The die is the female component of a complete tool for creating work in a press.

A complete tool is also

referred to as one that consists of a pair of mating elements for creating work in a press.

Dies are classified based on the type of press operation and the method of operation. Cutting and
shaping dies are two different types of dies that can be used in various press operations. Cutting dies are
used to cut the metal. They shear or cut. Forming Dies alter the appearance of the blank without
removing any stock.

Depending on the method of operation. This criterion can be used to classify dies such as single
operation or simple dies, compound dies, combination dies, progressive dies, transfer dies, and multiple
dies. Simple or single action dies perform a single operation for each stroke of the press slide.
Compound dies allow for the simultaneous execution of two or more operations. In combination dies,
multiple operations can be performed at a single station. Combination dies differ from compound dies in
that they combine cutting and bending or drawing operations. A progressive or follow on die has a series
of operations. Transfer dies are mechanically fed from one station to another. Multiple or gang dies
produce two or more work pieces with each stroke of the press. A gang or number of simple dies and
punches are ganged together to produce two or more parts at each stoke of the press.

This section states the die materials used for the main parts of medium and large-sized dies. The punch
and die holder are used not only to secure the die to the press machine, but also to support the rigidity
of the die. They also adjust the die height and provide space for springs. It is made of SS400, S50C
(S55C), FC250, SKS3, and A7075 materials. Backing plates are used in three different places in a die. It
employs the SK3, SK5, SKS3, and S50C. Punch plates are used to hold small punches and are made of
SS400, S50C (S55C), SKS3, and SKD11 pre-hardened steel. Stripper plates are designed to have important
secondary functions such as pressing the material or guiding the punch tip, and they are made from
S50C, pre-hardened steel, SKS3, and SKD11 materials. Die plate is made of SK materials, SKS3, and
SKD11. Nested type plates are frequently used in dies. These plates are typically used for stripper plates
or die plates. It employs S50C, SKS3, SKD11, and SKH51. Punches are made of SKS3, SKD11, SKH51,
powdered high speed tool steel, and cemented carbide.