlled tolerances on all faces make it appropriate for applications where pre-ground or close-tolerance flat stock reduces setup time on surface grinders or milling machines.

Key Features

• AISI Type A2 air-hardening tool steel for dimensional stability during heat treat
• Thickness tolerance of +0.010 to 0.015 inches for consistent stock removal
• Width tolerance of +0.010 to 0.015 inches on all flat faces
• Length tolerance of +0.25 inches allowing full usable length
• Square tolerance of +0.010 to 0.015 inches for accurate setups
• Ships at 12.65 pounds — suitable for benchtop and small shop handling

Compatibility

Designed as a standard flat stock blank compatible with conventional tool room machining, milling, turning, and surface grinding operations prior to heat treatment. Intended for use wherever AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock at 1 inch by 2-1/2 inch cross-section is specified.

Installation Notes

A2 tool steel flat stock is worked by qualified machinists and tool-and-die makers using standard metal-cutting equipment. Secure the workpiece firmly in a vise or fixture before machining. Heat treatment — including austenitizing temperature, quench method, and tempering cycle — should follow the material supplier specifications for AISI A2 and be performed by a qualified heat treater. Allow material to cool to room temperature before performing finish grinding operations.