Stamping processing is a commonly used processing method, which is mainly used for processing metal and non-metal sheet metal parts. Stamping processing is generally carried out at room temperature, so it can also be called cold stamping.
Sheet metal aluminum metal stamping parts with molds
The mold structure used in stamping processing is generally more complicated, the production cycle is longer, and the cost is higher. Therefore, the use of stamping technology in single-piece and small-batch production is subject to certain restrictions. The stamping process is mostly used in batch and mass production.
Metal Stamping Design Processes
Metal stamping part stamping is a complex process that can include a number of metal forming processes —blanking, punching, bending, and piercing and more.
Blanking: This process is about cutting the rough outline or shape of the product. This stage is about minimizing and avoiding burrs, which can drive up the cost of your part and extend lead time. The step is where you determine hole diameter, geometry/taper, the spacing between edge-to-hole and insert the first piercing.
Bending: When you are designing the bends into your stamped metal part, it is important to allow for enough material — make sure to design your part and its blank so that there is enough material to perform the bend. Some important factors to remember:
If a bend is made too close to the hole, it can become deformed.
Notches and tabs, as well as slots, should be designed with widths that are at least 1.5x the thickness of the material. If made any smaller, they can be difficult to create due to the force exerted on punches, causing them to break.
Every corner in your blank design should have a radius that is at least half of the material thickness.
To minimize instances and severity of burrs, avoid sharp corners and complex cutouts when possible. When such factors cannot be avoided, be sure to note burr direction in your design so they can be taken into account during stamping
Coining: This action is when the edges of a stamped metal part are struck to flatten or break the burr; this can create a much smoother edge in the coined area of the part geometry; this can also add additional strength to localized areas of the part and this can be utilized to avoid secondary process like deburring and grinding. Some important factors to remember: