5 Effective Ways to Extend Punch Tool Life
December 2, 2021Manufacturing companies typically utilise different types of tools so they can produce a wide array of products to the market. One of the tools that they maximise is a punch.
A punch is a tool that can generate a hole or form an indentation on a given workpiece. It can also be utilised in locating centres for drawing circles, removing damaged rivets, bolts, or pins, and transferring the location of holes. To date, manufacturers can choose from a wide array of punches. Some types of punches that they can use are centre punch, drift punch, pin punch, and prick punch.
Punches can be effective in carrying out their core functions if they are maintained all the time. If you want to extend the service life of your punch tools, then here are some things that you must do.
- Maintain Sharpness
One great thing that you must do to extend the life of your punch tools is to maintain their sharpness. Punches are designed to operate for a long time. However, without sharpening them regularly, their edges would easily round them, which decreases their overall effectiveness. So, to keep your punches effective, you must regrind them at frequent intervals.
- Practice Lubrication
Another way to extend the life of your punch tools is to integrate lubrication into your applications. Lubrication can generally help your tools last longer as it can prevent friction’s heat from damaging both the punches and the workpiece. Lubrication of the tools can be practised by maximising a punch lubrication system. Alternatively, you can also lubricate the workpiece if possible.
- Position Appropriately
Aside from maintaining the sharpness and practising lubrication, the next thing that you can do to extend the life of your punch tools is to position them appropriately during operations. Both the punch and the tool must be aligned perfectly so that any deflection will be prevented. The clearance between the punch and the die must also be optimal to avoid obtaining issues along the way.
- Match the Materials
Punch tools are usually made from durable materials. However, they might still get damaged if they are utilised in stronger workpieces. Knowing the materials of the workpieces can help you identify if your available punch tools can process them effectively. For instance, if your workpiece is made from tough sheet metal, then you may want to opt for a punch that is made from wear-resistant steel.
- Ensure Proper Storage
One more thing that you can do to ensure the longevity of your punch tools is to ensure proper storage. Punch tools may be durable, but they still require proper storage so that they will not obtain any damages from elements. Storing them properly can likewise prevent them from damaging other tools and workpieces. Ultimately, labelling them can be a great way of organising the tools.
If you want to know more about punch tools, you can call us at Gunna Engineering.
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