Question 1

What files should I upload for metal stamping?

Accepted Answer

Upload a 2D drawing (PDF) and, if available, a 3D model. Include material and thickness, finish requirements, datums, CTQ callouts, burr direction needs, flatness zones (with measurement method), and formed feature tolerances.

Question 2

What drives cost the most in metal stamping?

Accepted Answer

Primary drivers include tooling approach (single-op vs progressive), thickness and material, feature density (pierces/forms), CTQ tolerance tightness, flatness requirements, secondary ops (deburr, tapping, inserts), and required inspection/control plan scope.

Question 3

How do you control burr direction and edge quality?

Accepted Answer

We plan die clearance and process orientation to manage burr direction and cut quality. When burr direction is CTQ for assembly or safety, we align handling and inspection to ensure consistency.

Question 4

How do you ensure repeatable hole locations?

Accepted Answer

Repeatability is achieved through stable strip control, validated die condition, and CTQ-focused gauging. For tight patterns, we use dedicated fixtures/gauges and set in-process verification frequencies.

Question 5

Can you support prototype-to-production programs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For prototypes, we can stage operations or use simpler tooling strategies. For production, we optimize die strategy (often progressive) to hit cost and repeatability targets at volume.

Question 6

What tolerances should I specify on stamped parts?

Accepted Answer

Tolerance the features that drive function and assembly: hole-to-hole/holedatum location, critical edges and interfaces, formed geometry, and defined flatness zones. Over-tolerancing non-critical dimensions can increase cost without improving fit. Reference our ***ISO 2768 chart***(/resources/charts/iso-2768-tolerance-chart), ***tap drill calculator***(/resources/tools/drill-tap-chart), and ***drill bit size chart***(/resources/charts/drill-bit-size-chart) when specifying holes and threads.

PrecisionMetal Stamping

PrecisionMetal Stamping