Metal stamping is the process of using tools and dies to turn raw sheets of metal into components for various applications. Flat sheets of metal, generally called blanks, are fed into the stamping press. The press uses a die surface with different tools to perform various operations on the metal and form a new component.
Metal stamping manufacturers generally place the raw material between sections of the die. The intense pressure applied within the die and press will manipulate and reshape the material to get a predetermined shape as the final output.
Progressive and Every Other Stamping Process You Should Know:
There are many metal stamping processes in the market. Each of them requires different equipment, timeframes and gives varying types of output. The ultimate goal of any metalworking process is to create parts that a wide range of industries can use. From metal screws and paper clips to surgical tools and springs, metal stamping produces high-quality output and explores new possibilities for highly versatile metal components.
Recommended – A Brief Guide To Metal Stamping Die And How Metal Stamping Shapes Everyday Products
Here are the three most popular metal stamping processes:
Deep Drawn Stamping:
Deep drawing is a method where a punch pulls the raw material into the die to create a cavity or hollow component. The key prerequisite is that the depth or height of this product should be greater than the diameter.
The key advantage of deep drawing is that you can create multiple diameters for every part. It is also highly cost-effective, especially when compared to traditional stamping techniques, and requires less raw material as well. Some of the applications for deep drawn stamping are automobiles, aircraft and cookware utensils.
Progressive Die Stamping:
Progressive stamping uses the process of the assembly line. First, the material goes in the press, passing through several stages and stations. Once the raw metal strip unrolls into the stamping press, each station progressively performs a single operation on the component. Progressive die stamping is ideal for components that are complex in nature. It helps manufacture a larger quantity of products in lesser time with high repeatability. One example of an item produced using progressive die stamping is a soda can’s lid.
Suggested – A Brief Guide about PCB Design and Testing
Transfer Press Stamping:
This stamping process is similar to progressive stamping and includes several operations to arrive at a finished component. However, there’s one key difference between them. In progressive stamping, the raw material is manually moved from station to station, while transfer press stamping uses a mechanical arm. Also, progressive die stamping requires secondary operations and processes while transfer stamping encompasses ribs, threading, cut-outs and holes.
Secondary operations:
Credible metal manufacturers and suppliers help clients along every step of the production process. They provide operations like EDM cutting, drilling, welding, electroplating and heat treating. With so many options for operations in place, you see a reduced turnaround time, ensure the cost-effectiveness of your projects and get assured quality throughout the process.
Interesting Post– 10 Highest Paying IT Jobs
Applications of Metal Stamping Processes:
Metal stamping has a wide range of applications across global industries, particularly products that have 3D lettering, designs and surface engraving functionalities. Automotive, OEM, military, medical, aerospace, telecom and home appliance industries generally choose these stamping products. There’s a high chance you’ll find several products around you that have been made using metal stampings.
If you want to get into more detail about the specific components and products made using metal stampings, you’ll find a lot. Metal stamping creates simple products like springs, clips, washers, weights, brackets and braces to designs more complicated like friction plates or engine bases. This process produces highly intricate small components as well as large parts used in aircraft or aerospace equipment.
Additionally, Custom box printing – Easy Ways To Make Best Packaging With Minimum Resources
Electronic stampings are another wide application of metal stampings parts. They refer to electronic parts made using metal stampings. These parts are used across several domains within this industry, from home appliances and electronics to aerospace and telecommunication equipment. Electronic stamping parts come in several metals like copper, aluminum and steel, various alloys of these metals, as well as several precious metals like gold and platinum. Electronic parts made using metal stampings encompasses contacts, terminals, springs, pins and lead frames. There are also several applications for it in electronic equipment, computers and medical equipment.
There is no single right or wrong way to create a component. It all depends on your business needs and your project budget. Find a metal stamping partner that understands your requirements and has the capabilities to meet your needs.
