Sheet metal is used in a variety of manufacturing applications. Consisting of large and thin pieces of metal — usually steel,
aluminum, brass, tin or copper — it serves as the foundation for many consumer and commercial products. Some manufacturing companies, however, use multiple pieces of sheet metal for a single application. To secure the pieces of sheet metal together, they typically rely on a manufacturing process known as press joining.
Overview of Press Joining
Also known as clinching, press joining is a metalworking process that involves joining two or more pieces of sheet metal together. It doesn’t use bolts, rivets or other fasteners. Rather, press joining relies on pressure to join multiple pieces of sheet metal together.
Some of the most common applications for press joining include the following:
- Electronic devices
- Electrical connectors
- Auto parts
- Household appliances
- Plumbing parts
How Press Joining Works
Press joining is typically performed at or near room temperature. Although there are multiple ways to perform it, the most common method involves the use of a punch and die set. The pieces of sheet metal are secured to the top of the die, after which a punch is dropped down from above. The pressurized punch forces the pieces of sheet metal to join together.
It’s important to note that press joining doesn’t expose the entire sheet metal to the punch. Rather, the punch “strikes” a specific area. When the punch drops, it creates a natural joint on that area of the sheet metal.
The Benefits of Press Joining
What benefits does press joining offer exactly? For starters, it’s an extremely fast way to join multiple pieces of sheet metal. Most press joining processes can be performed in just under one second. In comparison, other joining processes, such as welding, can take minutes or even hours to complete.
Unlike other joining methods, press joining doesn’t require any adhesives or liquids. It’s a relatively simple process that exclusively uses pressure. Therefore, press joining isn’t only faster than other joining methods; it’s easier and cleaner as well. These are just a few benefits of press joining.
In Conclusion
Press joining is a metalworking process that’s designed to join two or more pieces of sheet metal by force. The only tools required for this process are a die and punch. The pieces of sheet metal are placed on top of the die, after which the press drops down to join them together.