How To Boost Punch Life

1.Minimize Head Breakage

Punch head breakage is one of the most common problems stampers face. That's critical to know the ins and outs of alterations that make heads vulnerable.

2.Make It Bigger

Stamping tools succumb to tough materials when they lack rigidity. Starting with die set design, using the largest, shortest (stubbiest) punch design adds stability to the point diameter that pierces the hole, resulting in longer tool life.

3.Match Head and Plate Hardness

The stress of high-speed stamping can cause punches to work into the retainer, damaging both the punches and retainer. To prevent this, try using backing plates behind the punch pads or retainers that match punch head hardness (same HRC). This helps to prevent the punch from working into the die and minimizes vibrations.

4.Don't Discount Shear Angles

Stampers often avoid using punches with shear angles because die maintenance is difficult.  In comparison, a regular flat punch is easy to set up and sharpen on any surface grinder.

However, any headaches associated with die maintenance of punches with shear angles are well worth the results. Shear angles significantly reduce the shock (tonnage) and recoil within the punch. Reducing tonnage not only increases tool life, but also reduces press wear and tear. Reducing recoil minimizes punch head breakage and protects the die from slug pulling.

5.Exploit Back Tapers
Back tapers improve stripping, reduce galling, and increase punch wear resistance. A punch with a back taper reduces this heat and friction, resulting in longer punch life.