The rotary dies produced at Avis RD are high precision tools.  As with any precision tool, proper care and handling will ensure the maximum life and use.

The following list contains important information which, if followed, can greatly improve and maintain the quality of your cutting dies.

• Never handle dies while wearing rings, bracelets or wrist watches
• Empty your shirt pockets before leaning over a die to minimize the possibility of something falling from your pocket onto the blades
• Never touch the die blades with any metal objects
• Avoid storing dies on the floor
• Always store dies in die box
• Always keep die boxes in "like new"condition. This will ensure maximum protection for stored dies.
• If a die box is broken or torn, discard the box and use a new box
• Never allow a die to rust. A good premium-grade synthetic oil mixed half & half with an oil additive can be used to coat the die and  help prevent moisture from condensing on it
• Always keep the bearer surfaces well lubricated while using a die
• Wear leather gloves when handling dies to avoid injury
• When handling a heavy die, always use appropriate lifting equipment and/or additional personnel to ensure absolute control of movements and prevent  the possibility of damage or injury
• Always prepare surface on which die is to be placed by clearing away any debris and laying down a soft material such as a thick rubber mat or piece of carpeting.
• Never place unprotected dies on any unprotected surface
• Always place (brace) die in such a manner that it will not move on its own volition.
• Always keep anvil(s) in top condition. A worn anvil can cause damage to your dies.
• Never drop die onto anvil roll. Let die down gently until it rests on anvil
• Replace worn or damaged gears on dies, anvils and print cylinders/plate rolls
• Never apply excessive pressure to die. Minimum required pressure should always be utilized.  NEVER USE A PIPE WRENCH TO APPLY MORE PRESSURE!!
• Use pressure load cells to monitor pressure applied to die
• Always use bearer wipers, which must be kept lubricated and replaced when worn.
• All tooling must be kept clean, including drive gears.

With the proper training of press operators and die handlers, religious adherence to the above points will help to provide maximum life and performance of tooling.