TOOL & DIE ENGINEERING

About

Diploma in Mechanical engineering (tool and die) is the branch of engineering that applies the principles of physics and material science for analysis, design, manufacturing and maintenance of mechanical system. It involves the production and usage of making design for the tool, production and operation of machines. This field requires an understanding of core concepts including mechanics, Thermodynamics, Material science, Jigs and fixtures, Press tools, Forging dies and Plastic Engineering. Tool and Die Engineers use these core principles along with the tools like computer aided manufacturing, computer integrated manufacturing, and Product life cycle management to design and analyze plants, equipment and machinery.

Functions

It includes measuring out the design on the raw material (usually metal), then cut it to size and shape using manually controlled machine tools (such as lathes, milling machines, grinding machines and jig grinders) and hand tools (such as files, hones and stones). Computer-aided-design and Computer-aided machining are also used to perform these tasks
Using common tools like metal forming rolls, lathe bits, milling cutters and form tools for production of products.
Using precision fixturing or machine tools to manufacture, hold or test products during their fabrication
Making punches, dies, steel rule dies and die sets

Career

Some of the most skilled employees in production are tool and dye makers. They make tools, dyes, and customized guiding and holding devices that allow production equipment to produce many different kinds of products, from clothes and furniture to heavy components used in airplanes.

Toolmakers make a variety of tools and machines that must be utilized in the cutting, shaping, and forming of metals and other supplies. Additionally, toolmakers make jigs and fixtures, which are tools that hold metal while boring, stamping, or drilling is being done, as well other devices used to make measurements like gauges. Dye makers produce metal forms (dyes) which are utilized thin shaping metal for stamping and forging tasks. Additionally, dye makers produce metal molds for dye casting or molding plastics, ceramics, and composite substances. To decide the best way to produce a part, some tool and die makers will design and create prototypes of components. Besides the working on the development, design, and production of tools and dies, these employees might also make repairs on old or broken tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, and gauges.

Job Prospects

Tool and die makers are skilled tradespeople who are responsible for the creation and maintenance of specialty tools used in the manufacture of goods. They often create tools that are specific to their employer or industry. In addition, dies, punches, and other precision parts related to manufacture are created and maintained. Tool and die makers are required to maintain and meet strict precision guidelines within their position, often working on parts that require minute tolerances to ensure proper performance. They often work closely with both engineers and machine operators to ensure that the tools they create and maintain are performing to specification, and it is often the case that tool and die makers have a hand in the planning and execution of assembly within manufacturing plants and machine shops.

Some of the tools used by tool and die makers include lathes, CNC machines, and grinders. Tool and die makers work primarily with many varieties of metals, but they sometimes need to use other materials to meet the needs of their employer. These professionals often work standard manufacturing hours, which is considered shift work; overtime is sometimes necessary depending on their employer work volume. Common employers for tool and die makers include machine shops, manufacturing environments, and assembly environments. 

Related education is required for tool and die makers. This may include previous on-the-job training, trade school training, or an apprenticeship with a more experienced tool and die maker. Previous experience in a similar position may be required by employers as well.

Remuneration

Tool and die makers earn an annual mean wage of $48,170, according to May 2011 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Their annual median income is $46,650, with the bottom 10 percent making $31,660 and the top 10 percent earning $69,090. Those with experience and training in a range of skills are likely to earn the most money and have the best job opportunities.

Course Structure

Section-A

Section-B

Project Work