1. Blanking Brass
Blanking is the first step in many stamping operations, where a flat sheet of brass is cut into the required size and shape, known as a “blank.” This blank is the raw material that will undergo further processing. The stamping press and die work together to cut out the shape, typically in the form of circles, squares, or custom designs, ready for the next steps.
2. Piercing Brass
Piercing involves creating holes or cutouts in a brass blank. A punch and die system is used to punch through the brass, leaving a clean, precise hole. Piercing can be done to create small holes for screws, rivets, or other features that require an opening.
3. Drawing Brass
Drawing is the process of forming a flat piece of brass into a three-dimensional shape, such as a deep-drawn cup or container. A punch and die are used to draw the brass blank into the die cavity, stretching it into a desired shape. This process requires careful control to avoid wrinkles or thinning of the material.
4. Bending Brass
Bending is used to form angular shapes in brass parts. A punch and die apply force to bend the brass along a specific axis, creating angles or curves. The material’s ductility allows it to be bent without cracking, making it perfect for parts that require precise geometric shapes or right-angle bends.
What Are the Common Post-Stamping Processes for Brass Stamping Parts?
Once brass stamping parts are created, several post-stamping processes are often required to refine the part, improve its functionality, and ensure it meets specific quality standards. Here are a few common post-stamping processes:
Deburring
Deburring is the process of removing sharp edges or burrs left behind after the stamping operation. These burrs can affect the part’s functionality, appearance, and safety. Techniques like grinding, tumbling, or using specialized deburring tools help smooth the edges for a cleaner finish.
Surface Finishing
Brass parts often undergo surface finishing to improve appearance and protect against corrosion. This can include processes like polishing, brushing, or plating (e.g., chrome or nickel plating). The right finish not only enhances the part’s visual appeal but also extends its lifespan in challenging environments.
Heat Treatment
Heat treatment processes, such as annealing, can be applied to brass stampings to improve their mechanical properties. Annealing softens the brass, making it more workable for subsequent processes or improving its ductility for specific applications. It can also relieve internal stresses from the stamping process, ensuring better part performance.
Assembly and Welding
After stamping, some parts may need to be assembled or welded together to form larger, more complex components. This is common for parts used in the automotive or electronics industries, where multiple stamped parts need to be joined to create a final product. Welding or fastening ensures the parts function as a single unit.