Unit Die Design

A unit die is a cost saving tool that has a standardized main die frame and replaceable cavity units.  These replaceable units are designed to be removed from the main die frame without removing the standard frame from the die casting machine.  The most common commercial types of unit dies are single and double unit holders. These types of dies are generally used for smaller parts, or a family of parts, with no slides or a minimum number of slides.

There are both advantages and disadvantages to be considered when using Unit Dies:

Advantages:

• Lower tooling costs
• Shorter lead times
• Potentially lower piece part costs

Disadvantages:

• Reduced flexibility in part design
• Limited size
• Possible problem moving tooling from one vendor to another without additional tooling costs

R&S Design will provide you with a complete unit die design. Unit dies are typically designed in the following sizes: 10×12, 12×15, and 15×18 inches, standard or heavy duty.