DB tooling is a hybrid standard that combines the die outside diameter of B tooling (30.16mm) with the punch barrel diameter of D tooling (25.4mm). This combination allows manufacturers to produce tablets up to 25mm in diameter on presses that are designed for B tooling dies — bridging the gap between the two most common tooling standards.
EMMKAY INDUSTRIES has manufactured DB tooling since 1983. Every set is precision-machined to TSM and EU specifications with full material traceability, ensuring compatibility with your existing B tooling press.
DB Tooling Key Dimensions
| Parameter | DB Tooling | D Tooling | B Tooling | BB Tooling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Die Outside Diameter | 30.16mm (B die) | 38.10mm (1.5") | 30.16mm (1.1875") | 24mm (0.945") |
| Max Tablet Diameter | 25mm | 25mm | 18.5mm | 18.5mm |
| Punch Barrel Diameter | 25.4mm (D punch) | 25.4mm (1.0") | 19.0mm | 19.0mm |
| Press Compatibility | B tooling presses | D tooling presses | B tooling presses | BB tooling presses |
| Best For | Large tablets on B presses | Standard to large tablets | Medium tablets on B presses | Compact presses |
How DB Tooling Works
DB tooling is not a separate press standard — it is a tooling configuration that fits into a B tooling press. The die fits the B tooling die pocket (30.16mm OD), while the punch barrel fits the D tooling punch guide (25.4mm). This means the press turret accepts the die normally, but the punch guides must be bored to D tooling dimensions.
Die OD
30.16mm
Fits B tooling die pocket
Punch Barrel
25.4mm
Fits D tooling punch guide
Max Tablet
25mm
Same as D tooling range
When to Use DB Tooling
You Have a B Tooling Press
Your press is designed for B tooling dies (30.16mm die OD) but you need to produce tablets larger than 18.5mm. DB tooling lets you achieve up to 25mm tablets without replacing the press.
Switching from D to B Press
If you are moving production from a D tooling press to a B tooling press, DB tooling allows you to maintain the same tablet sizes without reformulating or resizing your product.
Flexible Production Lines
Manufacturers running multiple tablet sizes on B tooling presses use DB tooling for their larger tablet formats, keeping the same press for all sizes.
Press Upgrade Constraints
When capital investment in a new D tooling press is not feasible, DB tooling is a cost-effective way to expand your tablet size range on existing B tooling equipment.
Shapes and Configurations
Available Shapes
- ·Round (up to 25mm) — flat, shallow concave, deep concave, beveled
- ·Capsule shape — elongated tablets for easier swallowing
- ·Oval — smooth elliptical profile for coated tablets
- ·Triangle, square, pentagon — geometric shapes
- ·Custom shapes — logo embossing, unique profiles
Punch Tip Profiles
- ·Flat-faced — for scoring, embossing, and uncoated tablets
- ·Shallow concave — standard for most coated tablets
- ·Deep concave — for thick film coatings
- ·Beveled edge — reduced chipping during coating
- ·Compound cup — combination of flat and concave areas
Special Configurations
- ·Break-line (score line) punches — single or cross score
- ·Embossed punches — logo, text, or dosage markings
- ·Keyed punches — for shaped tablets requiring orientation
- ·Multi-tip punches — 2-tip to 5+ tip for high-volume production
Materials
- ·OHNS (58–62 HRC) — standard formulations, moderate volumes
- ·HCHC / D3 (62–64 HRC) — abrasive formulations, high volumes
- ·S7 (56–58 HRC) — impact-prone formulations
- ·EMMKAY Special Steel (55–60 HRC) — corrosive or acidic formulations
Why Choose EMMKAY INDUSTRIES for DB Tooling
40+ Years Experience
Since 1983, EMMKAY INDUSTRIES has manufactured precision tooling for pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, ayurvedic, and confectionery manufacturers across India and internationally. DB tooling is part of our complete tooling range.
Precision to Standard
Every DB tooling set is manufactured to TSM and EU specifications. The critical interface between B die OD and D punch barrel is precision-machined and inspected for concentricity and fit.
Press Compatibility Verification
Before manufacturing, we verify your press model and punch guide dimensions to confirm DB tooling compatibility. We will advise if your press requires any modification to the punch guides.
Quick Delivery
Standard DB tooling delivered in 7–10 working days. Emergency replacements available with expedited manufacturing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DB tooling?
DB tooling is a hybrid tooling standard that uses B tooling dies (30.16mm die OD) with D tooling punch barrels (25.4mm). This allows you to produce tablets up to 25mm in diameter on a press designed for B tooling dies. See our tooling comparison guide for more context.
Does my press need modification for DB tooling?
The die pockets remain the same as B tooling (30.16mm). However, the punch guides must be bored to D tooling dimensions (25.4mm barrel). Some B tooling presses can be converted; others may already support DB tooling. Share your press model with us and we will confirm compatibility. Contact us for a compatibility check.
What is the difference between DB tooling and D tooling?
D tooling uses a 38.10mm die OD and fits D tooling presses. DB tooling uses a 30.16mm die OD (same as B tooling) but with a 25.4mm punch barrel (same as D tooling). Both can produce tablets up to 25mm, but they fit different presses.
Can I use DB tooling in a standard B tooling press?
Only if the punch guides are bored to 25.4mm (D tooling barrel diameter). A standard B tooling press has 19.0mm punch guides, which will not accept DB tooling punches. Contact us with your press model for a compatibility check.
What is the maximum tablet size for DB tooling?
The maximum tablet diameter for DB tooling is 25mm — the same as D tooling. This is significantly larger than standard B tooling, which is limited to 18.5mm.
Is DB tooling more expensive than standard B tooling?
DB tooling is priced similarly to D tooling due to the larger punch barrel diameter and the precision required at the die-punch interface. Contact us for a specific quotation based on your shape and quantity.
Tooling Standards
- D Tooling — 38.10mm Die OD
- B Tooling — 30.16mm Die OD
- BB Tooling — 24mm Die OD
- DB Tooling — B Die + D Punch
- D Tooling vs B Tooling Comparison