One of the most common metal processing techniques is sheet metal punching, which utilizes an automated CNC machine. The punching is developed from the presses and dies working to create holes of any size and shape on the sheet metal. Here is a more in-depth look at how metal punching works at a CNC machine shop.
How Does This Metal Fabrication Process Work?
Metal punching involves passing a sheet of metal through a CNC machine’s presses and dies. The former is located at the top, and it punches the desired fabrication into the piece of metal, while the latter works as the support to prevent the sheet of metal from breaking under the force. In addition to this, the dies hold the sheet of metal in position to ensure that the punches create error-free holes. As a result, the CNC machine can accurately realize any shape or design on a sheet of metal depending on the needs.
Which Metals Are Suitable for Punching?
The art of sheet metal punching has advanced a lot over the last few years. Thanks to increased knowledge of the field and the introduction of more advanced machines, nearly all metals can be punched. These metals include iron, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass and most of their special alloys. As a result, metal punching is currently being utilized in numerous fields, including automotive, textiles, electronics, manufacturing and engineering.
Do You Require Different Punches for Each Shape and Hole?
You don’t need to use different punches to achieve different shapes, hole sizes and designs. This means that if you need some particular shapes and designs fabricated in a few sheets of metals, you don’t have to purchase a specific mold. You can combine the dies that you already have to do the fabrication. Let’s say you need circular holes in your sheet of metal, and all you have are oval punches; you can combine the oval punches to create circular punches.
How Long Can Dies Last?
Most punching tools available at any CNC machine shop have a medium tool life between 400,000 and 600,000 strokes. However, there are several ways to ensure that your punching tools have a longer life. Firstly, always make sure that you lubricate your punching tools sufficiently. Moreover, once you are done using them, clean them properly with compressed air and clean rags to remove dirt and debris. Additionally, regularly check the cutting edge of the die and punch and proceed to sharpen them if necessary. Lastly, make sure that you fabricate the suitable materials using the right amount of machine power.
Do You Need Help With Sheet Metal Punching?
We, Metal Pro, Inc, are the market-leading fabricator job shop in Phoenix, Arizona, and the surrounding areas. We launched our operations more than two decades ago, and our services include tee rolling, plasma and flame cutting, channel tube piping, metal stamping and angle irons. Our shop has top-rated CNC plasma cutting machines, sheering tools and press brakes. We are open from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, and by appointment only on the weekends. Call us today and receive expert metal punching and machining services.