We are proud to announce that our innovative R&C BLOCK for adjustable drawing dies has been granted European Patent EP 4 484 028.
The patented solution introduces a new way of connecting the cemented carbide insert to the steel holder, eliminating the need for brazing and improving the performance of wire and bar drawing tools.
The limits of brazed carbide inserts
In traditional adjustable drawing dies, cemented carbide inserts are typically fixed to the steel holder through brazing.
Although widely used in tungsten carbide tooling, brazing presents several well-known limitations:
- thermal stresses generated during the heating cycle
- local reduction of steel hardness
- residual internal stresses in the assembly
- risk of cracks in harder tungsten carbide grades
- impossibility of applying CVD coatings due to the high brazing temperatures
In demanding wire drawing and bar drawing applications, these factors may affect reliability, durability and design flexibility.
The innovation: a fully mechanical locking system
The patented R&C BLOCK eliminates brazing entirely.
The cemented carbide insert is connected to the steel holder through a 100% mechanical locking system, based on three combined elements:
- Longitudinal dovetail coupling
Provides permanent lateral stability between insert and holder. - Longitudinal taper of insert and seat
Prevents any forward movement during the drawing process. - Rear mechanical locking with screws
Ensures structural rigidity while allowing controlled disassembly when required.
The result is a stable and precise mechanical interference system, specifically designed for high-load drawing applications.
Advantages for wire and bar drawing applications
This new architecture offers significant benefits for drawing die performance:
- no thermal alteration of the steel holder
- constant hardness and dimensional stability
- higher structural reliability
- freedom to select the most suitable cemented carbide grade
- possibility to remove the insert for CVD coating treatments
- cost optimization compared to full carbide solutions
The R&C BLOCK combines the structural strength of steel with the superior wear resistance of cemented carbide, overcoming the typical limitations of brazed systems.
Discover the R&C BLOCK at Wire & Tube 2026
The new R&C BLOCK will be officially presented at Wire & Tube 2026, the leading international exhibition for the wire and tube industry.
Scleros will exhibit the product at Stand 11H60, where visitors will be able to see the solution in person and discuss technical applications with our engineering team.
To schedule a meeting during the exhibition, please contact info.scleros@omcd.it.