Metal Stamp Experts Tell You What You Should Know

By Thomas West


Various industries utilize stamped parts for the purpose of machining and tooling. Ordering feeds, dies and the rest of the stamped metal parts is simpler when you conversant with a few crucial facts. The following is what metal stamp experts expect you to have knowledge of when you want to order stamped metal parts.

The Absolute Basics- The feed unit advances the raw material into the press and dies at a given distance, placing it in the right position to be stamped, cut or otherwise shaped. There are several different types of feed units available, each with advantages and drawbacks.

Aerospace- Air or space vehicle requires that every piece is manufactured to precise tolerances for the sake of safety and aerodynamic performance. Metal stamping experts may create the die components, coil handling machinery and air feeds, servo feeds and other material handling equipment that ensures the precision and accuracy required for the aerospace industry.

Air Feeds- Air feeds are among the most popular type of feeds for material handling. They use a mechanical slide that clamps the material in place and moves forward and back. The advantages of air feeds include cost - they're considerably less expensive than other types of feed units - and versatility. They can be mounted to the tool or the press and do not require a tie into the press.

Does Flexibility Play a Role? Some companies are easy to work with. They'll modify designs, customize parts and make substitutions to your orders as needed. Other companies are more rigid - and frequently, considerably more affordable. How important is flexibility to your company?

Vending Machines- Next time you stop by the office vending machine to grab a soda, snack or sandwich, take a moment to thank the stamping experts who supplied many of the parts for the machine. In fact, you can also thank stamping and metal fabrication companies for your espresso machine or coffee maker.

Lighting- From bases to hoods, the lighting industry makes use of many stamped and cut metal components. If your factory, school, public building or retail space uses fluorescent lights, you should know that the frames and backs were created using metal stamping equipment and material handling equipment. Even the shop lights you hang in your home workshop were probably touched by a stamping machine at some point.

When you partner with metal stamping gurus who are reputable in the metal fabrication equipment industry, you get the advantage of their information and reputation. They know what's likely to work best for your application, and more importantly, what definitely won't work. This can save you lots of trial and error, and get your production up and run much sooner.




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