Die Clearance
The per-side gap between punch and die that controls cut-edge quality and tool life.
What it means on the floor
Die clearance is the space, per side, between the cutting punch and the die opening. It is usually expressed as a percentage of material thickness — commonly 5–12% per side depending on material and hardness.
Too little clearance causes secondary shear, high tonnage, and rapid wear; too much produces large burrs and excessive edge rollover. Correct clearance yields a clean break with the right balance of burnish and fracture.
Category: Stamping
Applying the term
Interpret Die Clearance in the context of the drawing, governing standard, and customer requirement in front of you — the same word can carry different limits in design, quality, and production documents. Check whether a stated value is nominal, minimum, maximum, or reference-only, and whether it applies before forming, after forming, or after heat treatment.