What is the Difference Between Progressive Die and Transfer Die

In stamping production, progressive dies and transfer dies are two typical processing methods. Both can achieve automation, but they focus on different aspects. Understanding their differences helps in selecting the right processing method and improving efficiency. Now, let' s explore them together.

Processing Principle

Progressive Die Stamping starts with coil material. After being processed through an decoiler straightener feeder machine, the coil is fed into the press for stamping. A single press is equipped with one progressive die, which contains multiple stations inside the same die to complete different processing steps.

Transfer Die Stamping starts with sheet material. The sheets are extracted by a destacking system (or use a shearing machine after uncoiling and feeding), and a 3-axis transfer robot moves the material between stations inside the press to complete the stamping process. A single press is equipped with multiple separate dies, each performing a different operation.

Feature Comparison



1. Flexibility



Since a progressive die is pre-designed with fixed stations, its processing sequence is fixed and cannot be changed. In contrast, the station sequence in a transfer die setup can be adjusted according to actual production needs, making it more flexible than progressive die stamping.

2. Speed

In progressive die stamping, feeding is performed by a feeder, which operates with simple, continuous motion suitable for high-speed production. Transfer die stamping relies on a robot to complete a series of actions—gripping, lifting, shifting, lowering, and placing the workpiece, so its production speed is generally slower.

3. Forming Capability

Progressive dies have tightly arranged stations, and the limited internal space restricts their forming capability. Additionally, in a progressive die, the material is not separated into individual parts until the final station. This means that if the forming shape is too complex (such as deep drawing), it may interfere with material feeding. 

In comparison, transfer die stamping provides ample space, and the robot can freely handle the workpiece, enabling the processing of parts with more complex geometries.

Application Scenarios

The progressive die is suitable for processing thin, small, and structurally simple parts. Main examples: electronic hardware parts, small automotive components. The transfer die is suitable for processing medium-to-thick, medium-to-large, and structurally complex parts. Main examples: large automotive structural components, deep-drawn parts.