Stainless steel stamping is a process that allows the metal to be shaped into a specific form. It is possible to create geometric profiles, even complex ones, without excessive material waste, while maintaining all the valuable properties of stainless steel.
To perform stamping, advanced machinery is required, along with a deep understanding of the metal and its processing. Each case must be evaluated individually to determine the best options for meeting the specific needs of the target market.
In this article, we will explain in more detail what stainless steel stamping is, its characteristics, advantages, applications, and the differences between hot and cold working processes.
What is stainless steel stamping?
As mentioned earlier, stainless steel stamping is a process that allows the metal to be deformed and/or shaped to achieve a predetermined form through the use of suitable molds, the application of press forces, and the use of other tools applied to the molds (such as punches, for example, which are useful for creating holes, engravings, and embossments).
Stainless steel stamping is carried out on objects of both large and small dimensions, including machine parts or components with varying thicknesses. Cold stamping is often associated with deep drawing, a specific press-working technique that gives the stainless steel sheet a box-like or cup-shaped form.
The advantages of stamping
Stamping allows for the versatile and cost-effective production of semi-finished products, components, and complex assemblies in large quantities, ensuring speed and efficiency. Precision work avoids material waste, thus also reducing the final costs of the entire product transformation process.
Why use it specifically on stainless steel? Because stainless steel is a resistant, durable, and robust metal, well-suited for this type of process. It enables accurate creations that can be adapted to a wide variety of markets, production needs, and customizations.
Sectors of application
Stamping is a rigorous and precise process used in various sectors, including food, automotive, petrochemical, and chemical industries, to name just a few. These are fields where stainless steel is chosen for its undeniable characteristics, such as strength, mechanical resistance, and durability.
Hot and cold stainless steel stamping: what are the differences?
Typically, stainless steel stamping involves several processing stages, including:
- the creation of a mold that meets the design and shape agreed upon with the client;
- the installation of the mold onto the machine (along with any accessories);
- the loading of the steel sheet;
- the start of the process, which can take place either hot or cold.
In particular, during hot stamping, the metal sheet is subjected to high temperatures. There are various methods to carry out this process. For example, direct hot stamping involves heating the sheet, transferring it onto a cold mold, and then processing it. In indirect hot stamping, the stainless steel undergoes a “heating” process both before and after stamping. This option is primarily used for creating complex geometries or, with the deep-drawing technique, for deep processes such as making ice cream tubs.
On the other hand, with cold stamping, the material is processed at room temperature. Specifically, when hydraulic machines are used, the stainless steel is placed between the punch and the mold, subjecting the material to the deforming force of the presses, achieving even significant depths. This is a faster process, mainly chosen for the production of small components, in series or with varying thicknesses.o soprattutto per la produzione di componenti di piccole dimensioni, in serie o con spessori differenti.
Stainless steel stamping: is cold or hot stamping better?
The choice between these two types of processing can vary depending on whether simple or complex shapes need to be produced. However, it is crucial that this process is performed with precision and expertise. The creation of the mold, in particular, is essential to ensure that every operation is carried out correctly, preventing issues such as production stoppages, waste, and defects in the metal.
Stainless steel stamping: the art of shaping and customizing a component
Thanks to stainless steel stamping, it is possible to create customized components, even in large quantities, with precision and maximum reliability. As mentioned earlier, different machines are used for this process, both hot and cold, and not all companies working with steel have all the necessary equipment to complete every stage of the process.
At Metal’s, however, we have a machine park equipped for stainless steel stamping. Our hydraulic machines boast a pressing power of 1,000 tons, while our mechanical machines can reach up to 400 tons. These are important features that, if necessary, allow us to perform deeper, more precise, and extensive deep-drawing operations without damaging the material (such as causing bends or cracks).
These advanced and professional technologies enable us to meet the growing demands of clients who require specific designs or custom needs. For example, companies operating in the food industry, producing ovens, dishwashers, and other professional equipment for the catering sector. Regarding the preparation and creation of molds, we can work on existing projects—perhaps suggesting possible improvements and implementations—or develop new ones in collaboration with the client and our team of technicians, optimizing costs and streamlining the process.
Stainless steel stamping is typically suited to large-scale production, and once the deep-drawing molds are agreed upon, the process moves swiftly. In this regard, custom molds allow for the production of high-quality, flawless components, significantly speeding up production.
Additionally, the client can opt for other treatments such as pickling and passivation (to remove impurities and improve corrosion resistance), or surface treatments like shot peening and satin finishing (to enhance aesthetics), along with final surface cleaning. These processes can be optional or necessary. For the medical sector, for instance, it is essential that surfaces are treated with brushing, a finish that ensures greater hygienic safety (as indicated in decree no. 269 of December 12, 2007).
This approach is ideal for offering safe products that comply with the regulations in the target market and meet all the client’s requirements. At Metal’s, we can evaluate and agree on these treatments together to achieve all the set goals, optimizing the entire process.
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