{"id":8891,"date":"2022-09-20T15:06:04","date_gmt":"2022-09-20T19:06:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/moellerpunch.com\/?p=8891"},"modified":"2022-09-20T15:07:05","modified_gmt":"2022-09-20T19:07:05","slug":"ways-to-reduce-precision-tool-wear","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/moellerpunch.com\/ways-to-reduce-precision-tool-wear\/","title":{"rendered":"4 Ways to Reduce Precision Tool Wear","gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"text"}]},"content":{"rendered":"
Tool wear can be detrimental to your metal stamping<\/a><\/strong> process. The faster your tools wear out, the less stocked your tool room is, the more downtime you\u2019ll need to replace them.<\/p>\n Can\u2019t seem to figure out how to reduce the amount of wear put on your tools every day? We have solutions. In this article, we\u2019ll look at the following:<\/p>\n Let\u2019s dive in!<\/p>\n Precision tool wear is the deterioration and weakening performance of tools over time. It\u2019s a nearly inevitable result of consistent stamping operations. During the stamping process, tools are in constant contact with friction, rubbing, cutting, etc. at high impact levels.<\/p>\n There are various factors that can contribute to precision tool wear, such as:<\/p>\n Most precision tool wear is gradual and worsens over time. However, there are some cases of abrupt precision tool wear as well, where a tool fails in an instant. This could be caused by a number of factors.<\/p>\n There are many different types of wear that can affect the durability and performance of your tools. It\u2019s important to understand the types of precision tool wear so that you can do your best to prevent or spot them and resolve the issue quickly.<\/p>\n Here are a few of the most common types of precision tool wear die builders and metal stampers deal with:<\/p>\n Most of the time, precision tool wear is pretty easy to spot. You\u2019ll see chipping, cracking, notching, or any other kind of deformation once it gets big enough.<\/p>\n However, it\u2019s better to be a bit more proactive than that. Consider implementing a regular tool inspection schedule if you haven\u2019t already. This can help you spot even the smallest signs of tool wear before they cause a bigger issue.<\/p>\n If it\u2019s not identified early enough, precision tool wear can lead to all sorts of problems. It can result in increased tonnage, out-of-tolerance holes and components, increased scrap, and extra sorting costs \u2014\u00a0all of which are in your best interest to avoid.<\/p>\n There\u2019s not really a proven way to prevent precision tool wear from happening altogether. But there are a few ways you can reduce it and make your tools last longer. Try some of these.<\/p>\n First things first: make sure you\u2019re working with the right tools for the right tasks. There are hundreds (if not thousands) of tools out there, all in different styles, shapes, sizes, materials, etc. It can be difficult to find the perfect one to accomplish whatever job you\u2019re working on, but it\u2019s an important step in ensuring high-quality results.<\/p>\n Some considerations here? Think about:<\/p>\n If that doesn\u2019t quite lead you to the answer you\u2019re looking for, talk with a trusted die component manufacturer like us at Moeller Precision Tool. We can listen to your needs and steer you in the right direction.<\/p>\n All metals have unique properties, and therefore perform differently in certain situations. Make sure you\u2019re using the right tool material and coating for your application. Here are a few examples:<\/p>\n M2 Standard Punch Material vs. PM4 Advanced Punch Material<\/strong><\/p>\n M2 is the tried-and-true material for standard punching applications. It offers abrasion resistance and can withstand high temperatures without softening. But if you have an advanced stamping application that requires even more durability, PM4 is a better choice. It provides improved wear and impact resistance.<\/p>\n A2 Standard Die Button Material vs. M2 Advanced Die Button Material<\/strong><\/p>\n A2 is the trusted material for standard die button applications. It has a good combination of toughness and wear resistance, especially when shock is an important consideration. However, M2 is a better choice in advanced die button applications because its properties offer even greater wear resistance.<\/p>\n Standard M2 punch and A2 die button specs can be found in our Inch<\/strong><\/a> and Metric<\/a><\/strong> catalogs. Advanced PM4 punch and M2 die button specs can be found in our Advanced Stamping<\/a><\/strong> catalog.<\/p>\n Also, here\u2019s a photo of some of the performance coatings we offer here at Moeller Precision Tool. Choosing the right coating is often just as important as choosing the right material.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Again, we\u2019re happy to help if you need help determining what the best material and coating solution is for you.<\/p>\n The metal stamping process often produces high amounts of energy, friction, and heat \u2014\u00a0sometimes bringing temperatures up to 700\u00b0F. All of these environmental factors, especially heat, can increase the risk of precision tool wear.<\/p>\n Your best bet here is to keep a keen eye on these environmental factors and apply a coolant or lube as necessary. Your choice of material will also impact how well your tools stand up against high temperatures.<\/p>\n There are thousands of tool and die component manufacturers out there, and a lot of them can offer you low costs and quick turnarounds \u2014\u00a0especially if you\u2019re shopping overseas. Even though that seems like the most cost-effective option upfront, it\u2019s probably costing you money in the long run.<\/p>\n Cheaper tools are likely to experience more intense wear, faster. You\u2019ll spend more money (not to mention time and resources) ordering replacements over the years. When you invest in higher-quality tools from reputable manufacturer like Moeller, you can reduce tool wear, reduce downtime, and reduce your overall operating costs.<\/strong><\/p>\n Moeller will also provide better customer service. We\u2019re a great resource to bounce questions off of, direct you to the right component, and connect you with other partners in the industry. Our products and services may not be the cheapest options, but we guarantee that the added value and durability of our tools will pay off in the long run.<\/p>\n Struggling with precision tool wear? Consider investing in higher-quality solutions from Moeller Precision Tool. With a commitment to exceptional quality and uncompromising value, we manufacture our tool and die components to last.<\/p>\n\n
What Is Precision Tool Wear?<\/h2>\n
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Common Types of Precision Tool Wear<\/h2>\n
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How to Identify Precision Tool Wear<\/h2>\n
4 Ways to Reduce Precision Tool Wear<\/h2>\n
1. Use the Appropriate Tool for Your Application<\/h3>\n
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2. Choose the Right Tool Material and Coating<\/h3>\n
3. Understand Environmental Effects on Tools<\/h3>\n
4. Invest in High-Quality Tools From a Trusted Manufacturer Like Moeller<\/h3>\n
Keep Your Tool Room Stocked with Durable Solutions From Moeller Precision Tool<\/h2>\n