While punch presses (and similar presses) have held an essential role in metal fabrication operations for centuries now, it’s safe to say that modern innovations have allowed for the process to become more efficient than it’s ever been.
In turn, teams operating such machinery have seen productivity levels skyrocket, production numbers go through the roof, and profits leap in an equally desirable direction.
But what precisely about modern punch press machines makes them such an invaluable tool compared to older, less suitable alternatives?
At Cambridge Dynamics, we’re experts in automation equipment that can help boost production numbers within your enterprise, along with other enticing benefits. Speak to a member of the team today for further details, or keep reading to learn more.
What is a punch press machine?
Punching machines use excessive force to “punch” a particular shape out of a workpiece (most commonly sheet metal). This is in comparison to stamping presses that apply pressure through bending, rather than punching, to achieve the correct shape.
The piece is placed between a ram (usually hydraulic or mechanical) and a carefully crafted ultra-strong die that matches the desired shape.
The ram applies intense pressure which then cuts the shape out of the metal. The piece is then replaced and the process begins all over again to produce many punched workpieces.
This process can produce countless different kinds of punched shapes to be used across a wide array of industries that manufacture complete parts.
Why modern punch press machines are so fast and efficient
Automation
One of the main reasons the modern punch press process has become so efficient is the addition of automation technologies that take much of the work out of the hands of physical labourers and place it into computer-powered machines.
Specifically, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) software has allowed punch presses to become much more self-reliant, automating various elements of the job, and boosting speed.
For example, many CNC-powered presses now have the capability to load and unload workpieces in large quantities very quickly; faster than their human counterparts.
With more pieces being punched more frequently, production productivity has risen significantly and will continue to do so as this technology evolves.
Precision
Another example of how automation in modern punch press machines has been a game-changer is the degree of accuracy with which these machines can now perform their role.
Before automation, each sheet needed to be carefully loaded by a member of staff, and punched, before being removed.
However, this left the doors open for misplaced pieces, resulting in less-than-satisfactory results and lost productivity and profits.
CNC automation solves this. Because the process is pre-programmed and performed by machines, the workpieces will be placed in the precise, correct location within the punch press, to an insane degree of accuracy, every single time.
By cutting the number of unusable workpieces, productivity naturally improves.
Safety
Some may have their gripes with automation technology (it’s far from perfect!) but it’s hard to argue it hasn’t been used to seriously boost safety standards in many areas of manufacturing.
In punch presses specifically, automation technologies have been implemented to automatically cease operations should a safety issue arise.
Sensors can be fitted within parts of the punch press that are within range of the high-powered ram. Should anything cross these censors at the improper time, all production can be halted in an instant, potentially preventing a terrible accident.
Safety is also heightened by preventing the need for constant heavy lifting on the part of employees, which could help avoid strain-related injuries that develop over time.
Want to know more about automated punch press machines? Speak to Cambridge Dynamics
At Cambridge Dynamics, we have decades of combined experience in punch press processes, automation, CNC milling and many other areas of production.
Using this expertise, we can craft custom automation equipment to take your business to the next level, so you can reap all of the above benefits and more.
Whether you’re in need of a compact punching machine, or something larger and more robust, we’re the team to connect with.
To find out more about our services and how we can be of assistance, speak to a member of the Cambridge Dynamics team today.