| With modular tooling, the basic die set – if there is one – becomes a single, reusable component of a complete system. The die set is purchased only once and used for all jobs. In keeping with the reusability theme, modular dies have reusable punch and die bushing retainers, each used to hold a series of interchangeable, reusable punches and die bushings. Unlike custom dies, these modular components are used on multiple applications to produce a variety of different stampings. The concept of modular hard dies is to reuse standardized, individual punching members – the die set, retainers, punches, die bushings and strippers are all reusable components. Many companies design their products to have the same punched features, i.e. the same holes, shapes, notches etc. If the punches and dies made for these features can be reused to produce a variety of different jobs, the resultant cost savings can be significant. Modular hard die system components are shared and reused to make many different subjects, even long after the job they were originally purchased for has been completed.
With modular dies, your tooling dollars are grouped into (3) basic categories: Capital Investment (Die Set, Holders, Gages, etc.), Tool Package (standard, reusable punches and die bushings, etc.) and Job-Specific (typically templates and any special tools). You may wish to purchase enough tools to permit setup of the next job while the first is in production. If your press area and selected modular system are large enough, it may even be possible to run more than one job per press cycle. |
