The 'chase' is the part of a hot stamping press that holds the die securely during the stamping process.

Snap Chases :

Every Malahide press is shipped with at least 1 Snap Chase.  A proprietary chase design, Snap Chases are available in 4 widths: 1, 2, 3 or 4 inches wide.

Snap Chases work by clamping a spring-loaded side-bar against an 11 point die, which is cut to correspond with the width of the chase (ie: a 2" Snap Chase requires that it's die plates be cut to 2 inches wide).  The advantages of the Snap Chase design are many:

• Un-mounted die plates are less expensive than mounted dies
• Quick and easy to load and unload
• Warms-up quickly
• Several die plates can be combined in one chase & printed simultaneously

The Box Chase enables one to stamp mounted dies, type, Ludlow and Linotype.

Locking Quoins :

Quoins are used to lock mounted dies and type into a box chase.  An old-style trade technique, quoins speed and simplify repetitive die setups.

The quoin has a ratchet mechanism inside that causes it to expand when turned by the key tool.  When grouped in a box chase with mounted dies and furniture, the quoin is used to lock everything in place.

Quoins can be purchased from : Bar Plate

Clients who use Ludlow line type will appreciate our Ludlow line chase.  Ludlow slugs are simply pushed into the chase, where they are automatically clamped by spring-loaded ball-bearings.  Remove by pulling them out ~ no tools needed !

Changing Chases :

It is important to note that all chases are inter-changeable and affix to the heated platen with only 2 bolts. 
 

Legacy Die Systems :

Clients with existing hot stamping operations frequently have libraries of dies suited to other die making techniques.  Whatever standardized system you use now, Malahide has a way to tailor our machines to work with your existing dies.  Assuming your process was efficient, our goal will be to provide options on our machine to preserve your die investments.