Press Working Terminology

A simple cutting die used for punching and blanking operation as shown:

1: Bed:

The bed is the lower part of the press frame that serves as a table to which a Bolster plate is mounted.

2: Bolster Plate:

This is a thick plate secured to the press bed , which is used for locating and supporting the die assembly. It is usually 5 to 12.5 cm thick.

3: Die Set:

It is unit assembly which incorporates a lower and upper shoe, two or more guide parts and guide part bushings.

4: Die Block:

It is a block or a plate which contains a die cavity

5: Lower Shoe:

The lower shoe of the a die set is generally mounted on the bolster plate of a press. The die block is mounted on the lower shoe, also the guide post are mounted on it.

6: Punch :

This is male component of  a die assembly, which is directly or indirectly moved by and fastened to the press ram or slide.

7: Upper Shoe:

This is the upper part of the die set which contains guide post bushings.

8: Punch Plate :

The punch plate or punch retainer fits closely over the body of the punch and holds it in proper relative position.

9: Back up Plate:

Back up plate or pressure plate is placed so that intensity of pressure does not become excessive on punch holder. The plate distributes the pressure over a wide area and the intensity of pressure on the punch holder is reduced to avoid crushing.

10: Stripper:

It is a plate which is used to strip the metal strip from cutting a non-cutting Punch or die. It may also guide the sheet.