Progressive die tooling is used in progressive stamping, a highly efficient metal-forming process for rapid manufacturing. With progressive die tooling, all of the necessary dies are combined into one die set and installed into a single press machine. This tooling method can create highly complex and precise designs at fast production rates.
Automated operations with progressive die tooling are excellent for high-volume stamping projects. Hudson Technologies uses in-house tooling and stamping equipment to produce precision metal components designed to your specifications. Contact us with any questions or to learn more about our progressive die tooling services and custom capabilities.
What is Progressive Die Tooling?
Progressive die tooling, or prog die tooling, is used for progressive stamping projects and is a popular metal-forming process for custom components. In progressive die stamping , all the tooling needed for an individual project is compiled into a single die set. The die set is inserted into one press machine, where all operations will occur.
During production, a metal strip is pulled “progressively” through the press and stamped by each tool in the die set. With each stroke, the metal is stamped at each operation in the series. The final operation cuts the completed components off of the metal strip and ejects them from the machine.
Because all the necessary tooling is included in one press, the die set does not need to be changed between each operation. This significantly increases production rates, making progressive die stamping tooling an excellent solution for high-volume stamping projects.
Advantages of Progressive Die Tooling for High-Volume Stamping
Although progressive die tooling has a higher tooling cost than other custom tooling methods, automated operations mean that the per-part expenses are much lower. Simultaneous stamping in one press results in rapid production rates and reliable performance. This makes progressive die tooling an excellent process for high-volume stamping projects of over 50,000 units per year.
Benefits of progressive die tooling for metal stamping processes include:
- Automated processing
- Long-term repeatability
- Consistent precision
- Tight tolerances
- Increased ROI over time
- Simultaneous operations
- Can form highly complex parts
Custom Tooling Services from Hudson Technologies
Hudson Technologies is proud to operate over 130 metal-forming presses at our facility, allowing us to handle virtually all types of projects. Our extensive range of machinery and equipment helps us manufacture custom metal components for customers in any trade.
Along with progressive die tooling, we perform several tooling methods to meet your production needs. Additional tooling capabilities include:
- Stage Tooling: This method uses multiple tools on one press to form components. The tooling is changed between each stamp, resulting in numerous “stages” of operation. Stage tooling can create simple and complex geometries and is best for low-volume production runs.
- Rubber Pad Forming: With this style of tooling, sheet metal is pressed between a die and a rubber block. The rubber can be standard flat or machined in a die shape to expand design capabilities. Rubber pad forming is commonly used for low-volume production runs.
- Transfer Press Tooling: This process integrates all necessary tooling into one die set. After the sheet metal is inserted into a press, each component is separated during the first operation and transferred to each consecutive operation. Transfer tooling is ideal for high-volume production runs.
Metals & Materials for Metal Stamping Tooling Processes
Selecting the best material for your project is essential for your success. Our trained professionals work directly with you to understand your needs and specifications, and consider key factors including tensile strength, machinability, ductility, and weldability. We have experience working with a range of metals and materials, from standard metals like aluminum, stainless steel, and brass to specialty alloys such as Monel®, Hastelloy®, and Inconel®. Let our team help you choose the right metal for your requirements.
Die Tooling & Progressive Die Stamping Services from Hudson Technologies
Hudson Technologies has over 80 years of industrial stamping experience, making us your reliable source for progressive stamping and tooling needs. Our team of skilled professionals is prepared to support you from start to finish, making sure we meet every demand and fulfill every need.
Explore answers to Frequently Asked Questions or contact us to learn more, and a team member will happily assist you. Request a quote to begin your project today.
