3/8X3X18 STARRETT A-2 FLAT STOCK

No. 497 Air Hardening – Standard

FEATURES:

• The 5% chromium content makes this steel especially desirable for punches and dies to be used in long production runs since it gives the tools far longer life. Up to 50% more pieces per sharpening can be produced than with oil hardening steel.
• Full-length identification eliminates confusion with other steels.
• Maintains close dimensional accuracy throughout the heat treating process. The wide 75° hardening range makes this virtually foolproof.
• High wear resistance is also ideal for punches and dies to stamp silicon, stainless steels, monel metal, and other types of abrasive material.

HARDENING:

• Wide hardening range of 1,700°F to 1,775°F, with 1,750°F recommended for most work.
• For heavier sections use the high side of the range.
• Heat uniformly throughout but do not soak longer than necessary.
• Cool in still air.
• No pre-heat is required if pack or atmosphere controlled furnace methods are used, but with the open furnace method a pre-heat of 1,450° F is recommended.

TEMPERING:

• A tempering time of two hours at 1,700°F to 1,775°F is recommended (quench – still air, Rockwell C – 63.5 to 65).
• For maximum toughness, double temper for two hours at each temperature recommended.
• Following table may also be used as a guide, depending on type of work:

– Light blanking punches and dies: 400°F to 425°F. – Heavy blanking punches and dies: 700°F. – Annealing: 1525°F to 1575°F. Furnace cool at no more than 50° per hour to 800° for maximum softness.

TOLERANCES:

• Thickness – ±.001".
• Width – Up to 8" .000/.005", 9" and over .000/.015", squares ± .010".
• Length – 18"+1/4" / 36"+5/8", Saw cut oversize to allow for finish cutting.
• Squareness – Edge All: .003 per inch, Finish: 35 microinch or finer.

NOMINAL ANALYSIS (AISI A2):

• Carbon – 1.00
• Chromium – 5.25
• Manganese – .60
• Tu

3/8X3X18 STARRETT A-2 FLAT STOCK