In manufacturing, specialized tools are utilized to cut, shape, or form materials. These tools, often referred to as dies, are typically made of hardened steel or other durable materials. They are precisely engineered to create specific shapes or features in the workpiece through processes such as stamping, forging, or extrusion. A common example is the creation of car body panels using large stamping tools.
The use of these tools is crucial for mass production, enabling the efficient and consistent creation of identical parts. This leads to significant cost reductions and improved product quality. Their historical development has paralleled advancements in manufacturing technology, constantly evolving to meet the demands of increasingly complex designs and materials.