Transfer die or progressive die: how to choose

Two ways to move the part

In a progressive die, the part stays attached to the strip and moves forward one pitch at each stroke. In a transfer die, the blank is cut first and the press transfer moves it between stations. In tandem dies, each operation is a separate die in a separate press.

Part size and depth

Small and medium parts that can stay on a carrier strip suit progressive dies. Parts that are large, deep, or need to be turned between operations call for transfer. The largest body panels run on tandem lines.

Volume and stroke rate

Progressive dies give the highest stroke rate and the lowest cost per part at high volume. Transfer dies run slower but handle larger parts and save material, since no carrier strip is needed.

Your press shop

The choice also depends on the presses you have: transfer presses, coil-fed presses or tandem lines. A die is always designed for its target press.

Our recommendation

We recommend the die type after the feasibility study, based on your part, volumes and presses. Send us your part data to start.