Value Collection NS86232204 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock

Product Description

The VALUE COLLECTION NS86232204 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar intended for toolmaking, die work, jig construction, and precision machining applications. Measuring 0.5 inches thick, 2 inches wide, and 18 inches long, this bar is ground and finished to tight tolerances, with thickness held to plus or minus 0.001 inches and length held to plus or minus 0.062 inches. A2 tool steel offers excellent dimensional stability during heat treatment, making it a reliable choice when distortion control is critical after hardening. Machinists, tool-and-die makers, and fabricators working in job shops and production environments are the primary installers and users of this material.

This flat stock is suited to a wide range of toolmaking and fabrication tasks where a balance of wear resistance and toughness is required. Common applications include punches, dies, gauges, forming tools, and precision fixtures. The 18-inch length and 2-inch width make it practical for single-piece tool blanks or for cutting multiple smaller blanks from one bar. The air-hardening characteristic of A2 steel reduces quench distortion compared to oil-hardening grades, which is a practical advantage when holding tight final dimensions after heat treatment.

Key Features

• A2 air-hardening tool steel for reduced distortion during heat treatment
• Thickness tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches for precision fitment
• Width tolerance of plus 0.000 to minus 0.005 inches
• Length tolerance of plus or minus 0.062 inches
• Square tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches
• Ready-to-machine flat stock format suitable for blanks, dies, and gauges

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose A2 tool steel flat bar suitable for toolmaking, die making, and precision machining applications where air-hardening steel stock is specified.

Installation Notes

Cutting and machining of tool steel flat stock should be performed by qualified machinists or tool-and-die makers using appropriate cutting tools and speeds for the material grade. Heat treatment, including hardening and tempering, should follow established procedures for AISI A2 tool steel and be performed by qualified personnel or a certified heat-treating facility. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment when sawing, grinding, or machining steel bar stock. Verify final dimensions after any heat treatment cycle before committing the blank to finish grinding or final machining.