A CNC punch press is a machine that uses computer programs to form or die-cut shapes from thin stock material. It consists of a motorized press turret, a worktable that moves in two dimensions, and a set of controls. The process involves moving the workpiece into position and instructing the die to form or cut out the desired shape. The CNC punch press is cost-effective and can punch more complex shapes than other types of press.
A CNC punch press is an automated manufacturing machine used to form or die-cut predetermined shapes from thin stock material. CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control and refers to the computer programs that control the operating cycles of the machine. Most CNC punch presses are turret machines that consist of three basic assemblies: a motorized press turret, a main worktable that moves in two dimensions, and a set of controls that include the computer station. The process of punching material involves a workpiece, usually a thin sheet metal, being moved into position under the press die along an X and Y axis by the computer program. When the work piece is in place, the program instructs the die to move down and form or cut out the desired shape, then move back to repeat the cycle.
Motorized punch presses are large machines typically used in industrial settings to press shapes or cut out often complex shapes from thin stock. The CNC punch press is one such machine that is controlled by a computer with very little operator input during the punching cycle. These machines are usually of a turret design that features a hydraulically operated piston and die set housed in an enclosed turret. A mobile table or bed is located in front of and partially below the turret. This bed can move to feed workpieces along two axial planes, X and Y, or, in other words, back and forth and sideways.
Both the bed and die of the CNC punch press are controlled by a central computer which translates a preloaded program into a series of sequential operations for both the die and workbench. In this way, the machine will automatically advance the workpiece through a predetermined pattern of punching cycles. This automated operation is generally extremely accurate and fast, with typical punching cycles measured in milliseconds allowing for very good production speeds and high levels of accuracy. CNC punching is also cost-effective, as the program can minimize the amount of scrap or waste generated from any part.
The CNC punching cycle consists of two basic parts: positioning the part and the actual punching cycle. Positioning places the part exactly under the die, and the punch cycle moves the die down to cut or form the production part. Once the cut or punch has been made, the die is raised, the part is repositioned, and the cycle is repeated. When the clippings are punched out, any waste produced falls into a collection bin for recycling. Not only does a CNC punch press allow for high production speeds and exceptional accuracy, but it can also generally punch more complex shapes than other types of press.
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