TABLE OF CONTENTS Ten elements of die set information must be decided before a die set can be ordered:
Make or manufacturer
Type
Size
Material
Thickness of die holder
Thickness of punch holder
Type and lengths of bushings
Lengths of guide posts
Shank diameter
Grade of precision.
In selecting a die set from a catalog, first consider the dimensions from front to posts and from side to side. This is the die set area, or usable space, to which die details can be fastened. Next in importance is the thickness of the die holder and of the punch holder.
Selecting the material from which the die set is to be made will depend upon strength requirements. There are three choices:
Semi-steel
All steel
Combination in which the punch holder is semi-steel and the die holder is all steel.
In manufacturers' catalogs, the material of the die set is listed as either semi-steel or steel. Semisteel contains only about 7 percent steel in its composition and is considered to be cast iron. Semi-steel die sets are cast to shape and then machined. Some manufacturers may cast punch holders and die holders of Meehanite, which may be considered a high-grade cast iron.
When a large hole is to be machined through the die set for blank removal, it is considered good practice to specify a steel die holder. This prevents fracture of the die holder if it is placed...
