3-D Die Design For A 3-D World

Manufacturing has evolved considerably in many aspects to satisfy cost and timing constraints. It’s fascinating to see how far most businesses have progressed in the last 20 years. It is especially true when it comes to machinery and equipment like CNCs, lasers, and waterjets. It has made die design and metal stamping much more precise. Even though these machines are faster and more accurate, one element of die design has been left in the past: its two-dimensionality.

And no regrets! You don’t want to be a business stuck with an abacus. Let’s look at how adding depth and texture to plain old dies can take your metal stamping to the next level.

What is a 3D Design?

A three-dimensional (or “additive”) design is achieved by adding material to a workpiece—usually layer by layer—until the desired shape is achieved. The advantage of additive manufacturing over traditional subtractive methods, such as milling or drilling, is that there is very little waste material generated in the process.

How Does 3D Design Technology Work?

A three-dimensioned die design software helps create a virtual model of the die on computer screens. It’s fully assembled as if it were a real, physical object. The software can even simulate how the die will function upon completion. The software allows you to look at the die’s sides and make changes before cutting the metal.

Some software even allows you to run the die in a press simulation. It also detects crashing and strip-feeding interference on your computer screen rather than when the die is complete.

What Are the Benefits of Using Die Designs?

There are many benefits of using three-dimensional die design software.

Detecting Problems in Time:

The most important benefit is that 3D die design technology can help you detect potential problems with the die before it is built. Looking at a 3-D model rather than a flat, 2-D, static print is much easier to envision a die design. Since you won’t miss the features that are difficult to spot on a drawing, you can avoid potential die problems.

Eliminate the Need for Physical Prototypes:

In the past, prototyping a die design was essential to detect potential problems. With three-dimensional die design software, you can eliminate the need for physical prototypes. By looking at a three-dimensional die model, you can catch errors and make changes beforehand. You can also maintain your quality standards by controlling the die design process from start to finish.

Reduce Design Time:

Who isn’t feeling the pressure to do more with less? Three-dimensional die design software will help complete projects in a fraction of the time it would take to create drawings by hand. Most experts claim that the design process speeds up by 30 percent.

Better Communication:

Another significant benefit is that you can share the virtual model with others involved in the project, such as the engineers or people building the die. This way, everyone can see what the final product will look like and how it will function.

It’s also helpful for training new employees on how to use the die. They can practice on the computer simulation before working with actual dies.

Conclusion:

If you feel your business could benefit from die design technology, make sure to contact a professional for more information. Whether for better communication or improving the design process, die design technology is a helpful tool for any business that uses metal stamping.

Cav Tool, serving Los Angeles, CA, is a leading provider of metal stamping services. We use the latest die design software to manufacture dies that meet our customers’ precise specifications.

Get a free custom quote today!

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