Tool and Die Makers

Analyze specifications, lay out metal stock, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and assemble parts to make and repair dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and machinists' hand tools.

Job Task

• Studies blueprints or specifications and visualizes shape of die, part, or tool.
• Computes dimensions of assembly and plans sequence of operations.
• Measures, marks, and scribes metal or plastic stock to lay out machining, using instruments, such as protractors, micrometers, scribes, and rulers.
• Sets up and operates machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, and grinders, to machine parts.
• Lifts, positions, and secures machined parts on surface plate or worktable, using hoist, vises, v-blocks, or angle plates.
• Sets up and operates drill press to drill and tap holes in parts for assembly.
• Operates power press to test completed dies, and applies pigment to die to indicate high spots which require reworking.
• Inspects die for smoothness, contour conformity, and defects by touch or visually, using loupe or microscope.
• Connects wiring and hydraulic lines to install electrical and hydraulic components.
• Fabricates sawblades, using power roller to straighten blade stock, punch press to cut teeth, and power grinder to sharpen teeth.
• Smoothes and polishes flat and contoured surfaces of parts or tools, using scrapers, abrasive stones, files, emery cloth, or power grinder.
• Verifies dimensions, alignments, and clearances of finished parts, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, gauge blocks, micrometers, and dial indicators.
• Fits and assembles parts, using bolts, glue, and other fasteners, and hand tools, such as hammers and wrenches.
• Sets pyrometer controls of heat-treating furnace, and feeds or places parts, tools, or assemblies into furnace to harden.
• Repairs or modifies tools and dies, using machine tools and hand tools.
• Designs tools, jigs, fixtures, and templates for use as work aids.
• Cuts, shapes, and trims blank or block to specified length or shape, using powersaws, powershears, rule, and hand tools.
• Casts plastic tools or parts, or tungsten-carbide cutting tips, using pre-made molds.

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