How To Find the Right Tool and Die Maker

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Tool and die makers are some of the most skilled workers in precision manufacturing; they craft tools and metal forms needed for stamping and other forging operations. The work of a tool and die maker entails analyzing design specifications cutting and shaping metal, assembling parts, and testing completed products for use in manufacturing facilities.

Making a good product starts with having the tools fit for the job. So, to help you acquire the best and most appropriate gear for your needs, this article will help you know what to look for in a tool and die maker.

What Makes a Good Tool and Die Maker?

Most professional tool and die makers undergo formal technical education programs and apprenticeships, allowing them to develop the expertise necessary to adequately serve clients. The following are the fundamental skills you should look for in tool and die makers:

Displays a Proficiency in Math

Tool and die makers should be proficient in using and understanding geometry equations and theories to calculate the dimensions of the products and machine parts. They should also have an eye for numerical detail to ensure precision and accuracy in their calculations and work.

Possesses Excellent Dexterity

Because tool and die makers are considered artisans, they should be good at performing tasks using their hands. For example, tool and die makers use dexterity skills to operate machinery by hand or computer.

Shows an Understanding of Blueprints

Tool and die makers are relied on to create new products, which is why they need the necessary skills and knowledge to read and understand a blueprint. In addition, they should be familiar enough with instruction manual jargon and other trade-specific concepts to efficiently operate, maintain, and repair machines and other equipment.

Possesses Great Analytical Skills

Analytical skills are a must for tool and die makers since these will allow them to examine machine parts and tools for quality assurance, make logical decisions on processes, and troubleshoot manufacturing hurdles.

Knowledgeable About Welding

Tool and die makers also need to know about welding. These craftsmen use welding techniques to weld parts together to complete their assembly after creating machine parts and tools. They also utilize welding to correct errors in their designs.

Certifications of a Tool and Die Maker

There are three certifications tool and die makers can pursue in their careers. These help prove whether a tool and die maker have passed the necessary tests and have undergone the required apprenticeship and ample work experience.

Master of Die Casting Tooling Certification

The North American Die Casting Association awards this merit according to three levels, each focusing on a more nuanced understanding of die casting. The first level requires a tool and die maker to pass an exam and spend a specific amount of time in an apprenticeship. In addition, tool and die makers need to retake exams every three years for this certification to remain valid.

Certified Machine Tool Sales Engineer Certification

The Certified Machine Tool Sales Engineer certification is a nationally recognized program that recognizes tool and die makers who possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform effectively as machine tool sales engineers. So, having this certification allows the tool and die makers to take on more responsibilities.

Master Engine Machinist Certification

The Master Engine Machinist requires tool and die makers to be knowledgeable about engines. To earn this recognition, they must pass a three-part exam on cleaning, inspecting, repairing, and assembling standard and diesel automotive engines. This certification must also be renewed every five years to retain validity.

Find Your Master Tool Makers at Evans

Evans Tool & Die has trained and apprenticed master tool makers for decades. We employ around 20 master tool makers who create dies, molds, machine tools, cutting tools, and other tools used for manufacturing. With over 200 years of combined work experience, 75 years in business, woman-owned and an ISO 9001:2015 certification, we can provide precision custom tool and die design services that achieve tolerances of less than 0.001 of an inch.

Request a quote for our services today!

Understanding Tool And Die Engineering And Manufacturing What Is a Tool and Die Maker?