Starrett 57656 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1-1/4 X 1-1/4 X 18 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57656 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in the fabrication and machining of dies, punches, gauges, and precision tooling. A2 tool steel is an air-hardening, cold-work grade known for its dimensional stability during heat treatment and good wear resistance. This bar measures 1-1/4 inches thick by 1-1/4 inches wide by 18 inches long and weighs 7.95 pounds. Thickness, width, and squareness tolerances are held to +0.010 to 0.015 inches, and length tolerance is +0.25 inches. Machinists, tool-and-die makers, and metalworking shops use this stock as raw material for custom tooling components.

This flat stock is suited for shop applications where consistent cross-section and tight dimensional tolerances are required before heat treatment. Typical uses include blanking dies, forming tools, cutting blades, and precision fixtures. The air-hardening characteristic of A2 minimizes distortion during the hardening process compared to oil- or water-hardening grades, making it a common choice for complex tool geometries. It is supplied in the annealed condition, ready for machining prior to heat treat.

Key Features

• A2 air-hardening cold-work tool steel for reduced distortion during heat treatment
• Thickness: 1-1/4 inches; Width: 1-1/4 inches; Length: 18 inches
• Thickness, width, and squareness tolerance: +0.010 to 0.015 inches
• Length tolerance: +0.25 inches
• Supplied in annealed condition, ready for machining
• AISI Type A2 material specification

Compatibility

Designed as a standard A2 tool steel flat bar for use in general toolmaking, die-making, and precision machining applications where AISI A2 air-hardening cold-work steel is specified.

Installation Notes

Machining and heat treatment of A2 tool steel should be performed by qualified tool-and-die makers or machinists familiar with cold-work steel handling. All cutting, grinding, and EDM operations should be completed before hardening. Follow the steel manufacturer's recommended heat treat cycle for A2 grade to achieve target hardness. Proper personal protective equipment should be worn during all machining and heat treat operations.