Different people use different metal forming tools these days. These metal forming tools are used to create custom sheet metal forms. But, out of all the methods used, two of the most frequently used methods are stamping metal parts and laser cutting.
Many people tend to get used confused between these two methods and think of them as one. If you are also one of those people, you do not need to worry anymore. We have prepared an in-depth comparison between stamping metal parts and laser cutting for you. Stay tuned to find out more.
In simple terms, stamping metal parts is a manufacturing process. In this manufacturing process, the manufacturers convert metal sheets into some particular shapes. Although metal stamping is an extraordinarily complicated and complex process, it is fast and cost-effective too. A lot of people use this method if they are looking to produce in bulk.
There are three basic types of stamping metal parts. Many people further sub-categorize these basic types into more categories. Let’s take a look at these basic categories below.
There are a lot of stations involved in progressive die stamping. All of the stations have a unique function of their own. Manufacturers feed strip metal through a progressive stamping press. This method is ideal for the manufacturers if they look for low labor cost, shorter run length, and fast turnaround.
The next type of stamping metal parts is fourslide stamping. This method is also known as multi-slide stamping and includes four different slides. All of these slides are in horizontal alignment. The four slides work simultaneously to shape the metal. This method is ideal for manufacturers who want to shape metal into complex parts and add more flexibility to their designs.
Deep draw stamping is a type of metal stamping that involves putting a blank metal sheet into the die through a punch. This allows the metal to form the desired shape that the manufacturer requires. Deep draw stamping is the ideal type of stamping for manufacturers that need to create shapes with several diameters.
We have listed a few advantages of stamping metal parts for you below. Let’s take a look at them.
One of metal stamping's most significant advantages is that this method of metal forming is more than just cutting. The machines can do a lot more than cut the holes in the metal. Additionally, you can even bend the sheets at any specific angle that you want.
Another prominent advantage of metal stamping is that the manufacturers can shape extremely thick metal plates with it. Sometimes, cutting a dense metal with a laser becomes nearly impossible. The high-tonage presses involved in metal stamping allow the thicker metal to form precisely the shape manufacturers require.
It can become challenging to shape high-temperature-resistant metal alloys through laser cutting. It is because their melting point is relatively high. This is where metal stamping can come to your aid. Metal stamping machines can cut and shape these alloys a lot more easily than lasers.
There are some disadvantages of using the metal stamping method to shape your metal as well. Check them out below.
One of the most significant disadvantages of using the metal stamping method is that its machines are incredibly high maintenance. Dies and tools used in the machine require constant care and maintenance. Otherwise, they can wear out extremely quickly, especially if they are used to shape hard metal alloys.
If you do not use or handle the machines correctly, the metal bends can create structural weakness. Thus, if improper motion takes place during a cut, the metal can become brittle. As a result, it will break down quickly.
Laser cutting is a new technology that is gaining a lot of popularity these days. in this technology, manufacturers use the laser to slice the material into the shape they require. Metal is one of the common materials that the manufacturers use to shape. Although this method is commonly used in industries, many schools, small-scale businesses, and hobbyists are also adopting this method.
Laser cutting technology can be divided into three main types. Although all these three types may look similar, they are not. So, what sets them apart? Keep reading to find out more about them.
When the laser beam is placed on the material's surface, it is known as laser marking. It is a type of laser cutting where the manufacturers slightly alter the properties of the material or metal placed in the machine. The appearance of the material does not change much as well.
It is a type of laser cutting where the manufacturers use the beams of the laser to remove the material's surface. When the laser beams remove the surface of the material, it exposes the cavity. The hole that is exposed reveals the design or the image at eye level.
Laser etching is a sub-type a type of laser engraving. It is a process in which the heat from the beams of the laser melts the surface of the material. When the metal or the material melts, it expands. As a result, it forms a raised mark on the metal or the material.
Laser-cutting technology is becoming incredibly popular these days. Want to know why? It is because of the advantages associated with this type of metal forming. Let’s check out a few of the benefits below.
Smooth edges and a shiny surface are the most prominent advantages of laser cutting. As a result, it reduces the risk of sharp and burr edges.
Close cutting is the most essential requirement when the manufacturers are designing custom metal shapes. Laser cutting helps the manufacturers to cut metal shapes extremely close together.
A laser cutting machine does not require physical contact with the workpiece. As a result, there is more minor wear and tear as compared to metal stamping.
You need to keep a few critical disadvantages to your mind while working with a laser cutting machine. So, let's take a look at a few of them.
When working with a laser cutting machine, you need to keep in mind the thickness and depth of the metal you are using. You will not be able to make a clean cut to extremely thick metal.
When you are working with metal, you will sometimes need to cut and bend it too. But unfortunately, laser cutting machines cannot make bends. You will require metal stamping for it.
Stamping metal parts and laser cutting are two of the most popular metal forming methods these days. While both ways have their own advantages and disadvantages, you can pick the method that best fits your requirements.
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