Why Insert Pins Are Used in Die Casting (And How They Improve Tool Life)

Insert pins—also known as core pins or tool steel inserts—are critical components inside a die-casting mold.

While they may look like small interchangeable parts, they serve big roles in controlling part geometry, maintaining tolerance, and reducing overall tooling wear.

🔩 What Are Insert Pins?

Insert pins are removable hardened steel components placed inside the mold to form specific part features—like deep holes, bosses, or internal slots. Because they’re easily replaceable, they extend mold life without requiring full tool rework.

💡 Why Use Insert Pins?

1. Ease of Maintenance

   Pins wear faster than other tool components, especially at high-friction contact points. Replacing a worn pin is faster and cheaper than refurbishing the whole cavity.

2. Improved Cooling and Solidification

   Pins can be cooled separately, helping to control localized hot spots and improve dimensional accuracy.

3. Tighter Dimensional Control

   Features like holes are easier to control using pins, since they can be precisely machined and held to tight tolerances.

   
   

At LVIO Precision, we work with toolmakers to strategically place insert pins on critical part features—especially in high-wear zones or where customer drawings call for tight tolerances. This helps prolong mold service life and allows easier post-run servicing or part redesigns when needed.