Progressive dies are used to transform flan strips of metal into a formed part. This transformation is performed progressively by a series of stations that cut, coin, form and bend the material into the desired shape. The progressive dies that perform the various operations on the material are unique for every design. The various components that make up the die are located and guided in precision cut openings in plates, which are in turn located and guided by pins. The entire die is actuated by a mechanical press that moves the die up and down while also feeding the material through the die, progressing it from one station, to the next, with each stroke.