Progressive Die Metal Stamping – Comprehensive Overview

It is an advanced technique to produce highly precise metal parts. It optimizes the efficiency of the whole process throughout the production. So, it has wide applications in different industries. These may include the automotive and electronics industries. Thus, progressive die metal stamping is playing a significant role in the metal fabrication industry. So, in this article, we will look at the scope of its applications, advantages, limitations, and possible alternatives available in the market.

Defining Progressive Die Metal Stamping

The metal stamping dies facilitate in manufacturing of the accurate and precise metal parts. It includes feeding of a metal strip through many dies. These dies feature series attachment and perform specific tasks, i.e. punching, bending, or forming, sequentially. Moreover, this process completes multiple operations in one continuous cycle. So, it gives precise parts repeatedly. It has wide scope in different industries, such as automotive, electronics and appliances. So, it is suitable for batch production.

Difference Between Progressive Stamping and Traditional Die Stamping

Both processes are popular for the manufacturing of metal parts. But they have different advantages and considerations. So, here is a comparison of traditional metal stamping and progressive die metal stamping . Understanding your needs will help you choose the right process.

Components of Progressive Die Metal Stamping

So, let’s discuss its major components;

1. Die Set: It provides a complete framework that holds all components of the die. Moreover, it gives support during the stamping process.
2. Button Die (Bushings): It is located inside the die set. So, it gives alignment and support for the punches and other components of the machine.
3. Punches: It is a kind of tool, that helps cut the required shape.
4. Punch Holder: It holds the punches appropriately. Also, place it inside the die set.
5. Plate (Section): It’s a separate component in the die set. So, it is used for metal forming and bending.
6. Pins: It has many functions. They may include the alignment of different sections.
7. Slug Clearance: It manages the removed material (slug) that whole process generates.
8. Stripper: It is the best part to strip the finished part from the punches. It is usually done after each stamping cycle.

Progressive Die Stamping Process – Step-by-Step

So, here is the detail of the process that die stamping involves.

Designing Metal Part 

The first step involves making the designs for the metal parts that you want to manufacture. So, the engineers consider several factors, i.e. intended function of the parts, dimensions, tolerance, material requirements, and any special features. Moreover, these designs need high accuracy and precise measurements. So, they are usually designed on advanced software like Computer-aided design (CAD). This software can design the metal part more precisely.

Stamping Die Design

In progressive sheet metal stamping, the multiple stations are present in sequence, inside a single tool. So, when the metal strip moves through the stations, they perform some specific operations on it. Here die plays an important role in carrying out each operation accurately. These operations may include geometries, precision machining, and heat treatment processes. So, the die must be designed with high accuracy and precision. So, it can manufacture durable tooling, that can tolerate high forces and repetitive use.

Metal Selection

Different metals have different properties. So, their application varies based on these properties. So, it is important to understand the material you choose to make your metal parts. This material selection depends on different factors, i.e. mechanical properties required for the part, cost considerations, corrosion resistance or conductivity. So, the common materials that progressive die stamping feature are steel, aluminium, copper, and alloys. Moreover, the material is injected into the machine as coils and sheets.

Cutting the Material

The first process involves the cutting of material. Here the metal sheet is fed into the press. Then the material is cut into blanks. The blank size is usually large than the requirement. So, it can tolerate stretching and deformation during the forming operations. Here are some steps that are involved in cutting the material.

• Shearing: It uses a pair of opposing blades to cut the edges of the metal. So, place the metal between these blades and apply downforce to cut it
• Punching: it includes a punch and die to cut the metal. Moreover, the punch applies force to the metal. The die supports it and defines the shape to cut the metal.
• Blanking: Here it uses blank dies to cut the outlines of the metal part. So, it retains the required shape and discards the excessive material.

Forming Operations for Metal Stamping Dies

The main goal of this step is to perform specific shaping operations. Ensure that you carry out these operations carefully.. Otherwise, the issues may lead to problems, such as wrinkles, cracks, or string back. So, these operations may include.

• Bending: A metal part may require multiple bends to get the required shape. In this case, a bending punch and a die set are used to bend the metals.
• Drawing: It includes the stretching of metal into a cavity. So, it can create protruding features. This process is usually used to produce cups and shell-like shapes.
• Coining: This is a process of giving the fine details to the metal part. Here the metal is compressed between two dies to give perfect surface finishing.

Piercing and Hole Making:

Sometimes you need to create holes in the metal. In this case, a piercing operation is used in custom metal stamping dies. This operation may include.

• Punching: It uses a punch and die to cut the holes and shapes of the metal. These punches are usually different shapes, i.e. square, round, or rectangular shape.
• Piercing: This process may include piercing the metal to create holes without removing the material. So, apply a localized force to carry it out.

Trimming and Shearing:

A trimming operation helps remove the excessive material attached to the edges of the metal part. So, it must be performed with precision, so you can avoid damage to the final part. Here are some operations involved in it.

• Shearing: This operation cuts the excessive material with the help of plates and cutting tools. It may include trimming the edges and unwanted features of the part.
• Notching: If you need small cuts or notches in the metal, this operation facilitates you.

Inspection of Metal & Quality Control

It helps to evaluate whether the parts meet the required standards or not. So, these operations in it may include.

• Visual Inspection: It helps in identifying any defects in metal parts, such as imperfections, scratches, or discolorations.
• Dimensional Accuracy: Precision and accuracy are the first requirements of metal parts. So, dimensional measurements reflects if the part meets dimensional tolerances and specifications. Moreover, the checking tools used in this process are calipers, micrometers, or CMMs.
• Functional Testing: It ensures if the parts meet performance requirements like strength, durability, or fit with other components.
• Quality Control Measures: These measures helps identify and address any possible issues. Additionally, it reduces scrap and gives high-quality parts that are ready for shipment.

Stamping die design Process?

Designing progressive die metal stamping needs several key considerations. These factors can increase the efficiency and accuracy of the whole stamping dies process. So, these factors are enlisted below.

1. check the requirements for the stamp part. These may include dimensions, tolerances, material specifications, and volume expectations. These considerations will help you in smooth flow. of entire progressive custom die metal stampings.
2. The main purpose of the stamping die is. efficient manufacturing. So always consider features like uniform ball thickness, and smooth transitions, and avoid the sharp corners. These issues can cause tooling defects.
3. Progressive die stamping is suitable for the simple geometries. So, always design the tools with fewer undercuts and no internal threads. Otherwise, they may complicate the stamping process.
4. Always choose the material that has high strength, formality, and low cost. These materials may include aluminum, copper, and various alloys.

Tips to Design Main Components of Multi-station Progressive Die

Effective design of the main components gives accurate stamping tools. So let’s discuss designing of each component in detail.

Punch

Punches are used to cut and form the metal to get the desired shape. So, it must be accurately designed. It can increase the durability of the process and provide smooth and continuous flow. The stamping process can be of different types. Moreover, it may need different types of punches for effective performance. You must choose a material that can bear forces and high pressure. Here is a typical design for Punch

Concave Mold

It is the counterpart of the punch. It is used to shape the material as it is pressed against it.  Additionally, the mold can be of different shapes and structures. These may include integral, block, or embedded block. These structures depend upon the complexity of the part. So, it must be designed for efficient material flow and smooth part formation. So, below is the typical; design for concave mold.

Guide and Positioning System

It helps to give accurate moments and positioning to the material throughout the process. Moreover, guide pins and side blades are commonly used for initial positioning. On the other hand, guide plates and strips are used to control the position and feeding distance. So, choose the material, which has low friction and high wire resistance for guide components.

Belt Guide and Supporting Device

These components help with the appropriate feeding of the strip. Sometimes the material deforms during the stamping process. Here these components play a key role. They allow the curved parts not to interfere with the die cavity wall. This mechanism can be optimized using floating support devices and guides. So, choose the material and configurations that can help in the prevention of material deformations.

Unloading Device

This component is used to perform specific operations. These may include pressing, unloading, and protecting the metal stamped part. Moreover, it has a segmented assembly structure. It helps in the installation of upper mold using discharge screws. To design this component, you can use different features like segmented assembly and discharge screws. They will help in easy installation and adjustment.

Limiter

The limiter is responsible for the installation, debugging, storage, and transportation of the mold. It gives a reference point to align and secure the mold components. You must add features like reference points and a locking mechanism. They will help in securing the positioning.

Machining Direction Conversion Mechanism

It is used to convert the machining direction within the die. It allows more complex stamping operations. These may include a wedge slider mechanism or a lever mechanism. To design them, You must consider space treatment and compatibility with different components in the die assembly. Here are some Typical designs for different Mechanisms.

Micro Adjustment Mechanism of Forming Punch

This mechanism adjusts the forming punch position. Moreover, this is responsible for. precise part formation and minimizing the defects. So, you can add features like alignment, clamping, and attachment of other die components in its designing part.

Overview of the Classifications of the Progressive Metal Die Stamping Process

After discussion, here is the table that will give you a small overview of the classifications of the Progressive die metal stamping process.

Process	Description	Geometry	Simplified Shapes
Cut	The plate part cut on blank, resulting in bending.	Varies
Trimming	Excess material cut off the edge of the semi-finished product after drawing or forming.	Varies
Bending	Mold bends material into a specific shape (V/U/Z-shaped).	V, U, Z
Rounding	The ends of the sheet are rounded.	Circular
Twist	One part of the plate twisted at an angle relative to another.	Helical
Deep drawing	The sheet is pressed into the hollow workpiece, maintaining wall thickness.	Cylindrical, Spherical
Thinning and Deep drawing	The size of the hollow part changed by reducing the diameter and increasing height for the required thickness.	Conical, Cylindrical
Hole flanging	The edge of the hole on the sheet or workpiece turned into the upright edge.	Circular
Outer edge flange	The outer edge of the workpiece is turned into an arc or curved vertical edge.	Arc, Curved
Reducing the mouth	The mouth of the hollow piece is reduced.	Circular, Oval
Expanding	The mouth of the hollow piece expanded, often for pipes.	Circular, Oval
Waving	Ribs, patterns, or text embossed on a sheet or workpiece, thinning the entire area.	Textured
Curling	Edge of hollow piece rolled into a specific shape.	Rolled, Curled
Bulging	Part of the hollow piece expanded radially, forming the convex shape.	Convex
Spinning	Rods or rollers are used to press the sheet blank into the desired shape.	Conical, Cylindrical
Shaping	Correcting and shaping workpieces with inaccurate shapes.	Custom
Levelling	Uneven surface or bend flattened.	Flat
Imprinting	The thickness of the workpiece changed, and text or patterns were embossed on the surface.	Textured
Forward extrusion	Metal blank undergoes plastic deformation, extruded from the die hole in the punch movement direction.	Extruded
Reverse extrusion	During metal extrusion, plastic flows in the opposite direction of punch movement.	Extruded
Compound extrusion	Combination of forward and reverse extrusion.	Extruded

Overview of the Classification of the Die Stamping Process

Structural Composition of Multi-Station Progressive Stamp

The multi-station progressive dies are composed of upper and lower molds. The upper mold has components, like the upper mold base, backing plate, punch fixing plate, discharge back plate, and discharge plate These all parts feature connections with the press via a T-shaped screw block. While the lower die is composed of a die base, pad, and concave die fixing plate. Moreover, they are fixed with a press workbench.

The multi-station die is categorized into the following processes.

Fixed Guide Plate Multi-Station Progressive Stamping Die

This die has no additional guide pillar between the templates. It only uses a medium-precision standard mold base. Moreover, the fixed guide plate is used to position and unload the strips. This kind of die is suitable for the specific raw material thickness, batch production, and product accuracy requirements. Here is a schematic diagram of the fixed guide plate die.

Semi-Elastic Plate Multi-Station Die Stamped

Semi-elastic die uses a pressure plate. It simplifies the structure and reduces the cost of production. Moreover, it uses a mold base with medium to high precision. So, it is suitable for raw material thickness, bulk production, and product accuracy with stability.

Integral Elastic Plate Multi-Station Progressive Stamping

This die is divided into type A and type B. So, it uses integral elastic pressure plates for guiding throughout the stamping process. It is structural properties may include a high-precision standard mould base. So, it has specific applications based on raw material thickness, production volume, product precision, and mold stability. It is a design principle focused on a precise connection and downward bending. So, here is a schematic diagram of an integral elastic plate.

Segmented Elastic Plate Multi-Station Stamping Die

This mold is designed for higher stamping speeds and improved efficiencies. It is mainly used for independent units which have high-grade precision mould bases, guide columns, elastic pressure plates, and precise positioning mechanisms. It has wide applications in Ultra-large batch productions and high-pressure requirements. Moreover, it also has a scope of application in rapid production replacement and ultra-speed stamping.

Comparison of Progressive Stamping Die vs Other Stamping Methods

 Metal industries have wide options of methods to convert the metal into desired parts. Every method has its pros and cons. In this aspect, progressive die metal stamping is also popular. It has a wide scope of applications in different industries. There are some alternatives to progressive stamping die .  So, let’s discuss the functioning of the methods available in the market.

Progressive Die Metal Stamping – Table of Comparison

Comparison Table for Progressive Die Metal Stamping and Other Processes

What are the Advantages of Progressive Die and Stamping?

Progressive die & stamping is an advanced method to make highly precise metal parts. So, it has wide applications in different industries. Let’s explore the benefits of this process;

1. High Efficiency. It allows the simultaneous execution of multiple operations in a single press cycle. So, it gives high production rates. Moreover, it is more efficient than the traditional stamping method.
2. Cost-Effectiveness: Progressive stamping dies operates multiple operations at a time. So, it cuts the labour cost and cycle time. It gives lower per-part cost for bulk productions.
3. Consistent Quality: This process gives a consistent part-to-part quality and dimensional accuracy. So, it has a precise nature. Moreover, it results in fewer defects and rejections and improves the overall production quality.
4. Complex Geometries: Progressive die metal stamping can accommodate complex parts and intricate geometries which are difficult to achieve. So, this is versatile and gives greater design freedom and innovation.
5. High Precision:  It allows tight tolerance and excellent reputability, so it. just stand part meets specific dimensional requirements with accuracy.
6. Reduced Secondary Operations: Manufacturing of metal parts requires secondary operations like machining, welding and assembling, but in stamping die, multiple operations are integrated sequentially in the same tooling system. So, it reduces both the time and manufacturing cost.

What are the Disadvantages of Progressive Stamping Metal Die

As a stamping metal die has many advantages. It has some limitations as well. So let’s discuss its disadvantages here.

1. It has a high initial tooling cost for setup.
2. This process requires regular maintenance and occasional replacement of dies.
3. Some complex geometries and materials are difficult to handle.
4. If an error appears during the process. It can lead to scrapped or defective parts.
5. Although this technique is suitable for bulk productions. However, it is not cost-effective for small quantities.

Applications of Progressive Stamping Die Process

Progressive Metal die and stamping is quite famous for its versatility and efficiency. It is a mostly used method to produce complex metal parts. So, it has various applications in the industry. These may include.

Automotive Industry

It is frequently used in this sector for the manufacturing of components, i.e. brackets, clips, connectors, and structural parts. These parts are important for the vehicle assemblies. They have high strength to offer. They are durable and have precise fitment.

Electronics and Electrical Appliances

The progressive stamped die method is used to produce components like connectors, terminals, and shields for electronic devices. Moreover, they have wide applications in the manufacturing of electrical appliances like housings, enclosures, heat sinks, etc.

Aerospace and Aviation

This process is important when it comes to precise and complex geometries. So, it has wide applications in the aerospace innovation sector for the manufacturing of components.

Consumer Goods

This process is famous for producing various consumer goods like kitchen appliances, furniture, hardware, and decorative items. Moreover, it is quite cost cost-effective manufacturing process and can create complex designs with precise dimensions.

Medical Devices

Progressive die metal sheet stamping has various applications in the production of medical components and equipment. These components may include surgical instruments and implantable devices. It is also used to manufacture diagnostic tools or equipment that require high precision and biocompatibility.

Renewable Energy

One of the most important applications of progressive die sheet metal stamping is the production of complex metal parts for renewable energy systems. These systems may include solar panels and wind turbines. Additionally, the components required in these systems are bracket brackets, frames, and structural supports.

Choose Masion for Progressive Stamping Die Design Services

Masion provides advanced techniques including progressive die metal stamping, for manufacturing metal parts. We have a well-equipped facility with highly experienced staff. Moreover, we deal with different types of metals. So, if you are looking for design consultation, tooling fabrication, and high-volume production. Masion is here to cater for your all requirements. Regardless of size, we take a minimum order of one part and produce parts in bulk. So, do not go anywhere. Contact us now!

Conclusion

In conclusion, progressive die metal stamping effective process for the manufacturing of metal parts. It gives accuracy and uniformity in every design. Progressive stamped die is comprised of multiple processes. They work within a single press cycle and streamline production. This process is beneficial for high-volume outputs and producing highly complex shapes.

Progressive die and stamping has a wide scope of applications in different industries, such as electronics, electrical appliances, aerospace aviation, and automotive industries. Besides its advantages, there are some limitations of progressive metal dies and stamping. For example, it is not cost-effective for low-volume productions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What materials are suitable for the progressive die stamping process?

It commonly uses materials with specific properties, i.e. strength, conductivity, corrosion resistance, and machinability. They may include steel, aluminium, copper, and brass.’’

Q2: What is the difference between die stamping and die cutting?

Stamped Die is the shaping of a metal sheet into a specific form. It generally uses a press and a die. while die cutting is the cutting of material like paper, cardboard, or fabric into specific shapes. It generally uses sharp-edged tools, known as die.

Q3: How would you define a progressive stamping press?

It is a machine that is used to convert the metal into a specific shape. It is comprised of multiple Stations these all are aligned inside the tooling system. This machine produced highly accurate and precise metal parts.

More Sources:

Deep Drawn Metal Stamping