Punch Tips

Punches Should Wear Out, Not Chip or Crack!

At American Punch Company we hear reports of chipped faces or cracks around the center point. We’re glad to know that very few of these reports involve our punches.

If you are breaking, chipping or cracking punches, send us the broken tools and slugs of the material being punched.  We will be glad to make recommendations that will improve the performance of your machine and the safety in your plant.

Several factors contribute to punch performance. Here are some tips on how to recognize a punching problem and possible solutions to correct them.

• Loose coupling nut. A loose coupling nut allows the punch to shift during the punching process and leads to chipping or cracking.
• Misalignment. If the punch is not aligned to the hole in the die, non-uniform clearance will result.
• Improper clearance between the punch and die.
• Uneven stripping pressures.

Here is what to look for:

Stripping Failure

Chipping and Galling

Compressive Failure

Head Breaking Off

Ringing

Check the Slug