Shimmy Die Trim Tooling
Burr-Free & High-Precision Shimmy Trimming
Brehm® Shimmy™ Dies provide superior speed and accuracy for trimming stamped / drawn parts.
High production die can be used in conjunction with part transfer system and incorporated into a progressive die for high volume applications. Shimmy Dies are versatile; use the same basic die for new parts by simply ordering new adapters, which is much less costly than building a new die.
Tolerances are approximately ±0.001″.
Why Use Shimmy Dies in the Deep Draw Process?
In high-volume deep draw manufacturing, the most difficult stage is often the final trim. Because deep drawing stretches metal into three-dimensional shapes (like cans, shells, or housings), traditional vertical trimming often leaves distorted edges or requires expensive cam-action tooling.
Our shimmy die solutions solve common deep draw challenges:
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Complex Flange Trimming: Easily handle irregular or non-planar trim lines on cylindrical, square, or rectangular deep drawn shells.
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Burr-Free Results: By utilizing a horizontal “shimmy” motion, the die shears the metal cleanly, significantly reducing the need for manual deburring.
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Varying Wall Thickness: Deep drawing can cause “thinning” near the top of the part. Our dies are adjustable to ensure a perfect cut regardless of material flow variations
- Reduced Setup Time: Easier adjustments and fewer complex components allow for quicker changeovers between part variations.
Advantages
High Production
Achieve exceptional production rates with the ability to process up to 1,350 round shells per hour. For large, irregularly shaped parts and tubes, the capacity reaches up to 300 per hour, while motor housing covers can be trimmed at a rate of over 600 per hour.
efficient
Streamline your operations with one-stroke trimming, designed to handle notches, curves, irregular shapes, and more with precision and speed.
Production savings
Save on costs by using the same basic die for new parts. Simply adapt it with different tooling adapters to accommodate changing production needs.
No Burrs
Ensure superior quality with clean, smooth trims that are free of burrs, distortions, or unsightly pinch-trim die marks, reducing the need for secondary finishing.
Easy Integration
Seamlessly integrate the system into your existing metal stamping operations, including part transfer systems and progressive dies, for a smooth and efficient workflow.
LONG PRODUCTION LIFE
Maximize the lifespan of your dies with easy sharpening by grinding, keeping them in top condition for consistent, reliable performance.
What are the Benefits of a Shimmy Trim over a Pinch Trim?
Shimmy Trim controls flatness
In addition, notches and tabs can be incorporated into the trim function.
Shimmy Trim results in burr free parts
This eliminates the need for secondary de-burring operations.
Shimmy Trim is more precise
With consistent parts tolerances can be held as close as .001″.
Ideal For
PRISMATIC & CYLINDRICAL BATTERY CELL HOUSING
MOTOR HOUSING COVERS
CHASSIS
FRAME RAILS
SUPPORT RAILS
TITANIUM HOUSINGS
MEDICAL PARTS
CROSS-MEMBERS
FAQ: Shimmy Dies in Deep Draw Production
What is a shimmy die and how does it work for deep drawn parts?
A Shimmy Die is a specialized trimming tool that uses a horizontal “shimmy” motion to shear metal from the inside out. Unlike standard vertical presses that cut downward, a shimmy die moves laterally in four directions. This allows it to trim the excess “fringe” or “flash” off a deep drawn shell or cup in a single press stroke, leaving a perfectly square, burr-free edge.
Why is a shimmy die better than pinch trimming for deep drawing?
Pinch trimming often leaves a sharp, tapered edge or a slight “roll” on the part because it relies on vertical compression. Shimmy dies provide a true horizontal shear, which maintains a 90-degree edge squareness and consistent wall thickness. Additionally, shimmy dies are significantly more durable for high-volume runs, as they don’t suffer the same “rounding” wear that pinch-trimming steels do.
Can shimmy dies handle square or irregular deep drawn shapes?
Shimmy dies are highly effective for square, rectangular, and even complex elliptical deep drawn components. Because the “shimmy” action can be customized to the part’s geometry, it can trim corners and flat sides with the same precision as a round diameter.
What are the material thickness limits for shimmy die trimming?
Shimmy dies are incredibly versatile and can typically handle materials ranging from 0.005″ to 0.250″ (0.127mm to 6.35mm), depending on the press capacity and the shear strength of the metal. They are commonly used for stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and high-strength alloys used in deep draw applications.
How does using a shimmy die reduce overall production costs?
The primary cost saving comes from eliminating secondary operations. Traditionally, deep drawn parts might require a separate lathe trim, CNC operation, or manual deburring to achieve a finished edge. A shimmy die completes this work inside the stamping press at high speeds, reducing labor costs, shortening lead times, and lowering the total cost-per-part.
