How do I choose the right punches and dies for my tablet press?
Selecting the right punches and dies depends on your tablet press model (which determines the tooling standard — D, B, or BB), your tablet shape and dimensions, your formulation requirements, and your production volume. Check your press manual for the compatible tooling standard, then define your tablet shape, size, and any embossing requirements. Contact EMMKAY INDUSTRIES with your press brand and model for expert guidance.
What is the difference between D tooling, B tooling, and BB tooling?
D tooling is the LARGEST standard with a 38.10mm die OD and supports tablets up to 25mm diameter. B tooling is MEDIUM with a 30.16mm die OD and supports tablets up to 18.5mm. BB tooling is the SMALLEST with a 24mm die OD, also supporting tablets up to 18.5mm. The tooling standard is determined by your tablet press — always check your press manual before ordering. See our D tooling vs B tooling comparison for a detailed breakdown.
What materials are tablet dies and punches made from?
EMMKAY INDUSTRIES manufactures tablet dies and punches in HCHC/D3 (High Carbon High Chromium) as the standard for all dies, OHNS (Oil Hardened Non-Shrinking Steel) for punches and general use, S7 tool steel for applications requiring high toughness, and EMMKAY Special Steel as the most affordable and corrosion-resistant option. See our tooling selection guide for help choosing the right material for your formulation.
How long do tablet dies and punches last?
Tooling lifespan depends on formulation abrasiveness, production volume, press speed, material grade, and maintenance practices. Typical ranges: OHNS tooling lasts 3–5 million tablets, HCHC tooling lasts 5–10 million tablets. With TiN coating, lifespan extends by an additional 30–50%. Proper maintenance — cleaning, lubrication, and correct storage — can double or triple tooling life. Read our full guide on how long tablet dies last.
What tablet shapes can EMMKAY INDUSTRIES manufacture?
EMMKAY INDUSTRIES manufactures tooling for round, capsule, oval, triangle, star, moon, bottle, fish, and heart shapes. We also manufacture fully custom shapes from your drawings or CAD files, with logo embossing, break lines, and special engravings. Multi-tip configurations are available for most shapes.
How much do tablet dies and punches cost?
Round tablet dies and punches start from ₹1,000 per set. Capsule, oval, and triangle shapes start from ₹1,500 per set. Other standard shapes (star, moon, bottle, fish) start from ₹2,000 per set. Custom tooling starts from ₹2,000 per set. Multi-tip punches start from ₹3,000 per set. Minimum order is 10 sets. Final pricing depends on shape complexity, material grade, coatings, and quantity. Contact EMMKAY INDUSTRIES for a specific quote.
Does EMMKAY INDUSTRIES provide consultation for tooling selection?
Yes. With 40+ years of experience, EMMKAY INDUSTRIES provides pre-order consultation to help you select the right tooling standard, material, coating, and configuration for your specific tablet press and formulation. We also provide post-delivery support including tablet defect troubleshooting and maintenance guidance.
What is the minimum order quantity?
The minimum order quantity is 10 sets per product. One set contains 1 upper punch, 1 lower punch, and 1 die. Browse our product catalog to add items to your enquiry.
How long does delivery take?
Standard orders ship within 7–10 working days from order confirmation. Custom shapes for first-time orders take 10–15 working days including design review and approval. Expedited manufacturing is available for emergency replacements. Repeat orders are typically faster as your specifications are already on file.
Does EMMKAY INDUSTRIES ship internationally?
Yes. EMMKAY INDUSTRIES ships tablet dies and punches to manufacturers across India and internationally, including customers in Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Contact us for international shipping enquiries.
What is the difference between EU and TSM tooling standards?
EU (European) and TSM standards share the same die outer diameters for D, B, and BB tooling, but differ in punch head geometry, key slot position, and overall punch length. EU punches generally cannot be used in TSM presses and vice versa. Indian presses like Cadmach and Rimek use TSM standard, while European presses like Fette and Korsch use EU standard. EMMKAY manufactures both. Read our full EU vs TSM guide.
Which steel grade should I choose for abrasive formulations?
HCHC (D3) steel at 62-64 HRC is the standard recommendation for all dies due to superior wear resistance. For abrasive formulations containing calcium, iron, or minerals, use HCHC for both dies and punches. For formulations that cause punch tip chipping, S7 steel offers superior impact resistance. Read our OHNS vs HCHC vs S7 comparison for a detailed breakdown.
Can you manufacture tooling for effervescent tablets?
Yes. Effervescent tablets require corrosion-resistant tooling due to acidic ingredients like citric acid and tartaric acid. We recommend EMMKAY Special Steel with DLC or chrome coating for effervescent production. This combination provides corrosion resistance and anti-stick properties needed for acidic formulations. Read our effervescent tablet tooling guide.
How do I order custom tablet tooling with my logo?
Send us your tablet specifications (shape, dimensions, tooling standard) and logo artwork (vector files preferred). We provide a CAD drawing for your approval within 24-48 hours. Once approved, custom tooling is manufactured in 15-20 working days. CAD drawings are included at no extra cost. Read our step-by-step ordering guide.
What causes tablets to stick to the punches?
Tablet sticking is usually caused by moisture in the formulation, insufficient lubrication, rough or pitted punch surfaces, or worn tooling. Solutions include DLC or chrome-coated punches, mirror-polished punch tips, and ensuring proper formulation moisture content. For persistent sticking, consider upgrading to EMMKAY Special Steel with DLC coating. See our compression problems guide for more troubleshooting.
Do you supply tooling to all cities in India?
Yes. We ship from our Delhi factory to every state in India. We have established logistics routes to major pharma hubs including Mumbai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Bangalore, Baddi, Sikkim, and Goa. Standard delivery is 7-10 working days, with faster delivery to Delhi NCR (3-5 days) and Baddi (5-7 days). See our India-wide coverage page.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is happy to help with tooling selection, technical questions, or pricing enquiries.
Product Catalog Tablet Punches and Dies Overview D Tooling — 38.10mm B Tooling — 30.16mm BB Tooling — 24mm D Tooling vs B Tooling Comparison How to Choose Tablet Dies How Long Do Dies Last Custom Tooling Multi-Tip Punches Maintenance Guide Coatings Guide About EMMKAY INDUSTRIES Contact EMMKAY INDUSTRIES Blog