There are many ways to turn a simple coil of metal into multiple useful parts. Progressive stamping is the name of this process, and it produces of hundreds of parts per hour when run smoothly. Progressive stamping allows for faster production speeds while cutting down on scrap material. Many fabricators also prefer progressive stamping because it allows for broader design freedom and great production capabilities.
At IMH Products, one of our many areas of specialization is progressive stamping. One of our production facilities has more than 30 stamping presses that can accommodate up to 120 inches long, and several of these presses have a coil feeding option. With our on-site tool & die creators we can manage the entire production process for your business.
The Basics of Progressive Stamping
Simply put, progressive stamping is a metal forming process that creates parts for various industries and applications. The presses work on a feeding system that pushes a strip of metal through all of the stations of a progressive die until the final part is made. Once the part is fabricated it is cut away from the coil and ejected from the set. The scrap metal is also removed for recycling or disposal.
This process has several benefits for manufacturers. Progressive stamping uses equipment that allows for high-volume production without degrading the dies due to the material used. This creates high-quality, repeatable products. Each part costs less as well because of less waste, quicker set up, and faster speeds. If the feed is automated it also reduces the risk for workplace injuries and limits labor costs. Having an onsite tool & die shop also helps with design freedom from the simple to complex.
Different Types of Stamping
In general, there are six different types of stamping that can be progressive:
Piercing – This method is as simple as punching a hole through sheet metal. It is important that the punching motion remains instantaneous to ensure there are no deformations.
Blanking – Blanking and piercing are similar. The main difference is that the punched piece is not discarded. This is creates small or medium-sized metals that have been cut out from a large metal sheet.
Drawing – When two opposite ends of sheet metal are held in place, then hit with a high impact to push the sheet metal onto the die, the process is called drawing. The metal is deformed to match the die’s cross-sections.
Coining – Coining is a closed die process that stamps a small piece of metal into the shape of a coin. The metal specimen is stamped in whole or in part by two dies closing toward each other.
Lancing – Unlike piercing and blanking, lancing is a type of metal stamping that does not remove metal pieces The die and the punch work in such a way that they both create a slit on the sheet metal. This method does not create any scrap.
Embossing – Embossing produces raised surfaces on an area of sheet metal. This is done using a machine or a die set. It is used because of the complexity of designs it can form.
IMH Products has nearly four dozen stamping presses in its facilities with multiple coil feeder options, giving us the capability to meet the needs of any customer. For more on how we can assist your business in fabricating what you need, contact us at sales@imh.com.