SIMPLE: Using Metal Coils or Strips
Stamping: Forming metal coils or strips into shapes (blanks, embosses, and bends, for example) using a press (a single operation or a series of stages)
Metals used:
- Aluminum
- Electrolytic steel
- Stainless steel
Pros: Rapid production time (seconds) and most cost-effective part pricing
Cons: Tooling generally costs from $10,000 to $50,000, and tooling changes are limited.
Laser Cutting: Cutting and etching metal using a laser, usually through optics and CNC (Computer Numerical Control) for material or laser beam control. The process leaves a high-quality surface finish and permanently etched parts.
Metals used:
- Aluminum
- Sheet steel
- Stainless steel
Pros: No tooling needed
Cons: Slower process with longer turnaround time and higher prices
COMPLEX: Using Bar Stock or Melted Metal
Die Casting: Putting liquid metal into a mold under high pressure, commonly used for the production of complex geometries.
Metals used:
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Lead
- Magnesium
- Tin
- Zinc
Pros: Rapid production time (seconds) and cost-effective part pricing
Cons: Tooling generally costs from $10,000 to $50,000, and tooling changes are limited.
Machining: Drilling and threading bar stock, commonly used in production of nuts.
Metals used:
- Aluminum
- Brass
- Stainless steel
Pros: Little or no tooling needed
Cons: Slower process with longer turnaround time and higher prices
Want to know more? Contact Curtis: 508-845-6501 x306 or sales@donahueindustries.com.