EMMKAY INDUSTRIES manufactures tablet dies and punches in all three major tooling standards — D, B, and BB. Each standard defines the die outside diameter, punch barrel diameter, and maximum tablet size. Choosing the correct standard is determined by your tablet press model, not by preference.
Since 1983, we have supplied precision tooling to manufacturers across India and internationally. Every set is manufactured to TSM and EU specifications with full material traceability.
D Tooling
Most CommonDie OD
38.10mm (1.5")
Max Tablet
Up to 25mm
The most widely used tooling standard worldwide. Compatible with the majority of rotary tablet presses. Ideal for standard to large tablets across pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and confectionery industries.
- ·Pharmaceutical tablets
- ·Nutraceutical supplements
- ·Confectionery and candy
- ·Ayurvedic formulations
B Tooling
Most PopularDie OD
30.16mm (1.1875")
Max Tablet
Up to 18.5mm
The standard choice for veterinary boluses, effervescent tablets, and large nutraceutical supplements. Uses the same punch barrel as BB tooling but a larger die OD.
- ·Veterinary boluses
- ·Effervescent tablets
- ·Large nutraceutical tablets
- ·Large confectionery mints
BB Tooling
Compact PressesDie OD
24mm (0.945")
Max Tablet
Up to 18.5mm
Compact tooling designed for presses that require smaller dies. The smaller die OD allows more stations per turret, increasing output per press revolution for small to medium tablets.
- ·High-volume pharmaceutical
- ·Small to medium tablets
- ·Compact press configurations
- ·High station count presses
DB Tooling
VersatileDie OD
30.16mm (B die)
Max Tablet
Up to 25mm
Uses B tooling dies with D tooling punch barrels. Allows you to produce tablets up to 25mm on a press designed for B tooling dies — the best of both standards.
- ·Large tablets on B presses
- ·Flexible press configurations
- ·Switching between standards
- ·Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical
Quick Comparison
| Standard | Die OD | Max Tablet | Punch Barrel | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D Tooling | 38.10mm | Up to 25mm | 25.4mm | Standard to large tablets — most common worldwide |
| B Tooling | 30.16mm | Up to 18.5mm | 19.0mm | Veterinary, effervescent, large nutraceuticals |
| BB Tooling | 24mm | Up to 18.5mm | 19.0mm | Compact presses, high station count |
| DB Tooling | 30.16mm (B die) | Up to 25mm | 25.4mm (D punch) | Large tablets on B tooling presses |
How to Choose the Right Tooling Standard
Check Your Press Manual
Your tablet press is designed for one specific tooling standard. Check the press manual or the manufacturer's specification sheet — it will state D, B, or BB tooling.
Measure Your Existing Dies
If you have existing tooling, measure the die outside diameter. 38mm = D tooling. 30mm = B tooling. 24mm = BB tooling.
Consider Your Tablet Size
If your tablet is larger than 18.5mm, you need D tooling. For tablets up to 18.5mm, any standard may work depending on your press.
Ask EMMKAY INDUSTRIES
Not sure? Share your press model or existing tooling dimensions with us. We will confirm the correct standard and recommend the right configuration.