The History Of Industrial and Manufacturing Processes

Metal is one of the most diverse materials available on the market today. Sheet metal can be fabricated into many different products using a variety of industrial and manufacturing processes. One of these processes is stamping. Metal, in either coil or sheet form, is fed through a press where a tool and die stamp out the desired net shape.

Stamping is used to create components for both aircraft and automobiles. In order for any stamping process to be successful, the proper lubricant must be utilized. When you understand the importance of stamping lubricants, you can effectively use these lubricants to improve your stamping processes in the future.

1. Lubricants reduce friction.

As raw metal is fed through a stamping machine, friction is created. This friction generates heat that can be detrimental to your finished product. Too much friction can cause your metal components to warp during stamping.

Exposure to excessive friction over time can also result in damage to the die and tools that you utilize within your stamping machine. Always use a stamping lubricant to help reduce friction during manufacturing.

2. Lubricants prevent material damage.

In addition to the potential warping that can be caused by friction, failure to use the right stamping lubricant could result in surface abrasions that mar your metal components. Scratching or galling can become a real concern as raw metal moves through a stamping machine.

Stamping lubricants help the die and tools move easily across the surface of the metal being processed. When the die and tools can move easily, there is less of a chance that your metal will rip, tear, or fold during the manufacturing process.

3. Lubricants come in a variety of types.

Because lubricants play such a critical role in the stamping process, there are many different stamping lubricants available on the market. You have the option to utilize lubricants made from plant or mineral oils, animal fats or lard, graphite, soap, or acrylic.

Technological advancements in recent years have also resulted in the production of a polymer-based synthetic lubricant that is classified as oil-free. Consult the owner's manual for your stamping machine to determine which lubricant will help you achieve the highest quality when manufacturing metal component via stamping.

Using the right stamping lubricant can improve the quality and detail of your metal manufacturing. Invest in a lubricant to help reduce friction and prevent surface abrasions as you work with sheet metal in the future. Contact a company, like Hub Manufacturing & Metal Stamping, for more help.