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Key Dies Inc.
Steel rule die cutting is a popular and inexpensive method used for trimming parts. Dies are made from pre-hardened and pre-sharpened steel, which is placed in a base in order to keep its form. Steel rule dies can be constructed from 2 point (.028" thick) to 6 point (.084" thick) and in heights ranging from .918" to 4". Rule pointage is determined based on the material to be cut. When care is taken to set up the die on a press, many thousands of cuts can be achieved from a carefully crafted steel rule die.
High quality steel rule dies are laser manufactured. A laser cut die will maintain accurate tolerances (+/- 010). In manufacturing a die, a steel rule is fitted into a pre-cut die board. Wood, Rayform, aluminum, and mild steel are some of the base materials that can be used as a die board base. Rubber strips or blocks on each side of the rule eases part removal. Rubber height and density will be selected based upon the material to be cut.
Center bevel rule is the most common type of steel rule and provides a long life in terms of wear. Certain applications may require a cleaner cut which can be attained by using a side bevel, or side "face" rule.
Some key items to consider when ordering a steel rule die include:
- Material to be cut
- Number of parts to cut
- Shape & design of the part
- Number of images per die
- Final part quality needs
- Press specifications
- Die base, rule, & ejection specifications
- Any extras or additional features
- Delivery Date
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