Don’t forget to ask yourself these questions each time you consider metal stamping as your manufacturing choice for a new product. Think about the structure of your product and gather expert opinions (we are here to help) on whether this manufacturing method is the most suitable for you. If it is, what kind of technique – deep draw stamping, progressive die stamping, four-slide stamping – should you use? What works better, a mechanical press or a hydraulic press? Metal stamping also involves a wide variety of additional techniques such as deburring, polishing, sandblasting, and realigning. Which of these will your product require? You need to consider all these aspects before making up your mind.

It is a relatively low-cost metal fabrication process. Stamping dies are inexpensive to produce and easy to maintain if they are simple. Secondary costs, such as cleaning and plating, are also low. However, a cheaper alternative might be available, depending on certain factors such as your required quantity and desired finish. For example, if you need just a small batch of the goods, it might cost less to use the EDM (electrical discharge machining) wire cut method.

Yes. When choosing an inspection method, you need to carefully consider your requirements. For example, what degree of accuracy are you looking for? Will a simple check of your product’s geometry using a set of calipers do the job? Or do you need the precision of a coordinate measuring machine (CMM)? Opting for an excessively stringent measuring/inspection method (when you don’t really need one) might result in a higher scrap rate due to parts failing the check. Often, a test jig is a suitable and relatively cheap inspection method for stamped metal parts. It gives you a “real life” test of the part, is quick and easy to conduct, and requires minimal specialist training on the factory side. An example being that a jig is a good way to test the length, fit and plug orientation of a wiring harness.

This manufacturing method works out cheapest when you place a bulk order with the manufacturer. If your product can be made using an existing die, it saves you the expense of tooling a new custom die. It is also important to use the right raw material for your product. For example, if the material is too hard, it will take longer and harder to stamp. Switching to a softer material without compromising on the quality of your product will reduce production time and save you money. Reviewing the design aspects of your product is another way to lower expenses. For example, avoiding sharp internal and external corners will do away with the need for secondary treatment to remove those edges. Reducing tolerances where permissible will also lead to considerable savings. Finally, try and work with manufacturers who offer secondary services such as coating, finishing, treating, packaging and transport. This is yet another way of keeping your expenses low.