At TCDC, we recognize that cast tooling is the foundation of a product’s quality and a significant investment. While others shy away from high-complexity geometries, we specialize in innovative, custom tooling solutions designed to handle the most demanding tolerances and intricate part designs. Our engineers actively optimize every die to maximize performance and extend tool life. By integrating Design for Manufacturing (DFM) analysis early in the process, we identify potential failure points before the steel is cut.
Whether your priority is minimizing upfront capital or maximizing long-term tool life, our flexible tooling strategies are built to align with your bottom line.TCDC balances speed, cost, and tool longevity through a network of domestic and global tooling partners, all while maintaining total quality control through in-house engineering and validation. The result is a tooling strategy optimized for your project’s ROI.
For maximum shot life, it is our engineering standard to specify premium H13 or superior tool steels, employ heat treatment, and often times we'll use specialized coatings (like PVD) to prevent soldering and erosion. Our in-house tool room provides immediate support for tooling repairs and modifications, drastically reducing downtime compared to off-site services. We also have established Preventative Maintenance (PM) programs to mitigate issues like thermal fatigue and erosion, ensuring you reach the maximum shot life for your tooling investment.
Expected Tool Life*
Aluminum ~ 100,000 shots*
Magnesium ~ 200,000 to 300,000 shots*
* The exact life of die cast tooling depends on part geometry and complexity, required tolerances, and the type of metal cast.
There are a variety of tooling configurations to consider based on your desired output, including:
Single Cavity Tool: Produces a single casting.
Multiple Cavity Tool: Produces multiple parts at once.
Family Tool: Multiple cavity tool that produces multiple part numbers.
Find out more about the work that we do, the benefits of working for TCDC, and employment opportunities at all of our locations.
We operate three US facilities in the Midwest, and all within 200 miles of our corporate headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Fill out our request form to have our Sales and Engineering staff review your design and a member of the TCDC team will contact you.
