There is no one-size-fits-all equation for determining punching tool life. It can be tricky for experts to determine the exact number of punches an operator can expect from a tool.
According to Nick Kassermelli, business unit leader-punching and stamping division at Wilson Tool International’s Scarborough, Ont., office, it all depends on the application. He adds that the type of material being punched, the type of material the tooling is made from, tonnage, tool maintenance, and coating all affect the longevity of a tool and come into play when calculating tool life.
“I’ve had tools where I’ve exceeded a million hits without a problem,” said John Ripka, application technician, Mate Precision Tooling, Anoka, Minn. “I’ve also had tools where I haven’t even gotten close to that. A lot of it has to do with tool application and maintenance.”
To get the most out of your punching tools, avoid tool wear, and punch proper shapes, take a look at the following five factors.
Proper alignment, correct die clearance, treatments and coatings, sharp tools, and lubrication are five factors that will ensure fabricators get the most out of their punching tools, avoid tool wear, and punch proper shapes.
Read the full article in Canadian Fabricating & Welding
September 21, 2018