The service life of tools in metal forming technology is to a large extent limited by wear and fatigue fracture of the active elements. This presents a basic request for tool cost minimization and reduction of extensive machine down time, caused by premature tool failure. Currents developments are dominated by steps to reduce the causes of tool failure. A main problem of forming technology remains the insufficient reliability of tools due to a large and incalculable life time fluctuation. Only a systematic investigation of the failure mechanisms and operational loading of tools can lead to future improvements in tool layout, that is optimization of tool usage.