A tool made by a tool and die maker probably had a hand in producing almost everything around you. But what exactly is a tool and die maker?
Ultimately, a tool and die maker is a specialized machinist. More specifically, they work with machinists to keep manufacturing machines running smoothly. Basically, toolmakers build the tools and fixtures, while machinists focus on production machine work, assembly, and fitting. Machinists essentially have to lay out metal stock, set up and operate machine tools, fit and assemble parts to make and repair dies, cut tools, jigs, gauges, etc …
Tool & Die Engineering Machine
Tools and Dies: What’s the Difference?
What is the difference between a tool and a die? In most cases, machinists use these two terms interchangeably. However, there is a slight difference between these two concepts.
Dies are a subset of tools which means that all dies are tools, but not all tools are dies. For instance, in the metal stamping process, a tool can be almost any mechanical device that cuts, forms, supports, or molds metals. Considering this, jigs and fixtures are tools. Dies, on the other hand, are only those tools that functionally change the shape of the metal.
Also, a die has a particular focus. It is a machine tool used in manufacturing industries to cut and/or form material to a desired shape or profile. Similar to molds, dies are generally customized depending on their purpose in manufacturing. There are numerous products made with dies, ranging from simple office supplies like paper clips to more complex pieces used in airplanes. On the other hand, tooling (or machine tooling) is the process of obtaining specialized components and machines needed for the full-scale manufacturing process.
Tools and dies are fundamental to ensuring durable goods during manufacturing production. Die-casting yields major cost savings in high-volume production processes, making it invaluable to businesses. There are many industries served by tools, dies, and machinists. Without the tool and die process, manufacturing and production companies around the world would be next to impossible.
LeClaire Can Help
At LeClaire Manufacturing, tool and die manufacturing is one of several solutions we offer for your production needs. We handle everything from the design and engineering to simulation testing to tool-making and repair.
Get in contact with LeClaire Manufacturing today and request a quote.