7 Ways to Cut Tooling Cost Without Hurting Capability

Chasing the cheapest insert rarely lowers CPC. The winners reduce cost per part while protecting capability.

The seven that work

• Standardise SKUs: fewer variants = better pricing, simpler training, faster changeovers.
• Edge prep matching: duty-matched hones/chamfers reduce chipping → life ↑.
• Quick-change cartridges: preserve alignment, cut changeover minutes.
• Two windows: rough fast, finish stable; stop compromising both.
• In-process gauging: offsets before scrap; probe masters to control drift.
• Coolant stewardship: pressure/flow/aim + filtration = better Ra, longer life.
• Runout discipline: ≤3–5 μm at gauge length; balance assemblies (G2.5).

What to measure monthly

• CPC, PPM, changeover minutes/shift, Ra stability, Cp/Cpk trend.

Lock the gains

Bake windows and wear rules into SOPs; audit them quarterly; tie replenishment to consumption.

Sigma’s contribution: audits + playbooks + quick-change standards + coolant kits + before/after CPC reports—savings you can show your CFO.