Order Stainless Steel Bar Stock for Custom Machined Shafts

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To order stainless steel bar stock for custom machined shafts, specify the bar shape (round or hex), the alloy grade, the finished diameter or across-flats size, and the surface condition you need before machining. Send a drawing with the machined dimensions and tolerances so the bar is sized with enough stock allowance for your cuts.

Choosing between round and hex bar

Round bar is the natural choice for most shafts, bushings and pins because it turns evenly and needs the least material removed when the part is round. Hex bar suits parts that must transmit torque without a separate key, such as drive shafts, adapters and tool bodies, since the flats can be gripped directly.

When you decide, consider how the part will be held during machining and how it will sit in its final assembly. A hex section can save an operation on the right part, while a round section usually gives a cleaner finish with fewer setups.

Selecting the right stainless grade

The most common grades for machined shafts are austenitic types such as 304 and 316, which resist corrosion well and are widely available. Where higher strength or hardness is needed, martensitic grades can be machined and then heat treated, though they behave differently at the cutting tool.

Choose 316 for wet, marine or chemical environments.
Choose 304 for general indoor or dry use.
Ask about free-machining variants if you need faster cutting and better chip control.

Allowing stock for machining

Bar stock is supplied in standard sizes, so the diameter or across-flats you order should be the nearest size that comfortably covers the finished dimension plus machining allowance. Too little allowance can leave scale or work hardened skin inside the finished part, while too much wastes material and machine time.

Tell us the final dimension and we will advise a practical starting size. Exact allowances depend on the process and the tolerance you need, so we confirm them with you before cutting the bar.

Tolerances and surface condition

Standard bar is produced to general tolerances, which are fine for rough turning but may not suit a press fit or a bearing seat. If the shaft runs in a bearing or must fit tightly, specify the tolerance class and whether you need a drawn, ground or polished surface.

Ground or precision-drawn bar can reduce machining time and give a better starting surface for seals. Note any straightness requirement too, since long shafts can bend slightly during machining if the bar is not supported well.

What to send with your order

A clear drawing or sketch makes the order faster and avoids errors. Include the finished dimensions, overall length, tolerances, grade if known, quantity, and any heat treatment or surface finish required after machining.

Drawing or sketch with dimensions
Quantity and required length
Grade, or the environment the part will face
Delivery date and whether cut-to-length is needed

Working with us in Tel Aviv

Our workshop at 37 Rival Street handles stainless steel works made to measure, from cut-to-length stock through to finished parts. Since 1945 the workshop has produced metal components for private clients, contractors, architects and designers, and we apply the same care to a single custom shaft as to a larger run.

Send your drawing and we will review the stock size, grade and allowances with you before anything is cut, so you know exactly what you are getting.

Frequently asked questions

Can you cut bar stock to exact length for my shafts?

Yes, we can supply bar cut to your specified length so it is ready for turning or milling. Send the lengths and quantity with your drawing.

Which is better for a shaft, 304 or 316 stainless?

304 suits general dry indoor use, while 316 is the better choice for wet, marine or chemically aggressive environments. Tell us where the shaft will be used and we will recommend the grade.

Do I need to add extra material for machining?

Yes, the bar should be larger than the finished dimension to allow for cutting and surface removal. We will suggest a suitable starting size based on your final dimension and tolerance.

Can you supply stock for a tight-tolerance bearing seat?

Standard bar may not hold tight tolerances, so for bearing seats we recommend specifying the tolerance class and surface condition. We will advise whether precision-finished bar is needed.

Common mistakes to avoid

Ordering bar at exactly the finished diameter leaves no room for cutting and surface removal, and sending a sketch without tolerances often leads to the wrong bar condition. Always state the tolerance and surface finish you need before ordering.

Our recommendation

For shafts that run in bearings or must fit tightly, specify the tolerance class and bar condition at the start, not after machining. Choose a starting size with enough allowance so the finished part is clean and within your drawing.

Summary

Order stainless bar stock for machined shafts by specifying shape, grade, starting size with allowance, and tolerance, supported by a clear drawing.

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