Red Seal Tool and Die Maker Practice Exam

Which of the following materials is NOT commonly used to make dies?

1. Steel

2. Aluminum

3. Plastic

4. Glass

The correct answer is: Glass

The choice of material for making dies is critical in the tool and die making industry, and each material has specific properties that make it suitable for particular applications. Steel is a common choice due to its high strength, durability, and ability to hold sharp edges, making it ideal for stamping and forming dies. Aluminum is also widely used, especially for applications requiring lightweight and good machinability; however, it is typically suitable for low-volume production due to wear resistance being lower compared to steel. Plastic and glass, while used in various manufacturing processes, are not conventional materials for die making. Plastic can sometimes be used to create prototypes or low-cost molds, but it lacks the necessary strength for most die applications, especially in metal forming. Glass is highly brittle and has low impact resistance, making it unsuitable for die production where strength and stress resistance are critical. The correct response indicates that glass does not possess the necessary mechanical properties or durability required for making dies, unlike steel and aluminum, which are fundamental materials in this field.