How to punch smaller holes than sheet thickness?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of punching 1mm holes in a 3mm thick sheet of stainless steel (SS 316) using a CNC punching machine. Participants explore various methods and considerations related to this problem, including technical limitations and alternative techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the possibility of punching 1mm holes in a 3mm thick sheet, suggesting that the holes would not be parallel.
  • One participant proposes drilling as a lower-tech solution, recommending the use of a Cobalt HSS drill or a solid carbide drill for multiple holes.
  • Alternative methods mentioned include water jet cutting and laser cutting as potential solutions.
  • EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) is suggested as a method, with distinctions made between Die-Sinking EDM and Fast Hole Drilling EDM, noting that the latter produces only cylindrical holes.
  • A participant references a formula from a manufacturing textbook to argue that the force required to punch the hole may exceed the punch's compressive strength, leading to potential bending or breaking of the punch.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of punching the holes, with some asserting it is not possible while others suggest alternative methods. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to achieve the desired hole size.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include assumptions about the material properties and the specific capabilities of the CNC punching machine. The discussion does not resolve the mathematical considerations related to the force required for punching.

Tarun Tanwat
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TL;DR
How to punch smaller hole than sheet thickness in stainless steel.
Is it possible to punch 1mm holes in a sheet of SS 316 of thickness 3mm. I have a CNC punching machine but not sure if this would be possible.
 
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Tarun Tanwat said:
TL;DR Summary: How to punch smaller hole than sheet thickness in stainless steel.
Is it possible to punch 1mm holes in a sheet of SS 316 of thickness 3mm.
Probably not. The hole would not be parallel.

The lowest tech solution would be to drill a few holes with a Cobalt HSS drill.
Second; is to use a solid carbide drill for one hundred holes.
Third would be a water jet, and fourth, a laser.
 
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EDM
 
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Tarun Tanwat said:
TL;DR Summary: How to punch smaller hole than sheet thickness in stainless steel.

Is it possible to punch 1mm holes in a sheet of SS 316 of thickness 3mm.
No. There is a formula in Manufacturing Processes for Engineering Materials by Kalpakjian for estimating the force on a punch:

Punch.jpg


From the total force, and the cross sectional area of the punch, you can calculate the compressive stress on the punch. Even if the punch had sufficient compressive strength to punch the hole, it would most likely bend sideways and break.
 
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