Frame punches are tools used to punch shaped holes in sheet metal, similar to cookie cutters. There are three types: hand, ratchet, and hydraulic. The design consists of a punch, die, and screw. A hole is drilled in the sheet metal, and the punch is pulled through using the screw. The type of punch used determines the maximum size and thickness of the metal.
A frame punch is a tool used to punch shaped holes in sheet metal. In many ways, these hand tools work like a cookie cutter. The tool is placed against the sheet metal and pressure is applied to the sheet. As the pressure increases, the sheet metal deforms until the frame punch removes the metal. There are three basic styles of punches: hand, ratchet and hydraulic. In most cases, each works the same, except for how pressure is applied to the sheet.
The design of a frame punch is quite simple, usually consisting of three parts. The punch creates the actual shape in the sheet metal. These can be of any type, although larger punches require much more force than smaller ones. The die provides a solid surface to push the punch into, ensuring that the pressure is equal across the entire surface of the punch. Finally, a screw holds the two pieces together on both sides of the sheet metal.
Using a frame punch is as simple as the design. First, a hole is drilled in the sheet metal. This hole is usually in the exact center of the punched shape and must be measured precisely to avoid accidents. The die is placed on one side of the sheet and the punch on the other. A screw is threaded through the die, then through the hole in the metal, and then through the punch. As the screw is tightened, the punch is pulled into the sheet and eventually punches a hole.
The three main types of frame punch are multiple variations of separate tools. The simplest type is the hand punch. It works just like described above. A person using the screw provides the power used to pull the punch through the metal. No other factors are involved.
The other two types use add-on systems to aid the operator or amplify turning power. A ratchet frame punch has a special screw head and key specifically designed to work with the punch. The whole system locks in so that the operator can exert the maximum possible force on the screw. A hydraulic punch has a built-in pressure system, so the operator only needs to pull a trigger to apply a very large force.
The tool used is important as the greater the force applied to the screw, the greater the maximum size of the punch. Hand punches have the smallest potential hole size and metal thickness. Ratchet punches are a step up and hydraulic systems can make the punches bigger and use the thicker metal.
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