How to punch smaller holes than sheet thickness?

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SUMMARY

Punching 1mm holes in a 3mm thick sheet of SS 316 is not feasible due to the structural limitations of the material and the punching process. The discussion highlights that using a CNC punching machine would result in non-parallel holes. Alternative methods include drilling with a Cobalt HSS drill, using a solid carbide drill for multiple holes, or employing water jet and laser cutting techniques. Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM), specifically Die-Sinking EDM or Fast Hole Drilling EDM, are also viable options depending on the desired hole shape.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of CNC punching machines
  • Knowledge of SS 316 stainless steel properties
  • Familiarity with drilling techniques, including Cobalt HSS and solid carbide drills
  • Basic principles of Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the capabilities and limitations of CNC punching machines
  • Explore the differences between Cobalt HSS and solid carbide drills for stainless steel
  • Learn about Water Jet Cutting and Laser Cutting technologies
  • Investigate Die-Sinking EDM and Fast Hole Drilling EDM applications
USEFUL FOR

Manufacturing engineers, machinists, and anyone involved in metal fabrication processes, particularly those working with stainless steel materials.

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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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