Most high quality steel rule dies are laser manufactured holding a +/- .010” However, Midwest Dies uses a newer technology that consists of using a two part die board and a precision cutting router. This allows Midwest Dies to hold tolerances of +/- .005”. This also allows two precision tight places to hold the steel rule in place compared to one that you get with a laser die.

A traditional laser die leaves one side of the board “blown out”. This allows wiggle room for the steel rule to move and doesn’t provide for a precision tight die board.

Midwest’s steel rule dies are created by two separate boards. By doing this we eliminate the “blown out” effect, providing twice the holding power and stability for the steel rule. As a result, we create some of the most precision dies in the industry!

When making a steel rule cutting die, steel rule is cut, bent, and placed into a pre-cut die board. Rubber is then used to help eject parts from the die. Rubber size and density will be selected based on the material that is cut out. Midwest Dies usually uses a standard center bevel rule which is the most common. It provides a long life when used properly in terms of wear. Specific applications will require different rule for certain cuts or tolerances and will be used when appropriate.