When ordering tablet dies and punches, you need to specify whether your press uses EU (European) or TSM (Tablet Specification Manual / American) tooling standards. While both standards share the same basic tooling sizes (D, B, BB), there are critical dimensional differences that affect interchangeability.
EMMKAY INDUSTRIES manufactures tooling to both EU and TSM standards at our factory in New Delhi, India.
Shared Dimensions (Same in Both Standards)
| Tooling Type | Die OD | Max Tablet | Punch Barrel |
|---|---|---|---|
| D Tooling | 38.10mm | 25.0mm | 25.4mm |
| B Tooling | 30.16mm | 18.5mm | 19.0mm |
| BB Tooling | 24mm | 18.5mm | 19.0mm |
Where They Differ
Punch Head Geometry
The shape and dimensions of the punch head (the part that contacts the compression rollers) differ between standards.
Key Slot Position
The key that prevents punch rotation is positioned differently in EU and TSM tooling.
Overall Punch Length
EU and TSM punches have different overall lengths.
Head Flat and Transitions
The flat area on the punch head and neck/barrel transitions vary between standards.
These differences mean that EU punches generally cannot be used in TSM presses, and vice versa, even though the die dimensions are the same.
Which Standard Does Your Press Use?
TSM Standard Presses
Common in India
- ·Cadmach
- ·Rimek / Karnavati
- ·ACG (Pam)
- ·Chamunda
- ·Fluidpack
- ·Most Indian-made presses
- ·Stokes (USA)
EU Standard Presses
European manufacturers
- ·Fette Compacting (Germany)
- ·Korsch (Germany)
- ·Manesty (UK)
- ·IMA (Italy)
- ·Bosch / Syntegon
- ·Most European-made presses
Always check your press manual or measure your existing tooling before ordering. Using the wrong standard can damage your press and tooling.
How to Identify Your Current Standard
Check the press manual — it will specify the tooling standard
Measure the punch head — EU and TSM heads have different profiles
Check the key slot — position and dimensions differ between standards
Contact your press manufacturer — they can confirm the standard
Send us a sample — we can measure and identify the standard for you
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use EU tooling in a TSM press?
Generally no. The punch head geometry and key slot positions differ, so EU punches won't fit correctly in TSM turrets. The dies are often interchangeable since die OD is the same, but punches are not.
Which standard is better?
Neither is inherently better. Both produce the same quality tablets. The standard is determined by your press manufacturer, not by quality differences.
Is there a price difference between EU and TSM tooling?
No. Both standards are priced the same at EMMKAY. Contact us and specify EU or TSM when requesting a quote.