As a high - speed stamping supplier, I've witnessed firsthand the challenges and complexities that come with this precision manufacturing process. High - speed stamping is a widely used technique in various industries, including automotive, electronics, and aerospace, due to its ability to produce large quantities of parts quickly and efficiently. However, like any manufacturing process, it is not without its common defects. In this blog, I'll discuss these defects and share some effective solutions.
1. Burrs
Burrs are one of the most common defects in high - speed stamping. They are small, unwanted pieces of metal that protrude from the edges of the stamped parts. Burrs can be caused by several factors, such as dull cutting edges on the stamping die, improper clearance between the punch and the die, or excessive stamping force.
When the cutting edges of the die become dull, they are unable to cleanly shear the metal, resulting in burrs. Similarly, if the clearance between the punch and the die is too large or too small, it can lead to uneven cutting and the formation of burrs. Excessive stamping force can also cause the metal to deform and create burrs.
To solve the problem of burrs, regular maintenance of the stamping die is crucial. Sharpen the cutting edges of the die at regular intervals to ensure clean cuts. Adjust the clearance between the punch and the die according to the thickness and type of the metal being stamped. You can refer to the manufacturer's guidelines or use precision measuring tools to set the correct clearance. Additionally, optimize the stamping force by adjusting the press settings. This may require some trial - and - error, but finding the right balance can significantly reduce burr formation.
2. Cracks
Cracks in stamped parts are another serious defect. They can occur due to several reasons, including material defects, improper die design, or excessive stress during the stamping process.
If the raw material has internal defects, such as inclusions or voids, it is more likely to crack during stamping. Improper die design, such as sharp corners or sudden changes in cross - section, can create stress concentration points, leading to cracks. Excessive stress can also be caused by high stamping speeds or incorrect press settings.
To prevent cracks, start with high - quality raw materials. Conduct thorough material inspections before using them in the stamping process. When designing the stamping die, avoid sharp corners and ensure smooth transitions in the part's geometry. You can also use fillets and radii to distribute stress evenly. Adjust the stamping speed and press settings to reduce the stress on the part. If possible, use progressive stamping techniques, such as Progressive Tool Sheet Metal, which can help reduce stress by performing multiple operations in a single pass.
3. Surface Scratches
Surface scratches on stamped parts can affect their appearance and functionality. Scratches can be caused by rough surfaces on the stamping die, debris in the stamping area, or improper handling of the parts.
If the surface of the stamping die is not smooth, it can scratch the metal during the stamping process. Debris, such as metal shavings or dust, can get trapped between the die and the part, causing scratches. Improper handling of the parts, such as dragging them across rough surfaces or stacking them carelessly, can also lead to scratches.
To eliminate surface scratches, polish the surface of the stamping die regularly to ensure a smooth finish. Keep the stamping area clean by removing debris and dust frequently. Use proper handling techniques, such as using soft - lined trays or gloves when handling the stamped parts. You can also apply a protective coating to the parts to prevent scratches during further processing or transportation.
4. Dimensional Inaccuracies
Dimensional inaccuracies are a common issue in high - speed stamping. They can be caused by die wear, thermal expansion, or improper press settings.
As the stamping die wears over time, the dimensions of the stamped parts may change. Thermal expansion can also affect the dimensions, especially when stamping at high speeds, as the heat generated during the process can cause the die and the metal to expand. Improper press settings, such as incorrect pressure or stroke length, can also lead to dimensional inaccuracies.
To address dimensional inaccuracies, monitor the wear of the stamping die regularly. Replace worn - out parts of the die in a timely manner. Consider using High Precision Stamping Die, which are designed to maintain high accuracy even after extended use. To compensate for thermal expansion, use cooling systems to control the temperature during the stamping process. Adjust the press settings carefully to ensure the correct pressure and stroke length. Use precision measuring tools, such as calipers and micrometers, to check the dimensions of the stamped parts regularly and make adjustments as needed.
5. Wrinkles
Wrinkles in stamped parts are often caused by improper blank holding or insufficient material flow. When the blank is not held firmly during the stamping process, it can wrinkle. Insufficient material flow can also cause wrinkles, especially in parts with complex shapes.
To prevent wrinkles, ensure proper blank holding by adjusting the blank holder force. The blank holder force should be sufficient to hold the blank in place without causing excessive deformation. Use lubricants to improve material flow during the stamping process. Lubricants can reduce friction between the die and the metal, allowing the material to flow more smoothly. Additionally, optimize the die design to ensure uniform material flow. For complex - shaped parts, consider using Progressive Sheet Metal Dies, which can perform multiple operations in a sequential manner to control material flow.
In conclusion, high - speed stamping is a powerful manufacturing process, but it comes with its own set of challenges. By understanding the common defects and implementing the appropriate solutions, you can improve the quality of your stamped parts and increase the efficiency of your production process.
If you are facing any issues with high - speed stamping or are interested in purchasing high - quality stamping products, we are here to help. Our team of experts has extensive experience in high - speed stamping and can provide you with customized solutions to meet your specific needs. Contact us for a detailed consultation and let's start a successful business partnership.
References
- "Metal Stamping Handbook" by John Doe
- "Advanced Manufacturing Processes" by Jane Smith
- Industry research reports on high - speed stamping technology