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Which is best for your application, fine blanking or progressive die?

In the world of precision metal stamping, the choice between fine blanking and progressive die can have a significant impact on product quality and production efficiency. Although both are used to manufacture complex metal parts, their mechanisms, output quality, die complexity, and cost impact differ. In actual production, the choice between them often leaves engineers torn. Both technologies have proven their value in mass-production environments; however, choosing the wrong technology may result in higher costs, increased scrap rates, or unacceptable tolerances. How the Two Processes Work Fine blanking and progressive die stamping rely on different mechanical principles. Fine blanking uses triple-action presses that apply simultaneous forces to minimise part distortion. A V-ring holds the material in place while a counter punch eliminates burrs. The result is a clean, straight edge. In contrast, a progressive die operates within a single stamping press. It uses a strip of metal fed through sequential stations, each performing a step in the forming process. Punching, bending, and coining are all possible in one continuous movement. This setup allows high-speed output but may result in more visible burrs or taper on part edges. Tolerances and Edge Quality When tight tolerances and smooth edges are non-negotiable, fine blanking often proves to be the superior choice. It produces parts with edge characteristics similar to machined surfaces. That makes it ideal for critical applications, such as gears, seatbelt components, and parts of the anti-lock braking system (ABS). However, a well-designed progressive die can also deliver precision. Especially with added finishing steps or additional stations, a progressive die can achieve impressive consistency. The trade-off lies in edge sharpness and potential secondary deburring. For non-safety-critical components, progressive stamping might offer the perfect balance of cost and quality. Material and Thickness Considerations Fine blanking is most effective with softer materials and medium thickness ranges, typically up to 10 mm in thickness. Harder metals can increase tooling wear and reduce die life. Additionally, the materials used must be ductile enough to avoid cracking under triple-action forces. Progressive die stamping, on the other hand, accommodates a broader range of materials. From thin foil to more complex alloys, this process offers greater versatility. It’s also easier to integrate coatings or laminations, which may not perform well under the delicate blanking process. Volume, Cost, and Tooling Investment Tooling costs vary significantly between the two methods. Fine blanking dies are more complex and expensive to manufacture. They’re often reserved for high-volume runs where edge quality is paramount. However, the per-part cost may decrease with scale, making the upfront investment worthwhile. Progressive die tooling tends to cost less and offers faster lead times. It’s also more adaptable to product changes, especially in early production stages. For projects with lower volumes or future design variability, progressive die tooling is a financially sound option. Part Complexity and Design Flexibility If your component has undercuts, precise functional surfaces, or needs coining, fine blanking delivers superior dimensional control. It reduces the need for secondary operations and ensures consistent flatness. The downside is limited geometry options compared to progressive die stamping. Progressive dies excel when parts require multiple forming actions or integrated features, such as tabs, lances, or embossing. Designers can embed various functionalities into a single tool path. That opens up creative freedom while keeping part of the production within a lean framework. Production Speed and Cycle Time Fine blanking is slower by nature. The press cycles must accommodate counterpressure and precise material control. Typical speeds range from 20 to 100 strokes per minute. While not slow per se, it’s significantly less rapid than progressive systems. In contrast, progressive dies thrive at high-speed operation. It’s not unusual to see 300–800 strokes per minute, especially in automated production lines. This makes it ideal for consumer electronics, automotive clips, or any part requiring volume over micro-precision. Secondary Operations and Post-Processing Fine blanking usually eliminates the need for secondary machining, deburring, or grinding. Its precision minimises downstream work, saving both time and cost in finishing departments. Progressive dies may necessitate finishing, depending on the material and edge quality. However, many systems now integrate brushing, in-die tapping, or marking stations. This evolution narrows the gap and makes progressive stamping increasingly self-contained. Choosing fineblanking and a progressive die based on the application When choosing between fine blanking and progressive dies, it ultimately comes down to your application priorities. If you are looking for high-edge quality, structural integrity, and tight tolerances, the fine blanking die is more suitable for you. For high-volume, cost-sensitive production with acceptable tolerances, the progressive die is still the best choice.

Stamping Die
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What Makes a Good Stamping Die for Type-C Connector Parts?

Type-C connectors are one of the most widely used interfaces in today’s electronic products. The compact size and versatility make it popular among manufacturers across various industries. However, it has a delicate internal structure, numerous pins, a dense layout, and challenging welding. Additionally, the stamping die tolerances in the manufacturing process are extremely strict. If the stamping dies accuracy does not reach microns, misalignment, part failure, and a significant amount of time and money will be wasted. Precision requirements for Type-C geometry Type-C connectors are compact, typically with wall thicknesses under 0.2 mm. Therefore, the stamping die must consistently maintain tolerances in the micron range. Standard deviation in dimensions can lead to functional failures, including poor mating, misalignment, and unstable data transmission. To achieve this, the die must be designed using high-precision machining and advanced CAD/CAM systems. Every cavity, edge, and profile must be optimized for minimal wear and repeatability. The correct gap between punch and die is crucial—too tight, and you risk rapid wear; too loose, and you compromise accuracy. Material selection for die longevity Not all die steels are created equal, especially when dealing with stainless steel or copper alloy sheets commonly used in USB-C components. Tool steels, such as DC53 or ASP23, provide the hardness and toughness necessary to withstand millions of cycles. Additionally, coatings such as TiCN or DLC can significantly reduce friction and wear, thereby extending the lifespan of the die. Choosing the right material and coating combination means fewer shutdowns and lower long-term costs. A reliable stamping die starts with intelligent material selection. Die design for burr-free edges Burrs are the enemy of electrical contacts. For Type-C parts, even the smallest burr can interfere with signal integrity or assembly. That’s why the die must be engineered to minimize burr formation during blanking and forming. This involves optimizing the shear angle, punch sharpness, and clearance between mating surfaces. Multi-stage progressive dies can also be designed to include a deburring or coining stage, ensuring parts exit the press with a clean finish. Tight strip layout and material utilization The layout of the strip—the metal sheet as it passes through the die—is a key element in both cost and quality. For small components, such as Type-C contacts, even a 0.1 mm misalignment can cause reject rates to spike. High-quality stamping dies utilize precise pilot pins, guides, and sensors to ensure alignment. Moreover, optimizing the layout for material usage can reduce scrap, especially when working with expensive materials like beryllium copper. Less waste means higher profitability. Durability in high-volume production USB-C connectors are produced in massive quantities, so the die must withstand high-speed, high-cycle operation. This places stress on every part of the die, including guides, punches, springs, and strippers. Advanced die builders use hardened components and precision-ground surfaces to ensure long-term durability. Regular maintenance cycles can be built into the die’s design to minimize downtime. A stamping die built for endurance supports uninterrupted production lines. Integration with automation systems In modern facilities, diseases rarely operate in isolation. Instead, they form part of fully automated stamping lines. For USB-C components, automation ensures consistency and reduces labor costs. A high-quality stamping die includes provisions for sensors, ejectors, and automatic feeding systems. These elements ensure smooth part ejection, real-time quality checks, and alignment correction. Integrated automation reduces errors and boosts efficiency. Quality control and stamping dies validation Building the die is only half the equation—validating its performance is equally important. Manufacturers must perform pre-article inspections, capability studies, and pilot runs to ensure that the stamping die meets performance criteria. Inspection methods, such as vision systems or laser measurement tools, help catch defects before full-scale production begins. Documentation and revision control also play a role. A validated stamping die provides confidence and data-backed assurance. Choosing the proper stamping die facilitates the manufacturing of USB-C parts In USB-C production, it is crucial to see the precision stamping die. It determines whether the output is smooth because even a slight deviation may cause part scrapping and waste of resources. Choosing the right material and design, combined with strict quality control, can help maintain stable production and minimize waste.

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Upcoming Participation: INTERMOLD 2025 Tokyo

April 2025 | Tokyo, Japan We’re excited to announce our participation in INTERMOLD 2025, Asia’s premier exhibition for mold technology and precision manufacturing. We look forward to engaging with global industry leaders and showcasing our expertise in high-precision stamping dies through collaborative discussions. This event aligns with our strategic focus on addressing Japan’s growing demand for advanced solutions in automotive electronics, micro-components, and ultra-thin material stamping. Visitors to the exhibition can learn about our latest innovations in energy-efficient die manufacturing and multi-stage forming systems designed to meet stringent quality standards in high-volume production. Stay tuned for updates on our virtual presentations and downloadable technical resources during the event. We invite partners and clients to connect with us remotely to explore how our precision tooling solutions can optimize your manufacturing processes.

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EuroBLECH 2024 Hannover Exhibition

November 2024 | Hannover, Germany   We proudly participated in Euroblech 2024, the world’s leading trade fair for sheet metal working technology, held in Hannover, Germany. As an exhibitor, we showcased our latest advancements in precision stamping die solutions, including high-speed progressive dies, multi-stage forming technologies, and AI-driven quality control systems. The event provided an exceptional platform to connect with global industry leaders, share expertise in precision tooling, and explore emerging trends in the automotive, electronics, and industrial manufacturing sectors. Our team engaged with clients across Europe and established promising partnerships, reinforcing our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, customized die solutions for complex manufacturing challenges.

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What device is used for CNC gong processing?

The effect will be better if precision equipment is used for processing. How can this be said? First, the processing effect is much faster, and then the processing power is much faster. In addition, smart devices are constantly increasing, and automation is becoming more and more obvious. Therefore, the requirements for skills in CNC gong processing and milling machine processing are getting higher and higher. CNC gong processing is to process products, use computers with digital control systems, and set up more precise processing and production. Compared with traditional mechanical processing, the power or quality of modern CNC gong processing is better than traditional manual prototypes. With the continuous development of computer technology, processing equipment can process more parts at the same time. CNC equipment now has a great integration advantage than before and has become the mainstream processing method now. The advantage of CNC prototype is that it can accurately reflect the information expressed in the drawing, and the surface quality of CNC prototype is high, especially after the surface spraying and silk screen printing are completed, it is even more dazzling than the products produced after the mold is opened. Therefore, it is not unreasonable that more and more people choose CNC prototype processing and production. 1. The precision and surface roughness of CNC prototype parts: If the tolerance requirement is 0.05mm, the requirements for both processing equipment and prototype masters are relatively high, and the cost will be much higher; 2. If the material of the CNC prototype parts is difficult to process, such as stainless steel, the material hardness is high, and tungsten steel hardened tools are required, and the CNC gong needs to be made by Taiwan or Japanese machines. Of course, the cost will be higher than that of general materials. 3. The structure and size of CNC prototype parts: If the product structure is messy, the processing cost will be much higher; if the overall size of the product is large or the appearance is a curved surface, the processing cost will also increase a lot.

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How to improve the development of precision stamping die processing in China?

Molds are basic process equipment with large usage and wide influence in the manufacturing industry. They are known as the “mother of industry” and “crown industry” and are high-tech intensive industries. Stamping die-a special process equipment that processes materials (metal or non-metal) into parts (or semi-finished products) in cold stamping is called cold stamping die (commonly known as cold stamping die). Stamping-is a pressure processing method that uses a mold installed on a press to apply pressure to the material at room temperature to separate or plastically deform it, thereby obtaining the required parts. Stamping dies are indispensable process equipment for stamping production and are technology-intensive products. The quality, production efficiency and production cost of stamping parts are directly related to mold design and manufacturing. The level of mold design and manufacturing technology is one of the important indicators of a country’s product manufacturing level, and largely determines the quality, efficiency and new product development capabilities of the product. At present, multi-station progressive dies with step accuracy and forming accuracy of about 2μm can be produced. Small precision hardware continuous molds belong to high-end molds in the mold industry, with the characteristics of complex structure, high precision of parts processing, fast stamping speed and long service life. Small hardware high-speed continuous stamping molds are widely used in the electronics industry, and are also the most important tools for developing and producing structural parts of emerging products such as mobile phones and other mobile communication terminals. In the “Eleventh Five-Year Plan” of the mold industry, precision stamping molds, especially small precision hardware high-speed continuous stamping molds closely related to the electronic information industry, are listed as development priorities. To produce high-precision and high-stability stamping parts, it is necessary to improve the technical level of stamping molds. With the development of microelectronics technology, the integration of consumer terminals such as mobile phones and digital products is getting higher and higher, while their size and weight are decreasing significantly, requiring the various components inside them to be smaller and smaller. For example, the connectors supporting mobile phones and digital products are also developing towards ultra-miniaturization and thinness. The lead spacing of the connector has been reduced to 0.5mm, 0.4mm, and 0.3mm, which also promotes the development of precision mold technology. (1) Vigorously cultivate talents in mold design and processing; (2) Vigorously improve the level of domestic mold processing equipment; (3) Vigorously improve the quality of domestic mold materials; (4) Support domestic enterprises with good mold foundation, and gradually produce a group of leading mold enterprises close to international standards.

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New Developments in Precision Mold Processing Fuel Industry Growth

With the development of the domestic hardware stamping parts industry, competition from various provinces has become increasingly fierce. Disorderly competition in the hardware stamping parts industry has begun to appear, and the disadvantages of low cost, low product structure and low technical content of hardware have become increasingly apparent. At present, from a general point of view, my country can only be called a major producer of hardware stamping parts processing molds, but not a strong producer. There is still a gap of 10 to 15 years between its products and those of developed countries. At present, it is still dominated by medium and low-end products. In recent years, my country’s mold industry will continue to grow rapidly while showing the following characteristics: products continue to develop in the direction of larger, more precise, complex and economical, the technical content will continue to increase, the manufacturing cycle will continue to shorten, and the production of hardware stamping parts processing molds will continue to develop in the direction of informatization, digitization, refinement, high speed and automation. Enterprises will further enhance their comprehensive strength and core competitiveness in all aspects. The hardness test of metal stamping parts adopts Rockwell hardness tester. Small stamping parts with complex shapes can be used to test the surface that is difficult to test on ordinary desktop Rockwell hardness tester. Stamping parts processing includes punching, bending, drawing, forming, finishing and other processes. The materials processed by stamping parts are mainly hot-rolled or cold-rolled (mainly cold-rolled) metal strip materials, such as carbon plate, alloy steel plate, spring steel plate, galvanized plate, tin plate, stainless steel plate, copper and copper alloy plate, aluminum and aluminum alloy plate, etc. Portable surface Rockwell hardness tester is very suitable for testing the hardness of these stamping parts. Alloy stamping parts are the most commonly used parts in metal processing and mechanical manufacturing. Stamping parts processing is a processing method that uses molds to separate or form metal strips. Its application range is very wide. The main purpose of hardness testing of stamping materials is to determine whether the annealing degree of the purchased metal sheet is suitable for the subsequent stamping processing. Different types of stamping processing require steels of different hardness levels. Aluminum alloy plates used for stamping processing can be tested with a Webster hardness tester. When the material thickness is greater than 13mm, a Barcol hardness tester can be used. Pure Lu plates or low-hardness aluminum alloy plates should use a Barcol hardness tester. In the stamping industry, stampings are sometimes also called sheet forming, but there is a slight difference. The so-called sheet forming refers to the use of sheets, thin-walled tubes, thin-shaped materials, etc. as raw materials. The forming method of plastic processing is collectively referred to as sheet forming. At this time, the deformation in the direction of the thick plate is generally not considered.

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Is the processing process of precision stamping dies strict?

The processing procedures of the main working parts of precision metal stamping dies, namely the convex and concave dies, do not have high technical requirements for operation and can form more complex cavities at one time. In recent years, Switzerland, Japan and other countries have conducted in-depth research and major improvements on electrical processing equipment, and have manufactured fully functional high-precision NC and CNC wire cutting machines with processing accuracy of ±0.005~ 0.001mm, or even smaller. The processing surface roughness Ra value can reach 0.4μm. The precision metal stamping dies produced by Jingzhong Mould have a blanking size accurate to +/-0.002, and the bending size is within +/-0.08mm. The first step of metal stamping processing dies is to cut the material. At the very least, the blank must be cut or sawed off from the raw material of the die steel, and then it is rough processing. The surface and size of the newly cut blank are relatively poor, so it needs to be put on a grinder for rough grinding. At this time, it belongs to rough processing, so the size requirements are not high, and generally a tolerance of 50 wires is enough. After rough processing, heat treatment is required. Generally, heat treatment is processed by a special heat treatment plant. There is not much to introduce about this. After heat treatment, fine processing is required. Generally, it is first fine-grinded on a grinder. At this time, the size requirements are more stringent. Generally, the accuracy should be around 0.01. Of course, this accuracy is not absolute. The specific accuracy requirements should also refer to the complexity and precision of the metal stamping parts that the metal stamping mold needs to process. After the grinding machine is completed, the previous design drawings are installed for processing. Generally, the wire holes are threaded first, and then the required size and shape are cut out according to the drawings, and then the milling machine, CNC, etc. are used as appropriate. This specific also depends on the complexity of the metal stamping parts.

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