Starrett 57659 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1-1/4x2-1/2x18in

Product Description

The STARRETT 57659 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar sized at 1-1/4 inches thick, 2-1/2 inches wide, and 18 inches long. A2 tool steel is an air-hardening, cold-work die steel known for its excellent dimensional stability during heat treatment and good wear resistance. This flat stock is supplied in an annealed condition, ready for machining to final dimensions before hardening. Machinists, toolmakers, and die makers rely on this material to fabricate punches, dies, gauges, jigs, and other precision tooling components where tight tolerances and consistent hardenability are required.

This flat stock is suited for job shops, tool and die operations, and maintenance shops that produce or repair cold-work tooling. The 18-inch length and rectangular cross-section make it practical for bench machining, surface grinding, and EDM work. Its air-hardening characteristic reduces quench distortion compared to oil-hardening grades, making it a preferred choice when close tolerances must be maintained through the hardening process.

Key Features

• AISI A2 air-hardening tool steel for minimal distortion during heat treatment
• Thickness: 1-1/4 inches with a tolerance of +0.010 to 0.015 inches
• Width: 2-1/2 inches with a tolerance of +0.010 to 0.015 inches
• Length: 18 inches with a tolerance of +0.250 inches
• Square tolerance held to +0.010 to 0.015 inches for consistent stock removal
• Supplied in flat bar form, ready for machining and subsequent heat treatment

Compatibility

Designed as a standard cold-work tool steel flat stock suitable for fabricating punches, dies, gauges, fixtures, and similar tooling components where A2 air-hardening material is specified.

Installation Notes

Cutting and machining of tool steel flat stock should be performed by qualified machinists or toolmakers using appropriate cutting fluids and carbide or HSS tooling rated for tool steel. Heat treatment, including hardening and tempering, should follow the material manufacturer's recommended thermal cycle for AISI A2 and must be performed in a controlled atmosphere or vacuum furnace to prevent decarburization. Always wear appropriate PPE when cutting, grinding, or heat-treating tool steel. Consult applicable shop safety standards before beginning work.