Improvement of the Method for Fixing a Punch in the Punch Holder

Abstract

The punching process allows large quantities of parts to be produced at very low cost. This paper studies how the technique used for fixing a punch can be improved in order to increase productivity before punch fracture, which results in large numbers of parts failing to be produced, thus creating a significant shortfall. In this context, the study deals with an industrial case, specifically the manufacturing (metal sheeting and metal forming) of a connector made of stainless steel. A broken tool is first analyzed in order to identify the source of the premature breakage. Then, the tool and the process are modeled using finite element analysis (FEA) to act as a reference. Then, the improvements in the geometry and fixing method, intended to increase the tool lifespan, are assessed and modeled using FEA. Finally, the modified profile with only one central hole proves to be very efficient.

Condition Monitoring to Enable Predictive Maintenance on a Six-Die Nut Manufacturing Machine through Force Data Analysis

“…It discovered that the die damage can be controlled by the back-up plate, and die rupture results from the thermo mechanical fatigue at the die head [10]. Another study focused on improving the geometry of moulds to increase their lifespan by using finite element analysis to identify the source of premature breakage in order to modify the die profile to increase productivity [11]. Kuo et al [12] monitored screws to identify defective products by integrating an automated optical inspection unit to check screw dimensions after they were produced.…”