Eli Whitney’s introduction of interchangeable parts in the 19th century was key to shifting the world from manual production to machine production. This period, known as the Industrial Revolution, birthed the role of tool and die maker.
Tool and die makers remain critical in modern manufacturing. What does a tool and die maker do? They produce specialized tools, dies, and molds for manufacturing products made from metal, plastic, and ceramic components. Tool and die makers have the specialized training to work across various sectors, from consumer goods to the military and aerospace.
Tool and Die Maker Job Description
Tool and die makers review technical product drawings and interpret them to understand the exact dimensions and specifications to create parts that facilitate the manufacture of products and goods. To understand what a tool and die maker does, there are a few key terms to be aware of.
Tools. Tooling encompasses designing and creating tools such as dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures. Tooling enables mass production of metal parts with consistent quality and precision, essential for fitting into larger assemblies.
Dies. Dies are a subset of tools that are used for shaping metals via cutting (removing material) and forming (shaping without removal). Many forms of dies exist, including progressive dies to perform multiple operations in one stroke and transfer dies to execute one operation per set.
Work Environment for Tool and Die Makers
Tool and die makers may work in various settings based on their industries. However, their work in manufacturing production typically involves the extensive use of computers or machines and often involves considerable time standing.
Tool and die makers are skilled workers who usually perform their tasks independently, handling a daily list of jobs. Fixed shifts are common for tool and die makers. However, flexibility may be necessary to manage potential overtime requests.
Machines operated by tool and die makers come with hazards, such as moving parts, flying debris, and noise. Ensuring safety is crucial, requiring the use of protective gear to safeguard against the various risks associated with operating machinery. Recent advancements in machining processes have greatly improved the work environments for tool and die makers, resulting in cleaner, safer, and less noisy workshops.
Primary Job Responsibilities for Tool and Die Makers
The responsibilities of tool and die makers can vary, but they generally involve those listed below.
Interpreting Engineering Drawings
Tool and die makers translate technical drawings into functional hardware. They also read and interpret blueprints and computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) files to accurately create tools, molds, and dies.
Creating Precision Tools and Dies
Using precision tools and metal forms, tool and die makers shape, cut, and mold materials. Their expertise enables the production of complex parts with exact specifications. Ensuring accuracy helps improve standards of quality in manufacturing production.
Dimensional Verification and Setup
Tool and die makers calculate and verify the dimensions, sizes, shapes, and tolerances of workpieces. This includes setting up and operating a range of machine tools. They ensure that each part meets strict manufacturing guidelines.
Finishing and Testing
Tool and die makers are responsible for filing, grinding, and adjusting parts. To ensure that tools and dies are ready for use, they test them to ensure perfect alignment, finishing as needed to meet all specifications.
Fundamental Skills for Tool and Die Makers
Tool and die makers have specialized skills in using advanced equipment, including CAD/CAM software, precision measuring tools, specialized cutting instruments, and computer-controlled machinery. Additional fundamental skills to the role include those listed below.
Attention to Detail and Focus
Precision in tool and die making is a necessity. Tool and die makers must have acute concentration skills and be able to focus on intricate details. These skills are useful for avoiding errors that could compromise the functionality of the final product.
Technical Interpretation
Deciphering engineering drawings and specifications is essential for creating tools and parts that align with project goals and performance criteria. Accurate technical interpretation helps to ensure that manufactured items precisely match the intended design.
Problem Solving
Strong analytical capabilities enable tool and die makers to troubleshoot issues with machinery or tools, ensuring continuous production and high-quality outputs.
Mechanical Proficiency
A robust understanding of mechanics, welding, cutting, and computer numerical control (CNC) programming is crucial for designing and repairing tools and dies. This comprehensive knowledge allows for the creation of efficient, durable, and precise tools.
Mathematical and Technological Aptitude
Proficiency in mathematics is key to ensuring the accuracy of measurements when creating tools. Familiarity with CAD software, CNC machine tools, and computerized measuring machines facilitates accurate design and manufacturing processes.
Job Outlook for Tool and Die Makers
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a steady job outlook for machinists and tool and die makers over the next decade, with no significant change in overall employment levels for these occupations expected from 2022 to 2032. However, the BLS projects that there will be about 38,200 job openings for these positions each year during the period — just enough to offset workers who are leaving the field.
The tool and die-making sector is navigating a period marked by a scarcity of skilled labor. This situation primarily stems from the retirement of seasoned professionals and those who are shifting to different careers. This trend may create opportunities for younger people who are interested in learning about what a tool and die maker does as they explore their professional options.
Prepare for a Hands-on Skilled Trades Career
According to a study by Deloitte, the U.S. manufacturing sector faces a projected shortage of more than 2 million workers by 2030, with skilled roles becoming more difficult to fill. For individuals who enjoy working with their hands, problem-solving, and using various types of mechanical and high-powered equipment and the latest in manufacturing design technologies, the role of tool and die maker may be the right fit.
Consider the benefits of the skilled trades schools at Fortis in helping you build skills that are critical to the work of a tool and die maker. Fortis offers a Welding Technology training program, with courses in blueprint reading, fabrication techniques, and equipment use and maintenance to help jump-start your career.
Discover how Fortis can prepare you for a trade in which you can work with your hands and contribute to the future of manufacturing.
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