Punching is a technological process that consists in cutting out a given shape from a metal sheet or other prefabricated product. The most commonly used material is aluminum or steel. Depending on the strength properties, appropriate punching parameters should be selected. The pressure and its time are important. The punching process also requires specialized tools, the most important of which is the hydraulic press. It should provide sufficient force to be able to cut the material to the desired size. In addition, it must guarantee safe operation through the use of special guards and a press engagement strategy.
The bent and punched elements are made on a hydraulic press and on special tooling. These are dies, i.e. tools that directly produce the desired shape. The type of matrix that is placed between the press and the processed material is also important. The manufacturing tolerances of a given element depend on the accuracy of its execution and durability. The punching process can be significantly automated thanks to the use of CNC control. It allows you to easily adjust the pressure of the press, thanks to which you can make elements with very high repeatability, which is perfect for serial production.