DC for Steel

Drawing die options

Several drawing die materials may be available depending on drawing needs. The table below provides an overview of materials available. Relative durability and price will help determining which one will be ideal for your particular application. Please discuss your drawing needs with an Esteves expert to make sure you use the best and most cost-effective wire drawing die.

Nib material	TC	PCD	SSCD	ND	DC for steel
Size range availability (1)
Min.	.005” [0.127 mm]	.00157” [0.040 mm]	.00027” [0.007 mm]	.00027” [0.007 mm]	.256” [0.65 mm]
Max.	n/a	1.378” [35.0 mm]	.0840” [2.150 mm]	.0787” [2.0 mm]	1.575” [40.00 mm]
Approx. relative durability (2)
Non-ferrous	1x	50 – 500x	17 – 33x	17 – 33x	–
Ferrous	1x	8 – 70x	4 – 9x	4 – 9x	10x
Approx. relative price (3)
.0181” [0.460 mm]	1x	3 – 8x	3x	5x	6.5x
.0394” [1.001 mm]	1x	7 – 8x	15x	15x	6.5x
.3543” [9 mm]	1x	20 – 26x	–	–	6.5x
Physical properties (4)
Elastic modulus	450 – 650	850 – 1150	1120	700 – 1220	450 – 650
Thermal conductivity	100	500 – 600	800 – 2000	300 – 1000	100

1. The size range is for indication only. The maximum and minimum size depends on the required drawing die profile. Esteves Group’s Drawing Die Wizard software can be used to check if a certain blank can be used, or ask Esteves Group for guidance.
2. Relative durability is a comparison to tungsten carbide dies. The durability is for indication only and can differ depending on the drawn wire type, wire condition, lubricant used, and wire drawing conditions.
3. Relative price is a comparison to tungsten carbide dies. The relative price is for indication only and can differ depending on the tolerance, die geometry, casing size and any other
   requirements.
4. Elastic modulus is measured in GPa, and thermal conductivity in W/mK. More information on elastic modulus
   and thermal conductivity can be found on Wikipedia.