Die

A device used to reduce the size of wire, it consists of five sections: 1) the bell radius and entrance angle, which direct the flow of lubricant; 2) the reduction/approach angle, which is where the entire reduction-in-area and compacting of lubricant onto the incoming wire occur; 3) the bearing, which controls the final diameter of the wire to guarantee roundness, straightness and finish; 4) the back relief, a conical area that strengthens the exit of the die and prevents breakage of the nib; and 5), the exit zone. The number of dies can range from a single die to a string of 35 dies. The die material can range from tungsten carbide to natural, monocrystal and polycrystalline diamond. Most dies draw round wire but they can also be used to draw shaped wire.