What is A2 Tool Steel?
A2 tool steel is an air-hardened tool that is known for its versatility, non-deforming properties and high level of toughness. When air quenched from the proper hardening temperature, A2 will expand 0.001 in./in. of cross-section. As a 5% chromium steel, A2 tool steel has high hardness following heat treatment and demonstrates good dimensional stability that can be used in a variety of applications.
|
Carbon |
1.00 |
|
Silicon |
0.60 |
|
Chromium |
5.25 |
|
Vanadium |
0.25 |
|
Molybdenum |
1.10 |
|
Manganese |
0.60 |
Typical Applications for A2 Steel:
- Blanking Tools
- Punch Dies
- Trimming Dies
- Precision Tools
- Thread Roller Dies
- Molding Dies
- Extrusion Dies
- Woodworking Cutting Tools
Heat Treatment
This is the process of heating metal to an elevated temperature to obtain a change in properties of the metallurgical structure. The heat treatment for A2 is as follows:
|
Forging |
Annealing |
Preheating |
Hardening |
Tempering |
|
2100-1650°F |
1550-1600°F |
1450-1500°F |
1750-1800°F |
400-650°F |
How Do You Temper A2 Tool Steel?
On occasion, flash oil-quenching is used on larger sections of A2. These pieces are tempered immediately after they have cooled to about 150°F. Ideally, A2 should be tempered at 350°-400°F and held about two hours per inch of the greatest cross-section.
What is the Hardness of A2 Tool Steel?
Hardness tests determine the various properties of a specific metal, which includes its resistance to wear, toughness, and formability. Two widely used tests are Rockwell C and Brinell. Rockwell C is measured in the unit HRC, which is the measurement used below.
|
As hardened |
400°F |
600°F |
800°F |
1000°F |
|
63-65 |
60-62 |
58-60 |
57-59 |
56-58 |
Southern Tool Steel Stocks A2 in the Following:
- Decarb free*: Rounds, Flats, Squares, & Plate
- Drill rod in standard 36” lengths
- Flat ground in standard 36” lengths
*Decarb Free is material that has been ground top and bottom and is oversized to finish on the thickness or diameter. (Thickness or diameter oversize approx +.015 to +.030. Thinner material, less than 1 inch, could have more stock on the thickness. Width oversize approx +.030 to +.090, depending on the vendor.)
For further quesitons on our A2 Tool Steel Supplier contact us or check instantly for Tool Steel pricing and availability and view the variety of services offered!