Industrial punch press machines have allowed modern mass manufacturing to reach unfathomable levels of productivity and precision.
Arguably the biggest evolution in punch press processes, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) completely changed the way punch presses work, as well as vastly improving the rate at which they were able to work. But is it an essential part of modern punching machines, or could they survive without it? The experts at Cambridge Dynamics are here to discuss, so let’s get into it.
What is a punch press?
A punch press utilises excessive force (usually a hydraulic-powered ram) and carefully constructed dies to punch specific shapes into materials (most often sheet metal) so they can be used and manipulated in further production processes. The material is placed onto the die, before the ram is fired at strength into it, creating the desired effect. It is one of many types of press that are used today – the stamping press, for example, follows virtually the exact same procedure, the only difference being that the pressure creates a shape in the chosen material, rather than cutting it out entirely.
What is CNC and is it necessary?
Computer Numerical Control is a technology that allows users to control the precise motions and actions of machinery. In this case, CNC has been utilised in almost all major press work to offer more accurate pieces, while also automating much of the process, leading to a massive increase in completed pieces compared to presses completed by manual workers.
It isn’t strictly essential for punch pressing to be completed using CNC. After all, the same punch processes that had been performed for decades could still be completed in the same way. However, because of the severely increased demand of modern production, companies would not be able to meet the demands of consumers without the speed and precision offered by the technology, making it absolutely essential.
Here are just a few ways punch presses – and production as a whole – have benefited as a result of CNC technology:
3 ways CNC has changed punch press processes for the better
Safety
With tens of thousands of workers every year suffering non-fatal and, in some cases, fatal injuries in the manufacturing sector, according to data from The Health & Safety Executive, the need for effective safety measures in the workplace has never been more serious.
However, thanks to the partial automation provided by CNC technology to press processes, which can automatically load and remove workpieces, human workers don’t need to interact with press machines anywhere near as much as used to be necessary.
This reduces the likelihood of workers sustaining an injury, heightening safety standards as a result.
Speed
This level of automation has also greatly increased the rate at which new pieces can be produced through the use of a punching machine.
Because physical workers are no longer needed to load and re-load the presses manually after every single piece, and with multiple pieces being punched in a very short space of time, the manufacturing industry has been able to create the relevant products faster than ever before, raising overall output and profits.
Precision
Generally speaking, the more you can remove the human element from a job, the more accurate the resulting product is likely to be.
This is because automated processes – like the ones powered by CNC – can fine-tune results within thousandths of a millimetre in some cases, for unbelievably precise pieces.
It also limits the risk of human error which, while presenting safety concerns, can cause losses and lost time due to unsuitable results.
Speak to Cambridge Dynamics for all your punch press and CNC needs
In need of assistance with your punch press or stamp press requirements? Want to know how CNC technology can assist production within your business? Speak to the experts at Cambridge Dynamics.
With years of experience in all of the above and more, we’re ideally suited to assist you. To find out more, give us a call on 01480 459555 or send us an email via our contact form and a member of the team will get back to you shortly.