Managing Thermal Expansion Drift in High Speed Stamping Tooling
Active coolant stabilization and pre-heated die sub-plates prevent thermal pitch drift from destroying progressive stamping tool clearances.
High Speed Press Shut Height
Meaning
Measurement of the vertical distance between the slide face and the bolster at the bottom of the stroke defines the space available for tooling. Maintaining a consistent high speed press shut height is necessary for achieving uniform penetration in piercing and forming operations. Any deviation in this distance directly impacts the accuracy of the parts produced during a production run.
High Frequency Stability
Dynamic vibrations and centripetal forces can cause the ram position to shift as the cycle speed increases. Although a static measurement of the high speed press shut height provides a baseline, the actual distance under load often changes due to the elasticity of the press frame. Sensors mounted on the columns track these micron level movements to ensure the process remains stable.
Calibration Setup
Verification of the ram adjustment mechanism allows the operator to set the initial depth of the die. Because the high speed press shut height must be precise to within microns for thin material stamping, the setup includes a period of test strokes to verify the setting. Small adjustments are often made after the press has run enough cycles to reach a consistent operating temperature.
Mechanical Range
Limits of the screw and nut assembly dictate the total amount of movement possible for the ram. If the required high speed press shut height falls outside this window, the tool may require riser blocks or a different press. Most modern systems include a motorized adjustment that can be locked in place to prevent the setting from drifting under the intense forces of the stamping cycle.
This locking mechanism is necessary for maintaining the tool integrity during runs that exceed one hundred thousand cycles. Advanced presses often feature a digital readout that shows the exact position of the ram to the nearest micron.