Blanking is a high-volume cutting process in sheet metal fabrication, shearing shapes from coil or sheet. It underpins brackets, panels, and frames in electronics, appliances, and vehicles. The basics are simple, yet accuracy, edge quality, and die care decide whether parts flow through forming without costly rework.
1. When should you choose blanking over laser cutting?
Blanking wins on speed, repeatability, and per-part cost at volume. It also delivers consistent edges that feed bending cells. Laser excels for prototypes, small batches, and complex outlines. In practice, many sheet metal fabrication teams mix both methods to balance agility with throughput. It also minimises scrap, stabilises talk times, and supports automated downstream handling.
2. How does blanking work?
A punch drives material into a matched die. The sheet first elastically bends, then yields, and finally fractures. This leaves three zones on the cut edge: a smooth shear, a rougher break, and a small burr. Tuning clearance, punch condition, and lubrication reduce burr height and improve dimensional stability across batches.
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How do fabricators control cost and quality?
Well-planned die maintenance curbs scrap and downtime. Checks cover punch wear, guides, and fasteners, and small corrections prevent stoppages. Progressive tools demand staged servicing to keep stations aligned. Tooling life depends on grade and thickness, so schedules reflect reality
Choose partners that publish lists and tolerance data. Clear drawings, bend radii, and cosmetic-face protection reduce risk. With disciplined setups, sheet metal fabrication teams keep parts flowing and projects on time.
