Toolmaking

Wire-cut EDM is an advanced technique for machining electrically conductive materials. The machine uses an electrically charged brass wire that follows a programmed path, generating sparks to precisely remove material from the workpiece.

We use this technique to “cut out” the various precision components that make up a progressive die tool from tool steel. The operator’s craftsmanship and the machine’s precision play a crucial role in the quality of the products made with these tools. This is exactly why we keep this capability in-house and leverage our knowledge to help you produce the perfect product.

CNC machining is a collection of advanced techniques we use in our toolmaking department to machine metal components with incredible precision.

CNC machines cut, drill, and shape metal parts with high accuracy, following carefully programmed instructions from our engineers. The result is components that fit perfectly and meet our exact design specifications.

Grinding is used in our toolmaking department to achieve a precise smooth surface or exact thickness (precision grinding). The CNC-controlled surface grinder uses the cutting edge of the grinding wheel across the workpiece until the desired finish is achieved.

The selected grinding grain determines the surface smoothness or roughness. Smaller grains create smoother surfaces. A characteristic of this grinding method is the high cutting speed combined with minimal material removal.

When steel with a minimum carbon content of 0.3% is heated above 800°C and then quenched in water, oil, or a salt bath, a very hard but brittle martensitic structure is formed. The resulting hardness depends on the carbon content—the higher the carbon, the harder the steel—and the percentage of martensite formed in the core, which depends on the critical cooling rate.

Once all components for a tool have been manufactured and inspected according to specifications, our toolmakers assemble the tool in the workshop. Together with the engineer overseeing the project, the tool is inspected and approved for test production. During this trial, the tool’s performance is tested, and it is assessed whether the products meet the customer’s specifications. These samples, along with accompanying measurement reports, are presented to the customer by the engineer and the commercial manager.