Punching machines: what they are, types, and how to use them
The realization of holes is one of the most common operations in the world of manufacturing veneer sheets and plates, so it is logical that companies have resorted to more effective ways to perform the task of punching. If yours is the same, and you are looking for the ideal iron punch, we are here to help you.
Laser, plasma, and water jet cutting technologies have emerged in the last 30 years that can produce holes of varying tolerances in many materials. Even a drill, which could make a hole in a structural steel part in 10-20 seconds, can do the job today in 3-5 seconds.
Find out below how metal punching equipment works, what are the different types that exist, their uses, and much more.
What are punching machines?
Punching is more than just punching holes in sheet metal. Punching can create contours, form sheet metal, and modify surfaces. This fast, productive, and automated process is possible thanks to the use of punching machines.
The hole punching machine have been developed for high flexibility and efficient metal processing. Currently, companies opt for computerized numerical punching (CNC), which is a sheet metal manufacturing process that is carried out using CNC punching machines. These machines optimize work and minimize risks in operations.
What types are there?
There are many types of industrial punching machines that are operated manually or automated.
Although their main function remains the same (drilling holes) each of them may have qualities that make them more suitable for a specific material or task. They are generally considered sturdier tools than their domestic counterparts.
Here are the most efficient types of punching machines.
Manual punching machine
A manually punching is a manually operated tool that is used to drill holes in a variety of materials lamin to. Hand-held drills come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes.
They are often used for industrial maintenance tasks such as roofing, metalwork, false ceiling installation, leatherwork, and rivets. Industrial manual punching machines are sometimes used for plasterboard applications, such as installing corner pieces.
Hydraulic punching machine
A hydraulic punch is a machine designed to quickly and easily punch holes through materials such as steel, aluminum, and others. They are designed for applications typically performed with handheld twist drills or magnetic drills.
Not only are they portable, but they provide additional versatility with a unique throat design and the ability to accommodate various styles of punches and dies. Drilling holes instead of drilling by hand saves time, faster cycle times, ease of handling and precision, less cleaning (gives you a neater finish that’s easy to handle), and punches last longer.
CNC punch
The CNC punching machine basically moves the metal plate in the x and y directions by programming, and accurately positioning the plate under the punching piston of the machine to prepare for punching or forming.
These machines use computer numerical control (CNC) stamping processes to provide better designs and cutting results for different materials.
How do they work?
The concept of punching refers to the cutting process of cutting a sheet through a single impact. Create round holes and other shapes in the part, and then cut the outer contour with one click.
The hole punch works like a paper punch. The hole punch presses the paper on the hole punch holder and finally presses it into the circular opening. Residues from the perforation accumulate in the container of the perforator. And the benefit of this punch machine price is also good on tool.com.
The working principle of drilling is exactly the same: the blade is placed between the punch and the die. The punch moves parallel to the edge of the die and cuts through the plate.
Observe carefully, the stamping process is carried out in four stages:
The punch contacts the plate and deforms it.
The veneer is cut. The stress in the material is so great that the metal plate breaks along the cut contour.
The cut sheet metal (so-called stamped part) is ejected downward.
When the punch moves upwards again, a dragging condition may occur. In this case, the extractor releases the plate from the punch.
The higher the cutting rate of the edge of the sheet, the better the edge quality for example, to make fine adjustments, first, drill a preliminary hole, and then use a larger tool to drill the final diameter.
The cutting rate along the edge can be as high as 100%.
The purpose of the punch
In addition to being used for stamping and perforating materials, industrial punches are multifunctional machines that can help optimize processes and surface treatments in different industries.
The choice of designs and patterns is also limitless. You don’t have to stick to the usual circle or rectangle, but you can also trim the design according to your specifications. CNC punch presses can use single strokes, overlapping geometries, and a variety of different tools to produce the most complex shapes.
Danger in use
No matter what type of punching machine your company uses (manual or automatic); you need to train operators to use the equipment correctly to avoid the following hazards during use.
Do not approach the machine during the movement between the punch and the die to avoid pinching your hands. The operator must also pay attention to the operation of the machine to avoid accidental operation.
Cutting risks caused by newly drilled parts are also potential. For this reason, the operator must be equipped with the necessary protective equipment to prevent direct contact between the skin and the material.
Taking into account that the work pieces to be processed are often large in size, it is necessary to avoid people in the punching area to avoid being hit.