Value Collection 06090344 A-2 Tool Steel Drill Rod 17/32 in

Product Description

The VALUE COLLECTION 06090344 is an A-2 air hardening tool steel drill rod measuring 17/32 inch (0.531 inches) in diameter and 36 inches in length. A-2 tool steel is a versatile air-hardening alloy known for dimensional stability during heat treatment, making it a reliable choice for fabricating punches, dies, gauges, and custom cutting tools. Machinists and toolmakers stock drill rod as raw material that can be turned, ground, or milled to final dimensions before hardening. At 2.3 pounds, this rod is straightforward to handle and stage at a bench or in a stock rack.

This drill rod is suited for job shops, tool and die operations, and maintenance departments that need a readily available bar stock for in-house tooling fabrication. The A-2 grade performs well in applications that demand moderate toughness combined with good wear resistance after air hardening. It is commonly used in cold-work tooling scenarios where oil-hardening grades would warp or distort. The 36-inch length allows multiple blanks to be cut from a single rod depending on the finished tool dimensions required.

Key Features

• A-2 air hardening grade minimizes distortion during heat treatment compared to oil-hardening grades
• 17/32 inch (0.531 inches) diameter in a standard 36-inch length for flexible blank-cutting
• Tool steel construction provides the hardness and wear resistance needed for punches, dies, and gauges
• Ground to close diameter tolerances typical of drill rod stock for consistent fit in tooling applications
• 2.3 pound weight is manageable for bench setup and lathe or mill staging

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose A-2 air hardening drill rod blank for use in tool and die fabrication, machining shops, and maintenance toolrooms requiring 17/32 inch diameter tool steel bar stock.

Installation Notes

Cutting and machining of tool steel drill rod should be performed by qualified machinists using appropriate cutting speeds and coolant for tool steel alloys. Heat treating to final hardness should follow established A-2 tool steel protocols for austenitizing temperature, soak time, and air cooling procedure. Always wear appropriate PPE when cutting, grinding, or heat treating tool steel. Ensure all workholding equipment is rated for the forces involved when machining hardened or semi-hardened stock.