CNC diemaking shop needed to build tooling from my SolidWorks models

[Die61]

Originally Posted by PhoenixMetal I have designed several dies in SolidWorks and need to find a CNC toolmaking shop that can produce from my 3d models. All the diemakers that I know of are old-school - they need two months to make anything and do their work with hand-fed milling machines, and they work only with 2D cad and don't know 3D modelling. I'm looking for a shop that can take my SolidWorks models, program their CNC milling machines, machining centers or EDM, and turn out a part to my specifications in a short amount of time. Does anybody have this capability or know of a good shop for this?

Phoenix,

I know this is an old thread but, just wondering how you made out getting your tooling manufactured?
I don't know about the tool shops where you're located but, around here most die shops are fully 3D solids based. The few 2D shops which remain are just prolonging their agony (for a while)!
Die maker here since the late 70's, spent 12 years freelance die designing & have owned 2 shops.
BTW, your statement re. diemakers & 3D modeling doesn't hold too much water.
Die makers couldn't give a rat's a$$ if the design is 2D or 3D, it's purely for integration with CNC's..........& lesser skilled designers who couldn't design in 3D even if they were shown!

Paul

[mactec54]

PhoenixMetal

We did not see if you wanted dies or molds, There is a big difference it would be interesting to know this as well,
dies mostly are better in 2D & molds Can be both

[PhoenixMetal]

Its been about two years since I originally started this thread... Since then we have bought a CNC machining center and have built several progressive dies for our own use in house.

Having done these things myself, I now realize (and agree with several of the posts) that it really doesn't matter whether the diemaker works in 2D or 3D, or even necessarily whether they are using CNC or manual equipment.

However, I still do feel that if the design is done in 3D, it makes communication between the designer and diemaker so much more fluid if the diemaker were also working in 3D. For example, discussions regarding changes to the design to facilitate the realities of the machining process, etc.

[Die61]

Originally Posted by PhoenixMetal Its been about two years since I originally started this thread... Since then we have bought a CNC machining center and have built several progressive dies for our own use in house. Having done these things myself, I now realize (and agree with several of the posts) that it really doesn't matter whether the diemaker works in 2D or 3D, or even necessarily whether they are using CNC or manual equipment. However, I still do feel that if the design is done in 3D, it makes communication between the designer and diemaker so much more fluid if the diemaker were also working in 3D. For example, discussions regarding changes to the design to facilitate the realities of the machining process, etc.

Glad to hear you were successful.
Solids design has reduced the requiered skill level for both designer & toolmaker thereby making it a much more profitable way to manufacture tools.........if the design is sound?!
However, if only manual machines are being used, solids design is not necessary & will increase your manufacturing costs.

Paul

[mactec54]

PhoenixMetal

You put that very well, it is just like you say, Glad that you got going on your projects,
sometimes the only way is to do it yourself

[CastCNC]

Hi All, I know this thread is long in the tooth but it seems a few die makers are still about. I have interest in getting a quote on casting dies for use with aluminum in gravity die casting.

I will be upfront in that I dont have a lot of money to spend on this but if the cost is not too high I would like to start with one smaller part to see how it goes then progress through several other parts that I currently sand cast. So basically looking for a ballpark to let me know if this will be a feasible option.

If someone is interested in discussing this with me please send a PM, I have solid models of the part I can provide and I can also make a model of the negative.

Thanks,

Harry

[roninB4]

[QUOTE=PhoenixMetal;765006]

However, I still do feel that if the design is done in 3D, it makes communication between the designer and diemaker so much more fluid if the diemaker were also working in 3D. QUOTE]


Perhaps so, it would also help if the designer could understand how his designs are nothing but pretty graphics until they are machined. A conversation needs to be conducted with effort from BOTH parties as each attempts to grasp the reality of the other. A tool (3D or CNC) is merely a means to an end and only as good as the operator. The best engineers I've worked with were former toolmakers. The best toolmakers I've worked with understood the principles of engineering. Only the ignorant/arrogant ignored the function of the other. JMO