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Sheet metal punching is a very common metal manufacturing process used to make a myriad of goods. The process is a relatively simple one. As the material passes through or under the punching machine, the punching machine performs the design on the sheet metal. Previously, sheet metal punching was done entirely by hand-operated machines. Today, the punching process is done by advanced computer-automated machines with programs that include a matrix of standard or specially designed shapes.

How is Sheet Metal Formed?

Metal sheets are formed by an industrial process that presses metal into thin, flat, uniform workpieces. The machines used to press sheet metal are equipped with punches and dies that cut and form the workpiece. The industrial punching technique applies a compressive force that applies pressure to the sheet to form the desired shape. This process causes an initial deformation of the sheet metal material to be formed, followed by a rapid shear stress that causes the material to break and be cut to specification.

The process begins when the sheet metal is held in place. The punch then passes down through the side of the sheet metal and into a die located at the bottom of the metal part, forming the desired shape in the metal workpiece as the remaining metal scrap, called a slug, separates from the new pattern. The die also provides the necessary support to allow the punch to apply maximum force without damaging the metal. The punch and die process can create accurate metal parts of any size or shape as designed.

Sheet metal punching and automation

Where sheet metal punching was once done entirely by hand, today's advances in metal punching technology have enabled manufacturers to perform automated punching techniques. The process is completed with speed and precision, forming complex metal parts for multiple industrial sectors. While small punches are still manually operated for specific jobs, custom production or small batches (to meet product demand requirements), industrial sheet metal punching is accomplished with automatic punches operated by CNC (Computer Numerical Control) programming.

CNC punching machines are operated through an automated mechanical process by means of instructions programmed in computer software. The program clamps the material, which is then precisely shaped or formed into custom intricate designs. The machine can be fitted with multiple punch and die sets, used simultaneously, to form a part with just one stroke of the punch. CNC programmable punching machines provide manufacturers with the flexibility, versatility, efficiency and sophistication to meet the most challenging production requirements. It can produce many sheet metal forming processes and can produce complex but economical holes of different shapes with precise reproduction, making it the most economical method in medium to high volume metal forming.

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