Using dies is a form of fabrication that combines technique, machinery and expertise. Various dies provide the means through which fabricators can produce workpieces that conform to the exacting specifications of their clients. One particular technique or type of die cutting is called precision die cutting.
What Is Precision Die Cutting?
This is the process of transforming rolls or sheets of non-metallic material into die cut parts including custom gaskets and washers. The material may be
* Abrasives
* Elastic materials
* Fabric
* Felt
* Filters
* Non-Fabric
* Rubber
* Synthetics such as silicone rubber
It is not merely the process but the characteristics of it that define it as precise. The technique involves and results in accuracy, speed and uniformity. It is effective and efficient in application on diverse component sizes as well as quantities. Moreover, one of its advantages – certainly one that appeals to manufacturers and fabricators, is its cost-effectiveness.
Advantages
This method of die cutting offers several advantages over other methods. Fabricator’s and manufacturers alike admire it for its
* Speed
* Consistency
* Uniformity
* Tight tolerance output
* Easy to achieve specifications demanded for punched hole radii and other part features
The advantages of this process can be achieved utilizing any of several types of dies. One of the most common employed is steel rule dies.
Steel Rule Dies
The dies are produced of steel. These are hardened steel strips or steel rules, hence the name of steel rule dies. These edges punch or cut sheet and/or web materials into a specified geometric shape. They perform excellently in certain die cut parts if the tightest tolerances are not demanded.
Other Options
Other dies common in precision die cutting are:
* Precision Steel Dies
* Compound Dies
* Progressive Dies
* Solid Milled Dies
* Matched Metal Dies
Each type of dies offers its own advantages and can be used in various applications including the following:
* Custom Gaskets
* Filter Media
* Insulation
* Membranes
* Vents
* Washers
* Wicks
They, in turn will find their way as a component in the following materials:
* Electrical insulation
* EMI/RFI shielding materials
* Membranes
* Plastics and film
* Pressure-sensitive adhesives
* Silicone membranes
* Solid elastomers
* Sponge and foam
Precision Die Cutting
If you want products to emerge with precision, continuity and speed, the answer is to turn to fabrication through die cutting. Using any of a specific type of die, fabricators can produce small or large components of regular or irregular shapes effectively and efficiently through a technique or method called precision die cutting.