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Extrusion Die with automated scan system

Custom Die Design for your Coating Application

Precision-Engineered Flow Uniformity with Proprietary Design Software

At Precision Die Systems, we leverage proprietary software to custom-design the internal flow geometry of each slot coating die and extrusion die. Our system uses customer-provided rheology data — or fluid samples we send to a certified lab — to model and optimize flow distribution across the die width. This ensures exceptional flatness and uniformity at the die lip exit, even for complex or high-viscosity fluids.

🧠 Why Rheology Matters in Die Design

Fluid rheology directly influences how material flows through a die. Without proper internal design, you may experience:

  • Peak or valley profiles

  • M-curve, W-curve, or S-curve distortions

  • Edge buildup or centerline thinning

  • Inconsistent coating thickness and product defects

 

Our software simulates these flow behaviors and automatically adjusts manifold geometry, flow paths, and lip design to eliminate distortion and achieve ±1% cross-web coating uniformity.

Designing for Multi-Fluid Coating Flexibility

We understand that many production lines require coating multiple fluids through the same die — whether for seasonal product changes, multi-step processes, or pilot-scale testing. Our proprietary software allows us to simulate and engineer die internals that accommodate diverse fluid rheologies without compromising coating uniformity or process stability.

Whether you're working with low-viscosity solvents, high-viscosity slurries, or reactive chemistries, we optimize:

  • Manifold geometry for balanced flow across all fluid types

  • Lip design to maintain coating bead stability across viscosity ranges

  • Internal channeling to reduce dead zones and prevent cross-contamination

  • Thermal management for temperature-sensitive formulations

📊 Real-World Validation

The below graph shows a real example of relative flow distribution across a fixed slot die. With a nominal gap of just 0.001", our design achieved near-perfect flatness — a critical factor for high-performance coatings in battery films, medical devices, and flexible packaging.

🔍 What Sets Us Apart

  • ✅ Data-driven die design using actual fluid rheology

  • 🧪 Lab testing available for unknown or proprietary fluids

  • 🧰 Custom internal geometries tailored to each application

  • 📐 Precision machining for mirror-finish surfaces and tight tolerances

  • 🔄 Iterative simulation and validation to eliminate guesswork

  • 🌍 Trusted by global manufacturers in regulated and high-growth industries

📦 Applications We Support

Relative Flow Distribution Example showing flatness to the lip exit

🧠 Slot Coating Die Design Process: From Fluid to Precision

At Precision Die Systems, every slot coating die is engineered with purpose — tailored to your fluid properties, coating requirements, and production goals. Our design process blends proprietary simulation software, hands-on expertise, and collaborative engineering to deliver dies that perform with exceptional flatness, uniformity, and repeatability.

🔍 Step 1: Application Discovery & Requirements Gathering

 

We begin by understanding your coating goals:

  • Target coating thickness and width

  • Substrate type and line speed

  • Fluid rheology (viscosity, surface tension, density)

  • Coating environment (temperature, humidity, cleanroom requirements)

  • Integration needs (pilot coater, production line, lab-scale setup)

 

Whether you're coating battery films, medical adhesives, or flexible packaging, we tailor every design to your specific use case.

🧪 Step 2: Rheology Data Collection & Analysis

 

To design the internal flow geometry, we need accurate fluid behavior:

  • You can provide rheology data directly

  • Or send fluid samples — we’ll coordinate certified lab testing

  • Our software models flow curves (peak, valley, M-curve, W-curve, S-curve) to identify risks and design corrections

 

This step ensures your die will deliver ±1% cross-web uniformity, even with challenging or multi-viscosity fluids.

🧰 Step 3: Internal Flow Simulation, Die Body & Internal Geometry Design

 

Using proprietary software, we simulate:

  • Manifold geometry for balanced flow distribution

  • Lip design (fixed, shimmed, adjustable) for coating bead control

  • Body Design (Overall size, internal pressure analysis, hinge and offset block features)

  • Channel dimensions to match fluid viscosity and throughput

  • Thermal management for temperature-sensitive coatings

 

We iterate designs to eliminate distortion and optimize coating flatness at the die lip exit.

📐 Step 4: Precision Machining & Surface Finishing

 

Once the design is validated, we manufacture the die using:

  • High-grade stainless steel or corrosion-resistant alloys

  • Mirror-polished coating surfaces (Ra < 0.05 µm)

  • Tight machining tolerances for repeatable performance

  • Optional quick-disassembly features for easy cleaning and changeover

 

Every die is built to withstand demanding production environments and deliver consistent results.

📊 Step 5: Validation, Documentation & Delivery

 

Before shipment, we provide:

  • Flow distribution graphs (like the one shown above)

  • Dimensional drawings and mounting specs

  • Cleaning and maintenance guidelines

  • Optional startup support or remote consultation

 

We ensure your die arrives ready to perform — whether for R&D, pilot testing, or full-scale production.

🔄 Bonus: Multi-Fluid Design Capability

 

Planning to run multiple fluids through one die? We’ve got you covered.

  • Simulate multiple rheologies in one design

  • Engineer internal geometry for fluid flexibility

  • Minimize changeover time and maximize coating consistency

  • Ideal for battery, medical, and packaging lines with evolving chemistries

🌍 Built for Innovation, Backed by Experience

 

Precision Die Systems is trusted by manufacturers worldwide for:

  • Slot coating dies with unmatched uniformity

  • Custom designs for regulated and high-growth industries

  • Engineering support that goes beyond the sale

Let’s design a die that works for your process — not just your product.

Custom Die Design

Manifold design and manufacturing process is what sets us apart from our competitors. We custom design every manifold for your exact fluid rheology to achieve superior coating coverage. Don't settle for cookie cutter designs that are not specific to your fluid.

Our team of experts can help you design a custom die and manifold to optimize process for your unique application. We understand that every project is different, and we work closely with our clients to ensure that their needs are met. With our state-of-the-art technology and years of experience, we can create a die is tailored to your exact specifications. Contact us today to learn more about our custom die services.

Custom Die Design

With our custom die design services, we can create a die that is tailored to your unique needs and specifications. Our team of experts will work closely with to ensure that the product meets all of your requirements and exceeds your expectations. Contact us today to learn more about services and how we help you with your die design needs.

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Our team has created custom die solutions for the world's largest manufacturers and brands since 1983 for any application. Ask experts about your die project now!

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