Our Inventory of Dies for Thread Rolling
Roll thread dies are a key component to making metal forming magic happen. Constant hydraulic pressure transfers the die thread roll form to rod in a cold-working process that makes it stronger and more durable with improved finish and functional accuracy.
We have an impressive inventory of roll thread dies that have been used for both thru-feed and infeed parts at Keystone Threaded Products—around 1000 ACME dies, V-thread dies, and combination dies for multi-start threads.
That’s a big number.
It might even be the largest inventory in North America. Although some of the die sets may be obsolete or designed only for special jobs, our collection is a well-maintained wonder: a library-meets-art exhibit that exudes Keystone pride, strength, and more than 100 years of experience.
Dies, or die heads, are used on a variety of lathes (including turret and CNC) and screw machines and can be used to cut or roll threads.
Of course, our products get their strength and durability because we use dies to roll—not cut—our threads.
Thread Rolling Advantages: Strength, Less Material Waste, Improved Finish & Accuracy
Compared to machined threads, rolled threads are stronger, making them the best choice for applications such as screw jacks and lead screws. Rolled threads also generally have superior surface finishes than those that have been turned or milled, making them smoother and more functionally reliable.
Dies Make the Metal-Forming Magic Happen
Our thread rolling machines use constant hydraulic force at high pressures to transfer the thread form from dies to rod. This cold-working process not only saves cost by eliminating scrap material created by cut threads, but also generates a smooth, work-hardened exterior, which makes them stronger and longer-lasting.
Strength = Longevity
- Rolling threads strengthens and hardens the metal when it is cold worked.
- Rolled threads have up to a 30% higher tensile strength compared to cut threads.
The life of a die can vary based on material grade and thread form (the harder the material, the more wear on the die). We also order custom dies for special orders (ie, if we’re making a product we haven’t made before).
Tooling Dies for Quality Thread Rolling
Dies are a key component of our manufacturing process, and we have a strict standard for maintaining them, including assessing, grading, reworking, and eventually replacing them.
Each die set is rated at 100% when it’s brand new. After a run is completed, dies are re-rated at 90%, 80%, or 70% using our time-tested and proven in-house rating system. That rating is entered into our ERP shop management system, and dies are either reshelved in the library or sent out for rework to ensure our quality promise to customers.
Large Dies for Large-Diameter Thread Rolling
One of our superpowers here at Keystone is thread rolling large-diameter rod. We can roll thread up to 20” in diameter! Compare that with the maximum 4” to 6” diameters rolled by most other manufacturers. The largest die set we currently have can roll a 15” diameter and can only be moved crane assistance.
Whether thru-feed or infeed, Keystone Threaded Products can form threads from ¼” up to 20” on your components at a quality and pace unparalleled by conventionally machined cut threads.
If you’d like more information on how to partner with us for your product needs, Request a Quote or contact us at 216.524.9626 or keystone@keystonethreaded.com today!
