The process of metal stamping and forming has evolved over the years. Although it is a long-used practice, various modifications have been engaged to make the process flawless and very efficient.
In this article, we will go over some of the things you should know about the process. This is important considering that the process of metal stamping and forming is needed in various sectors.
So, sit back and stay with us as we walk you through the entire process. First, we will start by defining what metal stamping is.
What Is Metal Stamping?
This is a process that helps convert sheet metals into the various forms they are needed. Stamping presses and dies are extensively used to do this.
The process is such that the sheet metals (which are also known as blanks) are fitted right into a metallic stamping press. As a result of the structure of the equipment which includes die and tool surface, the shape required is eventually made out of the sheet metals.
Several things determine the eventual shape. Some of them include the:
- Design Prototype
- The features of the die sections used
- The amount of pressure applied in shaping the product
- The general quality of metal stamping services used for production
Some Advantages of the Procedure
Several advantages come with making items with this process. Listed and explained below are some of them:
It Is Cost-Effective
For us, this advantage tops the list. Without this process, the cost of producing metallic items of various shapes in various industries will be unbearable for manufacturers and consumers alike.
It Guarantees High-Volume Production of Items
With all of the techniques and processes that this procedure entails, it can guarantee that a large volume of products will be manufactured. This also explains why the process is inexpensive when compared to what is obtainable without it.
High-Speed Manufacture of Products
Not only are the shaped metals produced in high volumes and cheaply, all these happen very quickly. You will be amazed at how timely the industry of metal stamping and forming has become over the years.
Flawless Production
Especially when the procedure is conducted by a capable metal stamping service, the chances of having mistakes are very slight.
It is for this reason that clients in the automobile, aviation, defense, medical, and other facets choose to engage the services of capable players in the industry.
Some Basic Techniques
There are several techniques and processes that are engaged when metal stamping and forming happens. The use of these techniques is dependent on the sort of job that is being carried out.
So, while some jobs may require a detailed use of several techniques, others may simply make use of only a few. It all depends on the project at hand. Having explained this, some of the common techniques or processes engaged in the metal stamping and forming procedure includes the following:
Punching
The punching technique can be sometimes mistaken for the blanking technique and this is why you should understand the difference. The major difference is what is ultimately used as the material.
Punching suggests that a hole is created in the sheet stationed in the die. The scrap from the hole is done away with and further actions are carried out.
Blanking
As explained above, you have to be careful not to mistake the punching technique for the blanking technique. In the latter, what you would consider the scrap is what is worked on and made into the desired shaped item.
Embossing
This process intends to make a recessed or raised design in the sheet metal that is worked on. To achieve this, the usual procedure will involve applying a defined amount of pressure on the blank. This is strategically done when it is in contact with a die that has the desired shape.
However, this is not the only way the technique can be conducted. This is since it can also happen when the roller die goes through the material blank.
Coining
This technique is used to achieve bends that are repeatable and accurate. To do this, the actual workpiece has to be stamped when situated between the press/punch and the die.
This is also important in making sure that the material can deal with internal stresses that are caused by the entire stamping and forming procedure. In other words, it is an effective way to deal with spring-back effects.
Bending
This is not used on every material. It is mainly used when the intention is to achieve a product that fits certain design profiles. For instance, it is a very effective way of making sure sheet metals eventually fit into the U, V, or L profile.
Unlike many other techniques, this involves plastic deformation. It ensures that the sheet metal undergoes a certain degree of stress. Specifically, it should be less than what the tensile strength can handle but beyond the yield point.
Flanging
Using presses, special flanging machinery, or dies, this technique ensures that a flange or flare is introduced to the metal sheet that is worked upon.
About Metal Stamping Machines
The machines are central to how the procedure ultimately unfolds. This is why you have to deal with a service provider that has the right equipment and qualified hands to handle them.
These machines are used to carry out several stamping techniques. However, they can do way more than this. Some of the other things that can be achieved using these machines include:
- Punching
- Cutting
- Casting
- Shaping
Furthermore, the machines may be programmed to ensure top-notch repeatability and flawless precision for every stamping metal piece.
An example of how this happens is through a computer numerically controlled program (CNC). To know more about this program, you can visit: https://learn.org/articles/What_is_CNC_Programming.html
Additionally, programs that are computer-aided, as well as electrical discharged machining (EDM), make certain that there is accuracy. This is why you need to work with a stamping service that has all these and more to offer.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed some of the benefits of the metal stamping and forming procedure. Additionally, some of the techniques and the reasons they are engaged have been discussed.
Considering that the machinery is a very important factor in the quality of the products that will be eventually made, we advise that you deal with a company that has the right machinery and hands to handle them.