12 mm Low Profile Pellet Press Die Set

The max recommended load for the 12 mm Low Profile Pellet Press Die Set is 80,000 psi (550 MPa). This load has a 50 % safety margin. Loads for each die set should be carefully considered before using the die to ensure safe operation. This is of particular concern with the smaller ID dies where you can reach the yield strength of the steel with a few pumps of the
hydraulic press. Do note that using high pressing force does not guarantee a denser pellet. If you press too hard, you will most likely surpass the fracture stress of the compact well before you reach the yield stress of the material. The stress in your pellet will concentrate at the top side of your pellet and you will likely see cracking or "capping" at the top of your powder compact.

The typical force for making a good pellets can be found on the specifications table above.

The stainless steel die low profile die sets can be heated to around 250 °C (482F).

Low profile die sets are great for making small pellets. The fillable die sleeve height is 8mm so pending on the compact ratio of the material you are using you could make a pellet up to 6mm.

After each use make sure die set is cleaned and dry. If you are storing your die for a long time or it will be exposed to moisture or humidity then you can simply spray with WD-40 or a similar product. If you are looking for a product to help with cleaning we recommend using 3M™ Creme Cleanser for cleaning our pellet die sets. It is a cream which can be used with water to clean our dies. The cream has a small amount of gentle abrasive to help remove chemicals from the surface. Use with a scourer coated sponge for best results. For inner surface of die sleeve, use with appropriate sized nylon brush.

There is a lot to say here...

1. Number 1 - obviously - press safely, if unsure ask someone with experience. You are able to put a lot of force through your die with a hydraulic press. Think about the force you want to apply beforehand, do not exceed the force for the die you are using, wear safety googles with side shields, use a guard between you and the press, keep other items off the press table so they don't get caught, make sure everything is inserted correctly and well located before pressing.
2. Check that your press plates are parallel and sample as level as possible before pressing. Check your pressure and force gauge is working and know what your max pressing force/pressure will be. Check against the maximum loads on the product page for your pellet die diameter.
3. If the die is overfilled with powder before pressing, the plunger will not locate properly.
4. Always clean your die before use - this will not only stop contamination but make the die work better, with less friction.
5. Higher force is not necessarily better - if you find your pellet is cracking then you should consider using less force before using more force. Please can you make sure that anyone using this die set follows the recommended forces on the product pages on our website. Make sure that the force gauge on hydraulic press is working and accurate.
6. If you are having trouble with a certain material - don't worry we have all been there. Consider drying before pressing changing the grain size your materials before pressing (more grinding), tapping with a small rubber mallet after assembly and before pressing (helps the powder move around, reorganise and settle before pressing), you can also try using lubricants or binders to help get your pellet out.

Have any questions? Feel free to reach out using our contact form.

Yes, we can custom make a die set to suit your needs. We have made most shapes and sized die sets (up to 6 inch ID). For custom die FAQs go here. To request a quote fill in details about your die set requirements here.