Description

A2 tool steel is a cold work tool steel with good hardenability, good toughness, and abrasion resistance.

Applications

A2 is used widely in dies and die shapes, slitters, and in applications where abrasion resistance is important.

Blacksmith Applications

Blacksmiths often use it for slits, punches, drifts, and even hammers. Knife and blade makers may use A2 in some of their work.

A2 Forging Temperature

Forging should be between 1675° to 2200°F (912° to 1204°C)

A2 Heat Treatment

A2 Annealing Temperature

Annealing should be at 1600°F (871°C) followed by a slow cool in the forge.

A2 Normalizing Temperature

Normalizing should be at 1675°F (912°C) for a long period of time followed by air cooling.

A2 Hardening Temperature

Hardening should be at 1750°F (954°C) followed by air cooling. To prevent scale build up, stainless steel foil can provide a degree of protection. Allow to cool to 150°F (65°C).

A2 Tempering Temperature

Tempering can be between 300° to 1300°F (148° to 704°C) depending on desired hardness between 62 and 34.

Machinability

This machinability rate for A2 is 62, which is fairly good.

Weldability

This steel has good weldability for all conventional techniques, heat treatment should take place after welding.