Tolerances: Tolerances refer to the acceptable amount of variation in a product’s dimensions. For example, a tolerance of ±0.005 inches means a part can be slightly larger or smaller by that amount without compromising its functionality. Tight tolerances are especially important in industries like electronics, automotive, or medical, where even the smallest misalignment can cause a component to fail or a machine to malfunction.
Dits: Dits represent the distance between impressions during the die-cutting process. Properly calculated dits ensure that materials are used efficiently, reducing waste and cutting costs. Poorly spaced impressions can result in wasted material, higher production costs, and uneven quality in the finished products.
Our Dits and Tolerance Calculator is designed to make the process of planning your die-cutting project simple and stress-free. Follow these steps to get started:
| Download the File |
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| Click the Download button to get access to the free Excel spreadsheet. The file is lightweight and compatible with all major spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and LibreOffice. |
| Input Your Project Details |
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Open the file and fill out the input fields with your specific project requirements. The spreadsheet is pre-formatted for simplicity, so you can focus on what matters most. Here’s what you’ll need to provide:
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| Review the Results | |
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| Once you’ve entered all the required inputs, the calculator will automatically generate results to guide your decision-making. | |
| Tolerance Feasibility | See if your desired tolerance is achievable based on material thickness. If the tolerance exceeds limits, you’ll be alerted so you can adjust your project specifications. |
| Material Compatibility | Ensure your chosen material meets the requirements for rotary or flatbed presses. Incompatible materials will be flagged, helping you avoid costly mistakes. |
| Max Dits per Row | Check how many impressions can fit across the width of the material roll. This helps maximize material usage and reduce waste. |
| Estimate Lead Time | Get an estimate of how long production will take based on your quantity and specifications. |
Pro Tip: Not sure what to input or have questions about specific variations of some of the materials listed? Contact us, and we’ll guide you through the process. Our team will help you fine-tune your specifications to achieve the best results.
Or call Josh at (707) 769-4488
Yes! The calculator is designed to handle tolerances for both rotary and flatbed die-cutting presses:
The calculator flags incompatible tolerances to help you choose the best option for your project
Material thickness is a critical input for determining tolerance feasibility. The calculator cross-references your material’s thickness with the capabilities of rotary and flatbed presses to ensure your specifications are achievable. For example:
Thin plastics: Tighter tolerances (±0.003–0.005 inches) are feasible.
Dense foams: Greater tolerances (±0.005–0.01 inches) may be required.
If the thickness exceeds the press’s capabilities, the calculator will notify you.
Not at all! The spreadsheet is designed to be user-friendly. You’ll simply need to input your project details (e.g., material type, dimensions, and desired tolerances), and the calculator will do the rest. If you encounter any issues, our team is available to assist you.
If your desired tolerances aren’t feasible based on your material or press type, the calculator will flag the issue. In such cases, you can revise your specifications (e.g., choose a different material or relax the tolerance slightly) or contact our team for guidance—we’ll help you find a solution that meets your project requirements.
Our processes are designed to deliver precision results:
We use advanced equipment and quality control measures to ensure every part meets your exact specifications.
Once you’ve input your project details and reviewed the results, you can use the data to complete our quote request form (linked below the download button). Then, attach the spreadsheet or share your key project details (e.g., material, dimensions, quantity). Our team will review your request and provide a tailored quote within 1–2 business days.
We’ve served a wide range of industries, including:
If your industry isn’t listed, let us know! We’re happy to explore custom solutions for your needs.
Our team is here to help! If you’re unsure about any part of the results. Contact us via using the short form, or give us a call at (800) 346-9296.
Dits and tolerances calculations are the foundation of a successful project. Tolerance checks ensure that the materials in use are the best fit for both process and application. Dits calculations maximize material usage and minimize waste. At Colvin-Friedman, they are part of the expert foundation we’ve developed in more than 70 years of service to the most demanding industries, including medical devices, electronics or more.
If you have specific questions about producing a component after performing these initial calculations, call our Vice President Josh Rodman at (707) 769-4488 or fill out the short quote request form. We look forward to partnering with you so you can ramp up your production efforts.
Or call Josh at (707) 769-4488
