Common Metal Stampings

Also known as pressing, metal stamping is a multistage processing endeavor that the professionals at Phoenix Specialty Manufacturing undertake on a daily basis for many different industries. A stamping press is used to manufacture metal stampings and the process can be done in one swift motion or it can involve multiple individual steps, such as punching, blanking, embossing, flanging, bending, and coining. While the metal stampings we produce vary from industry to industry, there are five metal stampings that are most common.

Steel Metal Stamping

This type of metal stamping is used when corrosion and weight are not an issue, yet strength is required. Because of its strength, availability, and relatively low cost, steel is one of the most common materials for metal stamping. This type of stamping utilizes coil-fed steel and steel blanks for added versatility.

Brass Metal Stamping

Another common type of metal stamping is brass. Often used because of its excellent thermal and electric conducive abilities, brass is a metal alloy made from copper and zinc. Some of the most common ways in which brass metal stamping is used include the following:

• Transmission parts
• Electronic parts
• Jewelry
• Heater components
• Valves
• Locks
• Gears
• Musical instruments
• Household fixtures

Aluminum Metal Stamping

This type of stamping carries with it some amazing benefits, which is why it lands among the top 5 most common metal stampings. The aluminum grades most commonly used for metal stamping are 1100, 2024, 3003, 5052, and 6061. Aluminum is usually chosen for stamping due to the following reasons:

• It is a soft alloy and can be formed easily
• It is lightweight
• It has a high strength to weight ratio
• It is nontoxic
• It is resistant to corrosion
• It is nonmagnetic
• It provides excellent thermal and electrical conductivity

Aluminum can also be strengthened against corrosion by anodizing it, which also gives an added bonus of aesthetic beauty.

Automotive Metal Stamping

Aside from the material specific metal stamping uses, of of the largest users of metal stamping is the automotive industry. From the moment you open the door to your automobile and hop in to buckle your seat belt, you are utilizing metal stamping. The automotive industry is dependent on high-quality metal stamping production for many parts including the following:

• Seat latches
• Fuel injectors
• Coupling joints
• Fuel pressure regulators
• Component assembly
• Much more!

The automotive industry demands strict tolerances, so it is important to contract with a company that can provide the varied stamping that you need for different vehicle parts and types.

Polystyrene Stamping

Okay, this may not be an actual metal stamping, but polystyrene is a material that is commonly used for stamping if you are looking for a nonmetallic material. It is a synthetic aromatic polymer made from monomer styrene which is a liquid petrochemical. It is often used when a stamp or mold contains fine details. While the jury is still out on whether polystyrene is friendly towards the environment, it is an option to consider when you can’t use metal for your stamping needs.