Precision Metal Stampings: Main Features And Typical Issues

Precision automotive metal stampings are used in many of the items we use every day. Precision metal stampings are ubiquitous in modern life, used for anything from automobile components to pinning. So, what makes metal stampings unique, and what are their most frequent issues? Have a peek at Hashimoto Precision‘s article!

Precision metal stampings are characterized primarily by the following characteristics:

When producing metal stampings, fewer raw materials are used in the stamping process. Both the weight and rigidity of the components are excellent. Plastic deformation of sheet metal improves the metal’s internal arrangement, increasing stamping components’ durability.

Metal stamping components have great precision and are easily interchangeable since their dimensions are symmetrical with the module. Therefore, their processing is necessary to fulfill the standards of typical machinery and applications.

The stamping method creates ideal circumstances for surface treatment like painting, electroplating, phosphating, etc., because the material surface is undamaged, the surface is brilliant and attractive, and the quality is high.

Incomplete residual materials are left during punching or chamfering, and burrs occur at the bottom portion of the steel plate cutting surface, common causes for precision metal stamping. If the burr is higher than 0.2 mm, the iron powder erodes the mold and produces an unattractive convex concavity.

Scratches: Sharp scratches or metal dust on the mold fall into the mold, causing scratches on the component. It’s best to clean off any metal dust before handling the mold to avoid scratching the surface.

Poor plasticity or pressing too hard on the die blank holder are the major causes of bottom cracks in parts. Either switch to a more flexible material or loosen the blank holder.

Insufficient material thickness (less than the proper thickness) or a considerable variation when installing high and low molds lead to side wall wrinkling of components. This is because the molds have different heights on opposite sides. Therefore, it is suggested that the material be changed or the mold is adjusted.

Principles of design for high-quality metal stampings:

Stamping components should be created to be compatible with the product’s intended function and technical performance and easy to install and maintain. Materials efficiency, reduction in the number of material kinds and standards, and material consumption may all be aided by stamping components. Used materials should be repurposed if possible. If a component can be pierced, then less material will be wasted.

The stamping components should be well organized and easy to understand, as this will aid in streamlining the mold layout and processing volume. Using a straightforward stamping method, we may achieve complete component processing, lessen our reliance on ancillary technologies, streamline our stamping operations, mechanize and automate our production, and increase our throughput. Stamping components developed for production should have greater tolerances for size and surface roughness to ease product swapping, minimize consumption, and maintain consistent quality. The intended stamping components must be as helpful as feasible in using the current machinery, processing equipment, and process flow and maximizing the useful life of the stamping die.