Metal Stamping Dies, Their Parts, and Assembly

Stamping dies are tools for shaping and cutting metal to generate desired custom components. These dies fall under different categories but have the same parts-

The following are parts of stamping dies

Die block

It is the female part of the stamping die situated at the lower part of the assembly which accommodates the punch. Sometimes it is shaped as per the end-product and consists of protrusions or holes essential for forming the metal. The die material is the same as the punch material- rigid and strong.

Die holder

It is essential for supporting the die block 

Punch- It is the male part of the stamping die which moves downwards and applies pressure to the material for forming or cutting. The punch materials are usually tungsten carbide or hardened steel. The punch material has to be stronger than the stock metal for effective cutting or forming.

Punch plate

It is the part where the punch attaches itself. The plate links to a system driving the punch movement. A mechanical or hydraulic process powers the punch plate.

Other parts of the stamping die

• Pressure pads- essential to hold the materials in place while forming and cutting.
• Guide pins- They are essential to align both the dies.
• Pressure plate- They spread the pressure from the punch throughout the surface of the metal. 

Types of stamping die assemblies and their components

Leading metal stamping parts manufacturers offer the following assemblies- 

Simple stamping dies

These dies can carry out one process in each stroke. These are usually essential for fabrication purposes that require fewer steps and low volume production of components. Although these dies are not highly efficient, they perform precise cutting and bending processes. 

Compound stamping dies

These stamping dies can perform more than one process in each stroke. For instance, it can simultaneously perform piercing and blanking. They produce components with complex shapes, multiple cuts, and more, ensuring faster processing. These dies, however, are not suitable for forming processes with high force.

Combination stamping dies 

These dies are suitable to carry out more than a combination in each stroke like forming and cutting or trimming and flanging. These operations take place simultaneously by increasing the production speed and time.

Progressive stamping dies 

These stamping dies are essential to form or cut the workpiece by passing it through different stations in the stamping dies. The processes take place in a set sequence similar to an assembly line. The sheet continuously passes through the stamper horizontally. The final stage involves ejecting the stamped component from the base metal sheet.

Transfer stamping dies

These stamping assemblies consist of multiple stamping dies placed in the production line as per the step sequence. The process starts by separating the workpiece from the base sheet at the first station. It later transfers the material to the next series on the conveyor system. They are essential for fabricating components with complex and large designs and require custom dies for precise operations.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a leading metal stamping parts manufacturer, it is essential to perform extensive research and make the right choice.