Jan

What Is the Difference Between Drawing and Stamping?

Precision deep drawing and precision metal stamping are both popular metalwork techniques that produce various parts dependent on the need of the product. So, what is the difference between drawing and stamping? The article below will outline the major differences between the deep drawing process and metal stamping, as well as the pros and cons of each process.

The Difference between Drawing and Stamping

The world of metalwork has changed drastically over the last couple of centuries. Modern manufacturing is what it is today because of the mistakes and successes learned by seventeenth-century blacksmiths. Metal manipulation, such as precision metal stamping and deep draw stamping, have also been around for centuries; it is the technology that has changed.

Metal Stamping

Precision metal stamping is a high-speed manufacturing process that produces identical parts at a fast pace. Stamping transforms flat sheet metal, also known as blanks, into any desired shape by using either hot or cold rolled sheets of steel. This process involves the following main types of dies:

Blanking
Bending
Piercing
Embossing
Flanging
Coining

Deep Draw Stamping

Precision deep draw stamping produces dimensional accuracy and smooth finishes by using a series of progressive dies to repeatedly and incrementally stretch raw material into the desired shape. Deep drawing creates intricate and complex parts and shapes at high speed with both efficiency and accuracy. Deep drawing products are also considered more durable than stamped products, as they undergo more stress and pressure during production.

The Pros and Cons of Metal Stamping

Metal stamping is an industry-wide favorite, used across the metalworking world due to ease of use. Precision metal stamping is both durable and flexible, perfect for large-scale industries such as the military and the medical world. The following outlines the pros and cons of the metal stamping process.

Advantages of Metal Stamping

Metal stamping is a high-speed precision manufacturing process that takes up less physical space than other machinery. This process is also easy for employees to learn as it requires relatively basic machine operations. Finally, precision metal stamping is extremely versatile as it uses a variety of metals to create different shapes and sizes. The metals used in metal stamping include 300-series stainless, 400-series stainless, precipitation-hardening, and titanium.

Disadvantages of Metal Stamping

Unfortunately, precision metal stamping can produce high levels of scrap as the sheet metal must be completely flat before use. Additionally, because it is simpler than the deep drawing process, it cannot produce customized and complex products. Although metal stamping can churn out many products at once, it is still labor-intensive and can be a slower manufacturing process than other metalworking techniques.

The Pros and Cons of Deep Drawing

Another industry-wide favorite, precision deep drawing is a more precise, refined manufacturing process that produces smooth-finished parts and higher levels of accuracy. The deep drawing process requires formability using a durable and strong alloy with the capacity to bend without breaking. This process also must consider the variables for the deep drawing process, such as material type, thickness, size and shape, temperature, and more.

Advantages of Deep Drawing

Similar to metal stamping, deep drawing produces a high volume of quality product with a fairly simple, easy-to-use machine. Deep drawing also has the capacity to create complex designs for more creative demands without any design limitations. This process also uses a variety of metal materials, making it more flexible than other manufacturing processes. This form of manufacturing is available industry-wide, allowing workers to easily troubleshoot with others and access expert knowledge.

Deep drawing is also great for thickness-critical products and applications. Because the material essentially flows like a tube of toothpaste, the final part has the same wall thickness all the way around, with all the same mechanical properties.

Common Problems with Deep Drawing

Due to its more complex nature, deep drawing can also be more costly. The specific tools needed for a deep-drawn part are more expensive than metal stamping. Along the same lines, deep drawing requires specialized equipment that can only be used in specific factories with the right machinery.

Manufacturing Components Using Deep Draw Stamping and Metal Stamping

Precision deep drawing and metal stamping are both widely used to manufacture metal parts.

Why Utilize Deep Draw Metal Stamping?

Deep draw metal stamping is ideal for products that need to be air or watertight due to the material thickness, with significant formability and a seemingly weightless material. Deep draw stamping is also ideal for specific geometric designs and complex shapes. This is a very specialized process and is ideal for meeting unconventional needs.

What Industries Use Metal Stamping?

There are a wide variety of industries that use metal stamping. The most notable industries are aerospace, fluid power (such as hydraulics), oil and gas, and medical. The shipping and transportation industries, the military, and public transportation also benefit from the durability and precision of metal stamping.

Acquire Materials for Precision Metal Stamping & Deep Drawing

Generally speaking, alloys with a higher nickel content are preferred for deep drawing. Nickel is highly malleable, so these alloys are able to be drawn deeper with a reduced risk of fracturing or other issues occurring.

Whether you're precision stamping or deep drawing, Ulbrich has the alloys and expertise to supply you with optimal materials for your manufacturing processes.

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