Blanking is a metalworking process in which a circular or irregularly shaped blank (a flat, disc-like piece of material) is cut out from a larger sheet of metal using a die. The mechanical press is one of the most common machines used for blanking, combining the force of mechanical linkages to cut metal sheets into blanks efficiently.
In this guide, we'll explore how blanking mechanical press works, and its applications.
How Does a Blanking Mechanical Press Work?
The working of a blanking mechanical press can be broken down into several steps:
Material Loading:
A sheet of metal is loaded onto the bolster plate or feeding system of the press.
Engagement:
The flywheel, powered by the motor, begins to rotate. This rotational motion is transmitted to the ram via the crankshaft and mechanical linkages.
Punching Process:
When the punch is activated, it moves downward with great force. As the punch enters the die cavity, it shears the metal sheet along the edges of the punch. The blanked piece is separated from the remainder of the sheet.
Ejection:
After the blank is separated, the press may include an ejector system that pushes the blanked part out of the die. Some machines have automatic ejectors that remove the blank after each stroke, while others may require manual removal.
Cycle Completion:
The press returns to its starting position (i.e., the ram moves upward), and the process repeats for the next blanking cycle.
Applications of Blanking Mechanical Presses
High-speed blanking presses are used across a wide variety of industries to manufacture parts for numerous applications, including:
Automotive Industry:
Blank parts for car body panels, brackets, washers, and other components.
Electronics Manufacturing:
Blank parts for electronic housings, connectors, and enclosures.
Appliance Manufacturing:
Creating blanked parts for refrigerators, washing machines, and other household appliances.
Aerospace Industry:
Precision blanking of metal sheets used in structural components, such as wings and fuselages.
Heavy Equipment Manufacturing:
Blankings of heavy-duty parts such as plates, gears, and machine components.
Construction and Metalworking:
Blank parts used in structural components and metal structures for construction.
The blanking press machine is a powerful tool for cutting and shaping metal sheets into blanks for further processing or as final parts. For businesses aiming for cost-effective and rapid production of flat metal parts, the metal blanking mechanical press remains a cornerstone of sheet metal processing technology.