The pressure pads transfer the force applied by the extrusion stem to the billet. For this reason, they are always in contact with the billet throughout the extrusion process. They are subject to high temperatures and reach high local temperatures in the process.

The pressure pads must be cooled to normal temperature following extrusion. These tool components are subject to very high loads due to the high temperature fluctuations. High thermal stresses also occur on the edges when extruding with a shell.

Similar to the extrusion dies, distinction must be made between the extrusion of aluminium and heavy metals for the pressure pads.