Large enterprises often require product components to be built in large numbers according to a set of predetermined specifications. Manufacturing industrial parts tailored to individual specifications needs precision and accuracy, which can be achieved through precision metal stamping.

 

In 2019, the international market for metal stamping was worth $220 billion. Its revenue is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 2.8% from 2020 to 2027. But what is precision metal stamping? Does your business really need it?

 

What is Precision Metal Stamping?

 

Precision sheet metal stamping is a process used across industries to transform sheet metal from coil or blank form into components for different products and industries. It uses equipment that is fitted with dies to create a large volume of parts of a complex nature. These parts are created using different materials for different applications for a wide range of different uses in organisations all over the world. 

 

High precision metal stamping combines several processes and operations like punching, embossing and coining to engrave dies and create different shapes out of sheet metal. It proves to be cost-effective when there are many parts to be produced and when those parts are complex. You also need to consider different factors besides cost, such as project deadlines, budgets and the duration of your approval cycle.

 

Types of Precision Metal Stamping Machines

 

Precision metal stamping uses highly specialised equipment and tools that can carry out a series of operations. These tools are fitted to the precision stamping presses into which the metal sheets are fed. There are two different types of stamping machines – mechanical and hydraulic presses. Both of these have been created with unique features best suited to specific purposes. 

 

Mechanical press

A mechanical press has a mechanical flywheel that can transfer energy as well as store it. The punch sizes vary from 5 to 500mm, based on the different presses. The speed of mechanical pressing also varies, falling anywhere between 20 to 1500 strokes every minute. Mechanical presses are available in different sizes too, weighing from 20 to 6000 tonnes.

 

Hydraulic press

Precision stamping that uses a hydraulic press works by displacing fluids with a level of force that is directly proportional to the piston head’s diameter. This enables a higher level of control over the machinery and execution process. They also have adjustable speed and stroke capabilities, in that they can deliver maximum force in the stroke. A hydraulic press is also available in different sizes, varying from 20 to 10000 tonnes, while the size of its stroke varies from 10 to 800mm.

 

Advantages of High Precision Stamping

 

High precision stamping has become the most widely adopted metal stamping method in use today. There are many reasons for this. 

 

  • Low cost of die: High precision metal stamping tools are cheaper to create and maintain compared to the equipment used in other conventional stamping processes. This makes it profitable for both the client and the manufacturer.
  • Lower overall costs: The cleaning of precision stamping presses, as well as the plating, cost a lot less compared to the production and maintenance costs incurred if you use any other process. Precision metal stamping is highly cost-effective and can even prove profitable in the long run.
  • Increased automation: Once the initial equipment setup is done, most of the processes and operations covered by precision sheet metal stamping can be automated easily. These operations require repetition and order to give a uniform output. Precision metal stamping companies use highly advanced computer programs to deliver greater precision and increased production within a shorter time.
  • High precision levels: As suggested by the name, precision stamping leaves little room for error. Components and parts are created with high accuracy with quality control measures in place. These measures ensure that any deviation from the discussed specifications is recognised and fixed before any real damage is done. 
  • Problems get solved: Conventional metal stamping methods don’t always get you the accuracy you expect. For products like electronics and connectors, for example, precision stamping companies use technology that pays attention to detail. This is also one of the major reasons precision stamping is used for manufacturing complex parts and projects. 

 

 

Make sure you choose the right high precision metal stamping partner for your needs.