Understanding Basic Die Components and Their Functions

A metal stamping die is a tool used to cut and shape a metal sheet once a press applies pressure. But when you take a closer look into what a die consists of and how it operates, it’s easy to get a bit tangled up in the weeds. We’re here to help you sort it all out.

Here’s a foolproof guide to some of the most essential die components and their functions.

Basic Die Components and Their Functions

This is by no means an exhaustive list of every part that could be placed in a die. It’s just a starting point to learn more about dies and how they function. If you have questions about a die component not mentioned in this article, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

1. Die Plates (Shoes, Sets)

Also known as die shoes and die sets, die plates serve as the foundation for where other die tools and components are mounted. They hold many of the other components on this list (punches, buttons, springs, etc.) in place.

Die plates are typically made from steel, but aluminum is a feasible option as well. It’s lightweight and can be combined with alloys for added strength.

2. Die Guide Pins and Bushings

Die guide pins work in conjunction with guide bushings to align the upper and lower die plates with accuracy. They are manufactured to tolerances within .0001” (also known as a “tenth”) to ensure precise positioning.

There are two main types of die guide pins: friction pins and ball-bearing pins.

· Straight guide pins are a tad smaller than their complementary bushing’s inner diameter.

· Ball-bearing guide pins glide on a sequence of ball bearings within an aluminum ball cage. This allows the bearings to rotate but prevents them from falling out.

There isn’t necessarily a “best” choice between these two types of guide pins. It just depends on what fits best within your die and what your goal is for your end product. Ball bearing pins are easier to separate die halves and have become industry standard because of their ease of use. Standard die pins still have their use in providing accurate guidance but are more difficult to separate from their guide bushing.