Nibbling is another cold-cutting process which uses a punch to cut multiple holes in the workpiece. These holes overlap, meaning that larger areas of material can be removed by nibbling along the desired profile outline.
Once the punch has travelled through the material, it comes into contact with a die holder which is robust enough to take the force. The cutting process is very fast, as holes are punched in quick succession. Nibbling can be used to cut a wide range of materials, including metals and plastics typically up to 6mm thick.
Nibbling does not affect the properties of the material, as no heat is used during the cutting process.
Used to produce
Contours and profiles in a range of materials.
Materials
Can be used to cut a wide variety of materials including metals and plastics, typically up to 6mm thick.
Advantages
Fast cutting speed without the use of complex equipment.
Cold-cutting process, meaning that the properties of the material are not affected.
Disadvantages
Use is limited to thinner materials.
The kerf may have a notched effect in comparison to other profiling techniques - it may also be wider (up to 6mm).
