Shape die options
Several shape die materials may be available depending on your shape wire drawing needs. The table below can be used to see which materials are available and the relative durability and price may help you determine the best material to use for your application. Please discuss your shape wire drawing needs with an Esteves expert to make sure you use the best and most cost-effective shape die.
| Nib material | TC | PCD | SSCD | ND |
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| Size range availability (1) | ||||
| Min. | .02362” [0.6 mm] |
.00157” [0.040 mm] |
.00472” [0.12 mm] |
.00472” [0.12 mm] |
| Max. | n/a | .9843” [25 mm] |
.0840” [2.150 mm] |
.0787” [2.0 mm] |
| Approx. relative durability (2) | ||||
| Non-ferrous | 1x | 50 - 500x | 17 - 33x | 17 - 33x |
| Ferrous | 1x | 8 - 70x | 4 - 9x | 4 - 9x |
| Approx. relative price (3) | ||||
| .0181” [0.460 mm] | 1x | 3 - 8x | 3x | 5x |
| .0394” [1.001 mm] | 1x | 7 - 8x | 15x | 15x |
| .3937” [10 mm] | 1x | 20 - 26x | - | - |
- Size is measured diagonally and is for indication only. The maximum and minimum size depends on the required drawing die profile. Esteves Group’s Drawing Die Wizard software can be used to check if a certain blank can be used, or ask Esteves Group for guidance.
- Relative durability is a comparison to tungsten carbide dies. The durability is for indication only and can differ depending on the drawn wire type, wire condition, lubricant used, and wire drawing conditions.
- Relative price is a comparison to tungsten carbide dies. The relative price is for indication only and can differ depending on the tolerance, die geometry, casing size and any other requirements.
