Thin Is In

Converters all know this, but these components are not always as well-maintained as they should be. Dies, both solid and flexible, are a highly visible part of the process, right out in plain sight, and can be different for every job. What converters often underestimate is just how often they need to be sharpened or even replaced. Although a die can usually be sharpened four times before it is worn out, there is no clear rule of thumb. How long a given die can go before needing sharpening varies due to run lengths, repeat length, substrates used, anvil condition, and overall press maintenance. "Still," notes Fouts, "we have more dies come in for repair due to damage than for sharpening due to wear. These are delicate pieces of machinery. You can't just throw one around like it's a Craftsman wrench."