Best Metals to Use in Metal Stamping

Metal stamping is used in a wide variety of industries during the manufacturing process to convert flat metal into specific shapes. With different types of metals and stamping processes, there are many options to choose from. Here is a look at the different types of metals that can be used, and which will work best for each stamping process.

Different Metal Types

There are numerous metals that are commonly used in manufacturing. Each of them has pros and cons:

• Copper: Copper, as well as copper alloys such as brass and bronze, have great corrosion-resistant properties and electrical and thermal conductivity. They are very malleable and can be drawn thinner and smaller than other metals, making them an ideal choice for more complex stamp shapes. However, they are also a softer metal, so they are not as suitable for strength applications.
• Steel: Steel is a very strong, corrosion-resistant and versatile metal, and its toughness works well for many applications. It is also an economical choice when it comes to metals. But its strength also means that it is very heavy, so it is not as easily movable as some other metals.
• Aluminum: Aluminum is one of the lightest metals, so it is frequently used in industries such as transportation where weight reduction contributes to fuel and cost savings. Compared to steel, aluminum is more elastic, and so it can be stamped into more complex shapes.
• Specialty metals: Specialty metals are those formulated to withstand harsh environments, such as extreme temperatures or highly corrosive conditions. Common specialty metals include nickel and titanium. The strength of these metals often makes metal stamping more difficult.

Depending on your particular project, you may find one or multiple metals are best suited to your needs.

Best Metals For Metal Stamping

At Fairlawn Tool, we offer several different types of metal stamping, including:

• Sheet metal stamping: Sheet metal stamping is a basic metal stamping process for simple shapes. It works well for generating high volumes of parts. Steel is a good choice for this type of stamping, but it can also work with other metals such as aluminum.
• Progressive die stamping: This stamping process is for more complex shapes. During this process, the metal goes through different stations to shape the part. Copper is an ideal metal to use for this kind of stamping because it is thin and malleable.
• Precision metal stamping: This process works best for three-dimensional designs and surface engraving such as raised lettering. A variety of metals, such as steel, copper and aluminum, can be used for precision metal stamping.