A metal stamping press is a manufacturing machine that shapes and forms metal sheets or strips into desired shapes and sizes. It applies high force and pressure to deform a workpiece. The machine consists of a sturdy frame, a power source, a ram or a slide, and a die set. Its size and capacity vary from small, manually operated devices to large, automated hydraulic or mechanical presses.
Clairon Metals is a specialized company that provides high-quality metal stamping solutions. We offer various services and have multiple stamping presses, ensuring our ability to handle different types of dies, coils, and material thicknesses. Our tonnage range extends from 35 to 1100 tons, allowing us to take on any project.
How Does a Standard Metal Stamping Press Work?
The metal stamping process begins with a flat metal sheet or strip fed into the machine. The sheet is positioned between the die’s upper and lower parts, which contain cavities and shapes corresponding to the desired final product.
When the press is activated, the power source — hydraulic, mechanical, or pneumatic — generates the necessary force. The force is then transmitted to the ram or slide, which moves downward with significant pressure onto the sheet. This causes the metal to deform and take the shape of the cavities in the die set.
Depending on the die’s design and the final product’s requirements, the machine can perform various operations. These may include blanking, bending, piercing, embossing, or coining. The press may also have additional features, such as automatic feeding systems or sensors, to ensure precise positioning and consistent production.
Types of Metal Stamping Presses and Their Capabilities
Metal stamping presses come in various types, each with unique capabilities and advantages. Here are some of the most commonly used types in the manufacturing industry:
Mechanical Presses
Also called power presses, mechanical presses are widely used due to their high speed and precision. They utilize a flywheel system to generate and deliver force to the ram. This makes them suitable for various machining applications, including blanking, piercing, bending, and forming.
Although they are known for their fast cycle times, they may require more setup time for die changes.
Hydraulic Presses
These presses use hydraulic systems to generate and control force. They are often preferred for forming operations needing precise control, as they allow for greater speed, force, and dwell time regulation. Hydraulic presses deliver adjustable and consistent power throughout the stroke, applicable for deep drawing, coining, and other tasks requiring even pressure distribution.
Servo Presses
Servo presses combine the advantages of mechanical and hydraulic systems using advanced servo motor technology. They provide precise control over the slide motion, allowing for flexibility in stroke length, speed, and force modulation. Furthermore, they are highly versatile and can be programmed for complex and variable operations. Their applications include electronics and automotive components.
Progressive Die Presses
These machines are intended for high-speed production of stamped parts with multiple operations. They incorporate a series of dies along a strip or coil feed line, enabling continuous and sequential stamping. Each die performs a specific procedure as the metal strip moves through the press until the final part is produced. Hence, progressive die presses can perform operations such as piercing, forming, and cutting in a single pass.
Transfer Presses
Transfer presses are used for stamping large and complex parts. They feature a mechanical or hydraulic transfer system that moves the workpiece between multiple stations or tools. This makes them highly applicable in the automotive industry for producing components like car body panels. They are also suitable in applications necessitating multiple forming and piercing operations.
Common Metal Stamping Processes
Metal stamping offers a versatile and efficient means of manufacturing parts and components in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical. Stamping comprises different techniques employed to shape and manipulate metal sheets or strips. Here are some examples of the most prevalent methods utilized in the industry:
Blanking
Blanking cuts out flat shapes from a metal sheet. It serves as the stamping operation’s initial step and establishes the desired component’s fundamental outline. A specialized cutting tool (punch) is utilized with a corresponding die during this process. These two elements work to remove the designated area of the sheet or strip, resulting in the desired flat shape.
Piercing
Also called punching, piercing creates holes or openings in the workpiece. It uses specialized punches and dies to remove a specific portion of the material. The punch typically has a sharp edge or cutting profile specific to the final product’s configuration. This results in the desired holes, slots, or other defined shapes.
Bending
Bending deforms the material to create angles or curves. It is accomplished by utilizing machining punches and dies that apply pressure and force the metal to conform to the desired shape. The punch features a contoured edge or profile that matches the angle or curve to be formed. On the other hand, the die provides support and acts as a counterpoint against which the workpiece is bent.
Drawing
Drawing is the process of transforming a flat metal sheet or strip into a three-dimensional shape. It works by positioning the material between a punch and a die and using the movement of the punch to stretch the metal. This method can be a single-stage process or performed in multiple stages, depending on the part’s complexity and the desired precision level.
Coining
The coining process creates intricate and highly detailed features on the surface of a metal part. It applies substantial force to the workpiece, which causes it to flow into the die’s precise and intricate contours. The complex features of the punch shift to the surface, resulting in accurate and finely detailed impressions.
Progressive Stamping
In progressive stamping, a strip is continuously fed through sequential stations within a press. Each station has a specialized tool or die that performs a specific operation on the material. As it advances through the stations, every procedure is completed in a consecutive and synchronized manner. This allows for the progressive transformation of the workpiece into the desired part.
The Importance of Proper Training and Safety Precautions in Metal Stamping
Proper training and adherence to safety precautions are paramount in the stamping industry. A metal stamping press’s operation involves handling heavy materials, powerful forces, and high-speed movements. Without proper training, operators may be at risk of accidents, injuries, or damage to equipment.
Training programs ensure that workers have a comprehensive understanding of the stamping process. These may include press operation, tooling setup, material handling, and safety protocols. They should learn to interpret technical specifications, identify potential hazards, and respond effectively to emergencies.
Meanwhile, adherence to safety precautions is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment. This includes implementing safety guards and devices on the metal stamping press like interlocks, light curtains, and emergency stop buttons. Furthermore, communication and clear signage are vital in conveying safety information and warning operators about potential risks.
Partner With Clairon Metals for Reliable Stamping Solutions
At Clairon Metals, we are dedicated to providing top-notch metal stamping services for various industries! Our state-of-the-art facility has different stamping presses, ensuring that we can handle all project sizes. Whether you require intricate precision parts or large-scale components, our versatile machines and capabilities can deliver the desired results.
Contact us today for solutions that prioritize precision and reliability! You can also request a quote now.