Used to cut holes in sheet metal, a punch press forces a punch tool through the material, thus resulting in a slug of material being cut from the workpiece and deposited into a container through the die below.
Favoured by many industries due to its cost-effective nature and ability to create multiple hole shapes, punching is a common process utilised within the production of fabricated parts. Punch presses can be hand-operated, or automated for increased efficiency.
In addition to metal, punching can also be used to cut holes in certain types of plastic. This sometimes occurs as a secondary operation to various moulding processes.
Used to produce
Holes in sheet metal components.
Materials
Punching can be used to create holes in a wide range of materials including aluminium, mild steel, stainless steel and carbon steel, to name but a few. Punching can also be used to cut holes in certain types of plastic.
Advantages
Cost-effective process.
Can be used to create multiple hole shapes.
Disadvantages
May not be suitable for thicker materials.
Harder materials may not be suitable for punching and may need to be drilled instead.
