SHELL PRESS, AND DIE ASSEMBLY AND ASSOCIATED METHOD THEREFOR

摘要

A die assembly is provided, which is structured to be affixed to a shell press. The die assembly includes at least one die shoe having first and second opposing ends, and a number of divisions between the first end and the second end. The divisions are structured to divide the at least one die shoe into a plurality of pieces to accommodate thermal expansion. Each of the divisions between the pieces of the at least one die shoe has a profile. Preferably, the profile is not straight. Each of the divisions of the at least one die shoe form a gap between the pieces of the die shoe, thereby spacing the pieces apart from one another. The pieces are independently coupled to a corresponding mounting surface of the shell press. A shell press and a method for employing the die assembly in a shell press are also disclosed.