What is the difference between a die and a mold?

The distinction between a die and a mold is fundamentally rooted in their functions in the manufacturing process and the materials they typically work with.

A die functions primarily in shaping materials through cutting, forming, pressing, or stamping processes. This can involve cutting metal sheets into specific shapes or forming materials into desired profiles, usually employing force to achieve this change. Common applications for dies include operations like punching, blanking, and bending, where the material changes shape without becoming fluid.

In contrast, a mold is used to shape materials through processes that involve pouring or injecting a liquid into a predetermined cavity. Molds are typically designed for materials that must harden or solidify after being introduced into the mold, such as plastic or metal castings. The liquid material is allowed to cool and harden, taking on the shape of the mold in the process.

Understanding the operational context of dies and molds clarifies why one is associated with cutting and shaping solid materials and the other with forming liquids into solid shapes. This knowledge is critical for anyone working in the field of tool and die making, as it influences the choice of tools and techniques used in production.