Customizing Your Product Using Metal Stamping

What is Metal Stamping and its Benefits

Metal stamping is a manufacturing process that converts metal sheets into different shapes. The process is complex and it includes several metal forms and techniques. The techniques include blanking, punching, bending, and piercing just to name a few.

Many US companies offer these stamping services for industrial size pieces and tools. They also produce large quantities of complex parts. The stamping process is considered the best and cost-effective when it comes to large quantity manufacturing needs. For manufacturers who need these types of stampings, they look for Durability, low cost, and fast timing.

Stamping which is also known as pressing is when you use a flat sheet of metal which will be either a coil or blank form in a stamping press. Before the material can be done stamping professionals use design tools through engineering technology. These designs have to be precise to ensure each shape is properly measured to get the best results. The designing tools are usually 3-D models and can contain hundreds of parts which is what makes the process very complex.

There are four types of metal stamping which include, progressive die stamping, four-slide, and deep draw. All of these stampings are unique and highly used. These designs are usually featured in numerous workstations and possess unique functions.

Progressive die stamping

Progressive die stamping is when strip metal is fitted through a progressive stamping press. The strip carefully unrolls from a coil into a die press. Each tool in the station uses a different cut, punch, or bend. Due to the complexity of this stamp press manufacturers may have to continuously change the tool because each tool is performing one action required for that part. Progressive die stamping is considered the most common use because it has a fast turnaround, shorter run length, and lower labor costs.

Deep draw stamping

The deep draw is when you pull a sheet of blank metal into the die via a punch. This is the way it is formed into a shape. This method is considered deep drawing and is when the depth of the drawn part exceeds its diameter. This type of Stamping is ideal for components that need several series of diameters. This is also a cost-effective stamping and is also an alternative to the turning process which would use more raw material.

Four slide Stamping

Four slide stamping also known as multi-slide has horizontal alignment and four different slides. There are four tools that are used at the same time to shape the piece. In this process, manufacturers can create intricate cuts and complex beams that develop into even more complex parts. This type of technique is best for versatile parts and more flexibility.

Short-run stamping

Short-run stamping may be best for prototypes and small projects. The reason being is that it requires minimum tool expenses. After the blank is created, manufacturers combine custom tools and die inserts to bend, punch, or drill the part. This stamping technique is more cost-efficient due to the absence of a tool cost and has a swift turnaround. Since it is a custom forming operation and smaller run size, there is a higher per piece charge.

Lastly, metal stamping is for industrial parts. The technique includes blanking, punching, bending, and piercing. There are four types of these stamping which include deep draw stamping, four-slide stamping, progressive die stamping, and short-run stamping. All of these are very cost-efficient and make tools and parts quickly. Although, there is a quick turnaround the process is very complex. These stamping techniques are great for creating large quantities of parts.