Stamping, sometimes known as pressing, is the procedure of placing flat sheet metals in a blank or oil form and turning them into a net shape. The process has existed since the dawn of the metal age. This is usually done using a stamping hydraulic press where the metal or die form is converted. The process involves a wide range of activities, like forming, drawing, and piercing, to name a few. This excerpt focuses on how a stamping press works.
How does a stamping hydraulic press work?
Before getting into the basics of how a stamping hydraulic press works, you should know what a stamping press is. A stamping press is a metalworking machine used to cut metals and shape them into various specifications based on the needs and requirements. The machine works by making several holes in the metal, bending, and forming deep impressions. In some cases, the metal may even go through stretching. This is mostly done when you need to reduce the thickness of the metal.
The process starts by placing a metal part in the machine. The metal is usually placed between the two halves of the pressing tool. The upper part remains attached to the press slides. On the other hand, the lower part is usually fixed to the bolster plate. The machine is made up of a bolster plate and ram. The bolster plate is also known as the bed. It is a large block of metal on which the bottom part of the die is clamped. The bed is usually stationary. The fact that the lower part is usually attached to the bed means that it remains in a fixed position as the upper member moves. On the other hand, the ram is the upper part.
With the help of gravity, the ram falls on the base severally, depending on the machine and the process. The process is usually very methodic. This means that the parts that are stamped, how much, and the design is usually pre-determined.
Take Note
It is worth mentioning that safety is an important element in the stamping process. Therefore, the machine operator must confirm the safety protocols before hitting the press button.
Applications of hydraulic stamping
The process is applied in a wide range of industries. The automotive industry is highly dependent on the stamping process to manufacture a wide range of its metal products. Stamping is also used for manufacturing washing machines and a wide range of products that feature intricate metals. This is especially the case because these metals are challenging to form and manipulate. However, note that the market features various types of stamping machines. This means that different types of machines are used in different applications.
Final word
The basic function of the hydraulic stamping press process is to manipulate metals into various shapes and sizes according to industrial needs. Stamping presses can also be mechanic. The primary difference between mechanical and hydraulic stamping press machines lies in the force distribution and application area.
