Starrett 57653 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1x6x18 Inches

Product Description

The STARRETT 57653 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar measuring 1 inch thick, 6 inches wide, and 18 inches long. A2 tool steel is an air-hardening, cold-work die steel known for good dimensional stability during heat treatment and strong wear resistance. This flat stock is precision-ground to close tolerances, making it suitable for fabricating dies, punches, gauges, and tooling components. Machinists, tool-and-die makers, and maintenance shops use this material when reliable hardness and predictable heat-treat response are required. The bar ships at approximately 30.24 pounds, consistent with the full 1-by-6-by-18-inch cross section.

A2 flat stock in this size range is a standard choice for cold-work tooling applications in job shops, mold and die facilities, and industrial maintenance environments. The 18-inch length accommodates a range of custom blanks and die components without requiring additional saw cuts. The 6-inch width provides sufficient material for wide punch plates, strippers, and backup plates. This stock is intended for use in applications where moderate toughness and excellent size stability during hardening are more critical than maximum hardness alone.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel provides stable dimensions during heat treatment
• Thickness tolerance of +0.010 to 0.015 inches ensures consistent stock removal allowance
• Width tolerance of +0.010 to 0.015 inches for predictable finish grinding
• Length tolerance of +0.25 inches allows for face-squaring cuts
• Square tolerance of +0.010 to 0.015 inches supports accurate layout and setup
• Weighs approximately 30.24 pounds per piece at the listed dimensions

Compatibility

Designed as a standard A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock blank suitable for use in cold-work die sets, punch tooling, gauges, and general tool room fabrication where AISI A2 material specification is required.

Installation Notes

Cutting and heat treatment of A2 tool steel should be performed by qualified machinists or tool-and-die makers using appropriate equipment and safety practices. Always follow the material manufacturer's recommended hardening and tempering cycles for A2 steel; improper heat treatment can result in cracking or dimensional distortion. Use appropriate personal protective equipment when sawing, grinding, or machining tool steel. Grinding operations should include adequate coolant to prevent surface damage.