Custom Metal Stamping Services | TFG USA

15 Jul.,2024

 

Custom Metal Stamping Services | TFG USA

Metal stamping techniques

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The low-cost, high-speed, high precision manufacturing processes associated with metal stamping involve the application of diverse techniques, such as:

Blanking

The blanking process involves the removal of a workpiece from primary material to create the desired form. Unlike punching, the removed workpiece becomes the desired shape or blank.

Punching

This technique refers to the use of a die and a punch to cut sheet metal into the required form. During punching, the punch enters the material attached to the die and dispels pieces of metal to create the desired form in the remaining workpiece.

Coining

This technique involves the placement of the material between a die and a press or punch. The material is squeezed with extreme force during the press stroke to generate fine features and tolerances on the surfaces of parts.

Bending

Bending refers to processes that form sheet metal into desired bent shapes, which are generally the L, U, or V-shapes. The bending process is applied above the material&#;s yield point and around a single axis to form the desired shape.

Flanging

The flanging process involves the use of a die and a flange or flares produced by a flanging tooling section on a workpiece. The flange portion of the tooling and die form the desired shape in the workpiece.

Drawing/Forming

The drawing and forming stamping process involves the use of compressive force to form sheet metal into a cavity or produce a shaped form by wrapping the workpiece over the desired shape in the die.

Embossing

The embossing process involves the use of a die and a pressing or stamping machine to apply the shaped die onto the material. The embossed pattern or designed form is then imprinted on the workpiece.

Curling

The curling process is used to eliminate sharp edges or form sharp edges into hollow rings according to a specific design. Once performed, curling also increases the moment of inertia at the curled end of the workpiece.

Piercing

The piercing process involves punching or cutting out holes of closed shapes in a workpiece. The punched-out portion is discarded and the pierced pattern forms the end-use part.

These diverse metal stamping techniques are done individually and can be combined or done in multiple operations to form the intricate parts a project requires. The peculiarities of individual projects are the major determining factors when choosing which metal stamping techniques to apply.

For example, a simple bent design can be developed using bending while intricate tooling sections may combine flanging and piercing or any one of the other techniques outlined above.

Types of metal stamping

Pictured above: An exhaust tip manufactured by The Federal Group.

The different types of metal stamping utilize the diverse techniques that are applied to produce a finished part with high quality standards. There are three major types of metal stamping, and they are &#; Progressive die stamping, Deep draw stamping, and Fourslide stamping.

Progressive die stamping

With progressive stamping (also referred to as prog die stamping), we move strip metal through a progressive stamping press, where it passes from one station to the next. Each station performs a specific function, including forming, punching, bending, and cutting the metal.

In most cases, progressive stamping requires the use of multiple stations or stages, especially when a project involves complex parts. Progressive stamping offers the advantages of a quick turnaround and the creation of repeated, uniform pieces. It also has the lowest labor cost for each stamping type.

Deep draw stamping

Deep drawing is a technique that uses a punch to feed a blank into a die. It works best for projects in which a customer needs extreme depths on the part shape. Generally, parts with sweeping and deep shapes are used in the Automotive and Aerospace Industries. Deep drawing uses less raw material than other stamping processes. It also works well for producing less-complicated pieces at high volume.

Fourslide stamping

Fourslide stamping is a metalworking process that simplifies the creation of complex parts. It uses four tools that each bend the metal into the required shape simultaneously. While fourslide stamping doesn&#;t create pieces with as much uniformity as progressive stamping, it makes changing or adjusting the design easier when a project requires many parts with different bends.

Which metal stamping process is right for your project?

Metal stamping is a popular manufacturing process for developing parts with tight tolerances using sheet metal, like steel, copper, stainless steel, and aluminum. You can take advantage of metal stamping to manufacture products across diverse industries such as:

  • Automotive
  • Agricultural parts
  • Aerospace
  • Electronics
  • Home appliances
  • Lighting
  • Healthcare
  • Defense
  • Telecommunications

Examples of stamping products

Pictured above: A chair leg cup manufactured by The Federal Group.

  • Brackets
  • Brake lever
  • Bread cloche
  • Conveyor cup
  • Conveyor equipment
  • Exhaust tips
  • Exterior panels
  • File cabinets
  • Grating
  • Radiant heaters
  • Housings
  • Ladder step
  • Laptop and computer housing
  • Leg cup / cap
  • Pierced nut
  • Plow discs
  • Shelving
  • Small appliances
  • Springs
  • Stair treads
  • Stove top
  • Toaster ovens
  • Trailer bracket
  • Washers
  • Water fountains

A few factors play important roles in determining the correct metal stamping process and techniques to use. These factors include the manufacturing budget, shape and size of the manufactured part, production speed, quality, and production volume. Table 1 below can help you in making the right choice:

Table 1: Types of Metal Stamping Types of Metal Stamping Quality of Produced Item Production Speed Best Use Case Scenarios Progressive Stamping Produces high-quality parts of intricate designs. Relatively quick when compared to other manufacturing processes. For producing complex patterns in the automotive, aerospace, defense, and home-appliance industries.

Used for low to large-volume manufacturing.

Fourslide Stamping Produces items with less uniformity and precision compared to progressive stamping. A quicker production process when compared to progressive stamping. For producing domestic or home-appliance items, agricultural parts, and spare parts.

Supports mid to large-volume production runs.

Deep Draw Stamping Produces items with average quality and precision requirements. A quick production process that is faster than the others. Uses less material than the others and is applied in the automotive, aerospace, and home-appliance industries.

Supports low to mid-volume production runs.

Choosing the customization route

The table above does not account for the different scenarios every manufacturer faces when looking to apply metal stamping to develop quality stamping parts. In scenarios where your requirements are specific to your company and your industry&#;s standards, regulations, and needs, speaking with one of our Sales Engineers to help you with your project becomes the only decision to make.

The Federal Group USA custom metal stamping services include:

  • The ideation phase &#; when your industry-specific needs, design requirements, and project goals are discussed to determine the best and correct techniques to be used in the stamping process for a given part
  • The design phase &#; this involves choosing the metal stamping process and designing the required dies or patterns needed to produce optimized parts using computer-aided design (CAD) software
  • The production phase &#; we employ our proprietary cutting-edge machinery to develop intricate or complex designs according to your project requirements
  • The implementation phase &#; here, we provide the after-sales services you need to ensure the produced items are compatible with your systems

Pictured above: A water fountain reservoir manufactured by The Federal Group.

Learn more about our metal stamping services and capabilities

Equipment

  • Multiple presses with various shapes and sizes
  • From 5 to 800 tons
  • Multiple openings, beds, strokes, and speeds
  • Latest technology feeders to handle material of any weight

Capabilities

  • Stainless steel between 7 and 30 gauge
  • Tolerances to . inches
  • Single and progressive dies
  • State-of-the-art die and tool shop with EDM capabilities

Kickstart a metal stamping project today

At The Federal Group USA, fulfilling your metal stamping parts requirements is important to us. These requirements may vary from simplistic projects to creating intricate components for your light and heavy types of machinery.

Aomate are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.

Whatever your industry-specific case may be, our metal stamping services are designed to optimize the production of the parts you need to meet your organization&#;s goals.

Get started with metal stamping by speaking to a Sales Engineer today.

A Closer Look at Metal Stampings

What is Metal Stamping

Metal stamping is an essential process in the manufacturing industry as it enables the production of high-quality, precision parts with minimal waste. The process is used to create a wide range of products, including automotive parts, electronic components, medical devices, and household appliances. The ability to produce complex parts with high accuracy and the consistency makes metal stamping a crucial part of modern manufacturing.

The history of metal stamping can be traced back to the early s when the first machine press was invented. This machine used a flywheel to apply force to a punch, which cut and shaped metal sheets into specific shapes. Over time, the process evolved to include more advanced machinery, such as the hydraulic and mechanical press.

Today, metal stamping has become an integral part of the manufacturing industry, with advanced machinery and techniques allowing for the production of complex parts with high precision and efficiency. The process continues to evolve, with new materials, tools, and technologies constantly being developed to improve the quality and speed of production.

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Process & Techniques

The metal stamping process involves specialized machinery, including dies and punches, to cut and shape metal sheets into specific shapes and sizes. The process is typically performed on flat sheets of metal fed into a stamping press, where they are cut, bent, or shaped using a series of dies and punches.

Metal stamping is a versatile process that can be performed using various techniques depending on the complexity of the part being produced. Here are some of the most common metal stamping techniques:

Progressive Die Stamping

This technique is commonly used for the high-volume production of parts that require multiple operations to be performed on them. It involves feeding a metal strip through a series of dies that progressively cut, bend, and shape the metal into a finished part. Each die performs a specific operation, which can be automated for high efficiency.

Four-Slide Stamping

This technique uses a four-slide machine to bend and shape metal into complex parts. The machine has four moving slides that work together to create intricate shapes. Four-slide stamping is ideal for producing parts with multiple bends and shapes.

Multi-Slide Tooling

This technique is similar to four-slide stamping but uses a machine with more than four slides. The process is used to create complex parts with multiple bends and shapes. Multi-slide tooling is ideal for the high-volume production of small parts.

Deep Drawing Stamping

This technique uses a punch and dies to draw a flat metal sheet into a three-dimensional shape. The process creates parts with deep recesses or shapes that cannot be achieved through other stamping techniques. Deep drawing stamping is ideal for producing parts with a high depth-to-diameter ratio.

Transfer Die Stamping

This technique involves using a series of dies to transfer the metal sheet from one station to another, each station performing a specific operation. The process is used to create complex parts with tight tolerances. Transfer die stamping is ideal for producing large, complex parts.

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Materials Used In Metal Stamping

Metal stamping can be performed on various materials, including metals, alloys, and composites. The choice of material will depend on the specific requirements of the finished part, including the desired properties, strength, and durability.

Tempered vs. Pre-Tempered Metals

Tempered and pre-tempered metals are two different types of metal alloys used in metal stamping. Tempered metals are heated to a high temperature and then cooled rapidly to create a hardened surface. This process is called quenching, making the metal much stronger and more resistant to wear and tear.

On the other hand, pre-tempered metals have been tempered before they are used in stamping. This means the metal has already undergone quenching and has a hardened surface. As a result, pre-tempered metals are more uniform in their hardness and have more consistent mechanical properties, making them easier to work with during the stamping process.

The choice between tempered and pre-tempered metals depends on the specific requirements of the part or component being produced. For example, pre-tempered metals are often preferred for applications where high precision and uniformity are required. On the other hand, tempered metals are often used in applications where the metal needs to be harder and more wear-resistant.

Tempered Metals:

  • Spring Steel (SAE-, SAE--75, SAE-) Annealed and Pre-Tempered
    • Spring steel is a low-alloy, high-carbon steel known for its strength and durability. It is commonly used in metal stamping to produce springs and other parts that require high strength and flexibility. Spring steel can be annealed or pre-tempered to achieve the desired properties for the finished part.
  • Cold-Rolled (CRS-, CRS ) Steel
    • Cold-rolled steel is a low-carbon steel commonly used in metal stamping to produce parts with tight tolerances and a good surface finish. It is easy to form and weld and is ideal for producing parts that require strength and durability.
  • Brass Metal
    • Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc commonly used in metal stamping to produce parts that require corrosion resistance and good conductivity. It is easy to form and flexible, making it ideal for producing complex shapes and parts.
  • Beryllium Copper
    • Beryllium copper is an alloy of copper and beryllium commonly used in metal stamping to produce parts that require high strength and conductivity. It is ideal for producing parts requiring excellent fatigue and corrosion resistance.
  • Stainless Steel 301
    • Stainless steel 301 is a high-strength, low-carbon steel commonly used in metal stamping to produce parts that require excellent strength, corrosion resistance, and flexibility. It is ideal for producing parts that require good formability and weldability.
  • Stainless Steel 304
    • Stainless steel 304 is a low-carbon steel commonly used in metal stamping to produce parts that require good strength, corrosion resistance, and formability. It is ideal for producing parts that require good weldability and high durability.
  • Aluminum:
    • Aluminum is a lightweight, low-density metal commonly used in metal stamping to produce parts that require good strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. It is ideal for producing parts that require good formability and weldability.

Pre-Tempered Metals:

  • Martensite is steel quenched and tempered to achieve the high hardness and strength. It is commonly used in metal stamping to produce parts that require excellent wear resistance and durability.
  • Stainless steel, when pre-tempered, is an alloy of steel that has been heat-treated to achieve a specific level of hardness and strength. It is commonly used in metal stamping to produce parts that require strength, corrosion resistance, and durability.
  • Brass, when pre-tempered, is an alloy of copper and zinc that has been heat-treated to achieve a specific level of hardness and strength. It is commonly used in metal stamping to produce parts that require good conductivity, corrosion resistance, and durability.

Metal stamping is a versatile and efficient manufacturing process that involves shaping and forming metals into various parts and components. Several types of metal stamping techniques include progressive die stamping, four-slide stamping, multi-slide tooling, deep drawing stamping, and transfer die stamping. Each technique offers its advantages and is suitable for specific applications. The choice of material is also important in metal stamping, with a wide range of metals and alloys available, including pre-tempered metals such as martensite, stainless steel, and brass. Metal stamping is a cost-effective and reliable process widely used in various industries to produce high-quality parts and components.

Need help determining the right stamping process for your application? Contact us to start a conversation with one of our experienced team members or request a quote today.

Advantages of Metal Stamping

Metal stamping offers numerous advantages over other manufacturing processes. The following are some of the most significant advantages of metal stamping:

  • Cost-Effectiveness
    • Metal stamping is a cost-effective process that allows manufacturers to produce high volumes of parts and components at a low cost per unit. The process involves a high level of automation, reducing labor costs and increasing production efficiency.
  • Precision
    • Metal stamping is a highly precise manufacturing process that allows manufacturers to produce complex and detailed parts with high accuracy and consistency. The process allows tight tolerances and ensures that each part meets the required specifications.
  • Quick Production Turnaround Time
    • Metal stamping is a fast and efficient manufacturing process that allows manufacturers to produce large volumes of parts and components in a short amount of time. The high level of automation in the process allows for quick production turnaround times, reducing lead times and increasing production efficiency.
  • Versatility
    • Metal stamping is a versatile manufacturing process that can produce many parts and components, including simple and complex shapes, thick and thin materials, and various sizes and dimensions. The process can also work with various materials, including steel, aluminum, brass, and copper.

Metal stamping is a highly efficient, cost-effective manufacturing process that offers precise and consistent results. Its quick production turnaround time and versatility make it an essential process for many industries, allowing manufacturers to produce high volumes of parts and components at a low cost per unit.

Challenges with Metal Stamping

Although metal stamping offers many advantages, there are also several challenges that manufacturers face. The following are some of the most common challenges in metal stamping:

  • Design Complexity
    • Metal stamping can be challenging when producing parts and components with complex shapes and designs. Complex designs can make maintaining the required tolerances difficult and result in production errors.
  • Material Selection
    • The right material for a specific part or component is critical in metal stamping. Manufacturers must select materials that are compatible with the stamping process as well as the final application of the part. Choosing the wrong material can result in product failure, production errors, and increased costs.
  • Maintenance of Machinery
    • Metal stamping machinery requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and prevent downtime. Failure to maintain machinery can result in production errors, delays, and increased costs.
  • Quality Control
    • Quality control is critical in metal stamping to ensure that each part meets the required specifications. Quality control processes must be implemented throughout manufacturing to detect and correct errors or defects.

Overall, metal stamping can be a challenging process that requires careful planning and execution to overcome the challenges that manufacturers face. Design complexity, material selection, maintenance of machinery, and quality control are critical areas that manufacturers must focus on to ensure that the final product meets the required specifications and is delivered on time and within budget.

Why Partner With Apex Spring and Stamping

Apex Spring and Stamping is committed to being a leading manufacturer of metals stampings. By adopting a no-compromise policy on quality and engineering, we ensure customers the most cost effective product for their application. Cost-effective in house methods are used in manufacturing stampings, blanking, bending, drawing, swedging, and chamfering.

Metal stamping is the best cost-effective option for large quantities that require extreme precision and quality. It&#;s is our goal to provide products with:

  • Consistent Quality
  • Long-Lasting Capability
  • Best Value

Apex has equipment with the following production capacities:

  • (20) 45 &#; 250-ton gap frame presses
  • Press bed sizes range from 16.0&#; x 31.5&#; (45 ton) to 34.0&#; x 106.0&#; (250 ton)
  • In die sensing (standard on all tools)
  • Inline (die) tapping (reduced processes/handling)
  • In die staking (reduced processes/handling)
  • Customer-specific designs
  • Low to high volume run capabilities
  • Material Thickness: .010&#; &#; .250&#;
  • Material Width: .079&#; &#; 18.0&#;

Apex Currently Manufactures These Products:

  • Brackets
  • Hinge Plates
  • Stop Tabs
  • Compression Limiters
  • Fasteners
  • Speed Nuts
  • Tinner type clips
  • Automotive Center Console Parts
  • Horn Brackets
  • Wall System Brackets
  • Motion Control Brackets
  • Components for lighting and lamps
  • Products for decorative stamping
  • Components of bearings
  • Automobile components
  • Controls and components for appliances

As a leader in the production of high-quality stamping products, you can be confident in the products, solutions, services, and value we provide to our customers.  It is always our goal to meet and exceed the needs of our customers.

Get the conversation started today!

 

Contact us to discuss your requirements of large stamping press. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.