In some applications, a decorated part is cut with either a hard tool or a steel rule die, while other applications require a combined configuration. Further, nontraditional tools such as digital and laser cutters are sometimes most suitable. Hard tools employ a pair of dies which work together in a machine press to cut the shapes of the features found within a finished part, as well as the outside edges of the part itself. If tolerances above 0.005 in. are acceptable, a steel rule die is often used for cutting. If the cutout feature within an instrument display panel is visible to the consumer, the edges must be virtually flawless, making a hard tool the tool of choice.
Hard tools are also most appropriate when cut-out designs are intricate.
In some situations, edge quality is critical in certain areas of a part and less critical in other areas. If so, alternative cutting options, such as a combination hard tool and steel rule die, are often worth consideration. When planning volumes, a large production run may dictate the need for a hard tool rather than a steel rule die simply because the tool's sturdy construction provides more consistency for high-tolerance cuts. It is also important to consider finished part turnaround times as it can take up to six weeks to design a hard tool. Steel rule dies Steel rule dies are made of steel bands that are first formed and set into soft material to form a die.