Metal punching is one of the key technologies used in the metalworking industry. The process involves cutting out specific shapes from materials such as steel sheets or strips, using specialized tools mounted on presses. Thanks to advanced punching techniques, it is possible to create both simple and complex parts, which are used in a variety of industries.

Below you’ll find a guide describing the most important aspects of metal punching, from choosing the right tools to the technological process to quality control of finished parts.

What is the metal punching process?

Metal punching is a high-precision machining method that involves forming an input material, such as steel strip, bimetal strip, aluminum sheet or bronze, for example, using specialized presses and tools.

The process is carried out on eccentric, hydraulic or high-speed presses, which allow both simple and complex parts to be made. The key element is the punching machines or multi-speed jigs, designed to accurately reproduce the shape of the final product.

Types of presses used in the punching process

Various types of presses are used to realize metal punching, which are selected depending on the specifics of production, the type of material and the required processing parameters.

Eccentric presses are characterized by high speed and repeatability, so they are often used in the production of workpieces that require accurate shape mapping. Hydraulic presses, on the other hand, are ideal for machining thick materials (more than 3 mm thick) or for deep-drawing steel or aluminum, thanks to their ability to generate high pressing force.

In the case of mass production, where speed is crucial, high-speed presses make it possible to cut a large number of parts in a short period of time, while maintaining high quality workmanship.

These presses are equipped with advanced material feeders and control systems that enable precise control of the punching process, ensuring accuracy and minimizing the risk of material loss. Their use also allows the processing of a wide range of materials, including stainless steel, brass, bronze or galvanized sheets, making them versatile tools in modern industry. Thanks to the variety of press types available at Prasmet, it is possible to customize the production process to individual customer needs and specifications.

Advantages of using presses in metal punching

The use of presses in metalworking processes brings a number of significant advantages, both technological and economic. One of the main advantages is the high precision of manufacturing, which is provided by specialized die-cutting machines. Thanks to them, it is possible to obtain parts with perfectly matched dimensions, which is of key importance in industries requiring high accuracy, such as automotive or electronics.

Reduced production time is another advantage, especially when using high-speed presses. These advanced machines allow large series of parts to be cut in a short period of time, significantly increasing the efficiency of the entire process. In addition, the presses show great flexibility in the choice of materials, allowing them to work with a variety of metals and their alloys, such as stainless steel, aluminum, brass and bronze.

The economic benefits come mainly from the reduction of production costs. The presses allow efficient placement of workpieces on the belt, which minimizes material waste. The combination of these advantages makes press punching technology not only efficient but also cost-effective, finding application in many industrial sectors.

The role of punches in the die-cutting process

In the process of metal die-cutting, press-mounted tools such as punches and multi-operated jigs are crucial. Die-cutters are used to perform simple die-cutting operations, which makes them ideal for producing parts with uncomplicated shapes. Multi-speed jigs, on the other hand, allow several processes to be carried out in a single work cycle, such as consecutive punching, bending or stamping. Such tools significantly increase production efficiency, reducing machining time and the number of required operations.

Die-cutters and multi-operation jigs are designed with specific production requirements in mind, which ensures their durability and optimal performance during operation.

Modern tools of this type are often made of durable tool steels that are resistant to abrasion and mechanical stress, allowing them to be used for a long time even in demanding industrial conditions.

What materials can be punched?

Metal punching is a versatile process that allows various types of materials to be processed from coils or sheets. The most commonly used are:

• Normal and stainless steel – widely used in the automotive and construction industries.
• Non-ferrous metals such as brass and bronze – popular in the manufacture of fasteners and electronic components.
• Aluminum – especially valued in the engineering industry.

The choice of material and processing parameters depends on the required properties of the final product, such as strength, aesthetics or corrosion resistance.

Technological process of punching – how does it proceed?

The process of metal punching is a multi-stage one and requires precise planning and adaptation of tools to the specifics of the order. At the beginning, it is crucial to prepare a technical design, which determines the shape and dimensions of the final product. This is followed by the design and manufacturing process of the tool. After trials and modifications are made

The next step is to mount the die-cutter on the press and to set the operating parameters, such as pressure force or speed, which must be adapted to the type of raw material and production requirements. The actual die-cutting process involves the automatic cutting of parts according to the planned pattern, which allows for high repeatability and dimensional accuracy.

An important part of each cycle is quality control, which includes ongoing verification of technical parameters and dimensional conformity of finished parts. Thanks to automation and modern press control systems, the die-cutting process is extremely efficient, reduces waste and allows the production of large series in a short time. This makes this technology irreplaceable in many industries.

All these activities entrusted to one company – such as Prasmet – guarantee a quick and trouble-free transition through all stages of implementation into production.