Die Set Specifications
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Yield Strength 400 Series Stainless Steel |
160,000 psi (1100 MPa) |
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Recommended max loading @ 50 % |
80,000 psi (550 MPa) |
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Recommended max force |
3510 lb (1.75 ton, 15.6 kN) |
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Typical force for quality pellets |
220-660 lb (0.01-0.3 ton 1-3.2 kN) |
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Die sleeve inner diameter |
6 mm (0.24 inch) |
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Die sleeve height |
12 mm (~0.5 inch) |
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Fillable die sleeve height |
8mm (0.31 inch) |
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Die sleeve outer diameter |
25 mm (~1 inch) |
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Assembled height (w/o powder)* |
29 mm (1.14 inch) |
Recommended max force = Is the maximum force you can put the die set under. This includes a 50% safety margin which is industry standard.
Typical force for quality pellets = This is the range we recommend using that will get you a great pellet and is much less than the recommended max force.
Each Die set Includes
| Item | Description | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plunger Rod | 1 |
| 2 | Sleeve | 1 |
| 3 | Base | 1 |
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Precision Made, Individually Inspected
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FREE DIE SHIPPING USA, UK & EUROPE
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Worldwide Shipping
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STAINLESS STEEL, MIRROR FINISH
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Superior Design
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HIGH TOLERANCE MACHINING
Description
This die set is for a 6 mm (0.2 inch), short length <6 mm (0.2 inch) pellets. The compact design and high strength heat-treated stainless steel means a higher force can be applied while pressing reducing the chance of plunger breakages.
Features of this die set are:
- Compact Design: Built for High Loads
- High Strength Stainless Steel: Heat treated to 160,000 psi
- Built in ejector sleeve
- Heatable up to 250°C (482°F)
Low profile pellet press die sets include:
- 1pc Die sleeve
- 1pc Plunger rod
- 1pc Base plate
Unlike our standard sets, ejector prongs are designed as part of the die sleeve, rather than a separate part. When using high forces you want a small amount of unsheathed plunger to prevent bucking of the plunger, so I) we keep the plunger short and ii) there are no spacers in the low profile die sets. These sets are made from stainless steel so can be heated to 250 °C during pressing.
Sleeve is ground to high tolerances to allows the plunger to slide through perfectly. Interior surfaces ground to a mirror-like finish (Ra=0.1).
See video below showing how this low profile die set works.
These are some of the smallest die we stock. You typically DO NOT NEED HIGH LOADS FOR GOOD PELLETS – High loads do not equal better pellets. At small diameters, you only need a small load (around 100 - 2000 lb!) for very high stresses on plunger and the powder. We do not suggest using with a hydraulic press which does not have an accurate read out for low forces. Do not use this die with a big, heavy press - you can easily exceed the yield stress of the steel. Think before hand, if you are close to being able to break steel then you are probably giving enough load to push powder together. You can even push down hard with your hand or tap it with a mallet to create sufficient force for compaction.
We also stock longer die sets (and larger diameters) in our standard selection. If you are looking to make a larger diameter and/or taller pellet please see our standard die sets here. If you need a custom diameter in the low profile design, please complete the custom die set form.
Materials
Material: 400 series stainless steel (tensile strength 160,000 PSI). Material can be heated to max 250°C (482°F)
Product Video
The video below shows the operation for ID 0.1-0.2inch (3mm-6mm)
Safety
- Always wear googles and safety protection equipment.
- Always press using a safety guard.
- Do not apply pressure above what is shown on table above.
- Make sure the plunger is fully engaged before pressing.
- More force does not always mean better pellets.
- Increasing with a higher force increases the chance of breakage.
Shipping and Returns
Most of the common die sizes are in stock in both our US and UK warehouses and we aim to have shipped out within 24-48 hours.
Free Die Set Shipping USA, UK, Canada and EU: Shipping is offered free across the USA, UK, Canada and EU for all die sets. In the USA and UK this typically takes 3-5 business days to arrive and is a tracked service. In Canada times vary depending on your local postal service. You will receive the tracking number automatically by email once your order has shipped.
Expedited delivery: Faster delivery options are available. Below are some indicative prices. To get the cost for your package and location, just add your address at check out and select the shipping option you want to check.
- USA FedEx 2 day delivery: typically $25-$65 USD depending on weight.
- USA FedEx Overnight Delivery: typically $40-$85 USD depending on weight.
- Canada FedEx International Priority: typically $25-$40 depending on weight.
Rest of Worldwide Shipping: Shipping costs to the rest of the world will be calculated at check-out. Please be aware that delivery times and tracking information vary for each country. Customs charges may apply and are payable by the buyer.
Returns: We offer a full refund on die sets that have not been opened or used. For safety reasons we can only accept a return of un-used die sets.
FAQS
What is the max load for my die?
The max recommended load for the 6 mm Low Profile Pellet Press Die Set is 80,000 psi (550 MPa). This load has a 50 % safety margin. Loads for each die set should be carefully considered before using the die to ensure safe operation. This is of particular concern with the smaller ID dies where you can reach the yield strength of the steel with a few pumps of the
hydraulic press. Do note that using high pressing force does not guarantee a denser pellet. If you press too hard, you will most likely surpass the fracture stress of the compact well before you reach the yield stress of the material. The stress in your pellet will concentrate at the top side of your pellet and you will likely see cracking or "capping" at the top of your powder compact.
The typical force for making a good pellets can be found on the specifications table above.
Can I heat up my die set?
The stainless steel die low profile die sets can be heated to around 250 °C (482F).
What is the thickest pellet I can make with my die set?
Low profile die sets are great for making small pellets. The fillable die sleeve height is 8mm so pending on the compact ratio of the material you are using you could make a pellet up to 6mm.
How do I clean and store my die set?
After each use make sure die set is cleaned and dry. If you are storing your die for a long time or it will be exposed to moisture or humidity then you can simply spray with WD-40 or a similar product. If you are looking for a product to help with cleaning we recommend using 3M™ Creme Cleanser for cleaning our pellet die sets. It is a cream which can be used with water to clean our dies. The cream has a small amount of gentle abrasive to help remove chemicals from the surface. Use with a scourer coated sponge for best results. For inner surface of die sleeve, use with appropriate sized nylon brush.
Advice for making good pellets?
There is a lot to say here...
1. Number 1 - obviously - press safely, if unsure ask someone with experience. You are able to put a lot of force through your die with a hydraulic press. Think about the force you want to apply beforehand, do not exceed the force for the die you are using, wear safety googles with side shields, use a guard between you and the press, keep other items off the press table so they don't get caught, make sure everything is inserted correctly and well located before pressing.
2. Check that your press plates are parallel and sample as level as possible before pressing. Check your pressure and force gauge is working and know what your max pressing force/pressure will be. Check against the maximum loads on the product page for your pellet die diameter.
3. If the die is overfilled with powder before pressing, the plunger will not locate properly.
4. Always clean your die before use - this will not only stop contamination but make the die work better, with less friction.
5. Higher force is not necessarily better - if you find your pellet is cracking then you should consider using less force before using more force. Please can you make sure that anyone using this die set follows the recommended forces on the product pages on our website. Make sure that the force gauge on hydraulic press is working and accurate.
6. If you are having trouble with a certain material - don't worry we have all been there. Consider drying before pressing changing the grain size your materials before pressing (more grinding), tapping with a small rubber mallet after assembly and before pressing (helps the powder move around, reorganise and settle before pressing), you can also try using lubricants or binders to help get your pellet out.
Have any questions? Feel free to reach out using our contact form.
Technical Help?
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