In stamping operations, it’s essential to prioritize the durability and effectiveness of stamping tools for the success of the manufacturing process. One question that you might ask is: How often should a stamping tool be inspected? The answer, as you might expect, is not a simple one. Stamping tool inspection depends on a variety of factors that influence the wear and tear experienced by the tool over time.

Regular Inspection for Longevity and Efficiency

Stamping tools should undergo regular inspections to ensure they function properly and have a long lifespan. We do tool inspections after each use to detect any potential issues before they escalate into more severe problems that could lead to tool failure or damage to the die. The goal of a tool maintenance program is zero unplanned downtime.

Factors Influencing Service Frequency

There are some tell-tale signs that a stamping tool may need maintenance. These can include burrs on your parts, tolerances going out of spec, increased tonnage or hearing noises from your tool. Several factors contribute to determining how often a stamping tool requires inspection:

    • Tool Material and Component Material: The materials used in the making of the tool, as well as the materials being stamped, play a role in determining the frequency of maintenance. Different materials may exert varying levels of stress on the tool, impacting its wear and tear.
    • Production Volume: The number of parts produced by the tool is another critical factor. Tools that produce a high volume of parts are subject to more wear and tear and may require more frequent inspection compared to those with lower production volumes.
    • Age of the Tool: Older tools may require more frequent servicing due to the natural degradation of components over time. Regular maintenance and repair become increasingly important as a tool ages to ensure continued functionality.
    • Occurrence of Burrs: Burrs and projections on stamped parts can indicate wear or damage to the tool. Monitoring the occurrence of burrs can help determine when inspection is necessary to maintain part quality and prolong tool life.

Individualized Approach to Stamping Tool Inspection

The frequency of inspection is ultimately an individual decision for each stamping tool, taking into account the unique circumstances and requirements of its operation. At Stansomatic, we adhere to a rule of inspecting after every production run. Let’s consider a couple of examples to illustrate how inspection frequency can vary based on specific factors:

    • Example 1: We have a tool built in 2001 that has produced over 150 million parts and is still running smoothly thanks to planned service and repairs. This tool undergoes inspection after every production run or after 500,000 strokes.
    • Example 2: A stamping tool for the medical industry may require daily inspection due to the high volume of parts it produces and the critical nature of its operation. Regular inspection intervals, such as after every 60,000 hits, help ensure optimal performance and reliability for tools with very tight tolerances.

In conclusion, the frequency of inspection for stamping tools varies based on a combination of factors such as material, production volume, age, wear and tear and specific operational requirements. By conducting regular inspections and adopting a proactive approach to maintenance, we can maximize the longevity and efficiency of your stamping tools, ultimately enhancing overall productivity and quality.

At Stansomatic, we welcome challenges!

Partnering with Stansomatic ensures the highest level of quality and process reliability through regular in-house die maintenance and part inspection. Our toolmakers oversee the continued maintenance, care and repair of your stamping tool to prevent these conditions from impacting manufacturing operations.