Commonly-Used Metals In Metal Stamping

Metal stamping is a complex manufacturing process where a number of metal forming techniques like punching, blanking, piercing, bending to form specific shapes out of flat metal sheets.

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Different metals can be used in the metal stamping process. However, the multitude of metal choices make it hard for manufacturers to decide which is the better option for their product. There are a few raw material properties that can affect your metal products’ performance and thereby your choice.

• Corrosion resistance
• Ductility
• Machinability
• Tensile strength
• Weldability

While selecting metals, make sure you consider the properties that are stated above to help you decide which is the best metal for your final product.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a soft, lightweight alloy that is easily malleable. It has a high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. It is non-toxic, non-magnetic, and provides excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. Aluminum metal can further be strengthened against corrosion by anodizing, which also improves its aesthetic.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is an alloy with high chromium levels, over 10.5% chromium by weight to be precise and other elements. Stainless steel has good formability, high tensile strength, durability, corrosion resistance, and a wide conductive range. It also has a low cost.

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is available in flat sheets and coils. Its metal composition differs from stainless steel as it contains 2.1% carbon by weight. It also has a lower ductility and offers less corrosion resistance. Carbon steel is low cost, has high tensile strength and durability with proper maintenance, and can be soldered.

Copper

Copper offers superior conductivity and excellent corrosion resistance from various sources, including acids, atmospheric oxidation, water, and alkaline and neutral solutions.

Brass

Brass is mostly used for decorative items, consumer goods, and electrical applications that don’t need pure copper. Brass offers corrosion resistance against water, organic compounds, neutral and alkaline saline solutions, and chemicals. Brass is hard yet malleable and has an appealing color and finish.

Non-ferrous metals

Non-ferrous metals are metals and alloys like copper, aluminum, lead, tin, zinc, gold, and silver. Non-ferrous materials are very malleable. Since non-ferrous metals do not contain iron, they never rust, even when exposed to different weather conditions. They are also corrosion-resistant, non-magnetic, offer electrical conductivity, and weigh less than ferrous metals.

Non-ferrous metals are used to make automobile parts, electrical wiring and circuitry, jewelry, and components for the aerospace industry. Generally, non-ferrous metals cost more than metals containing iron. Also, while non-ferrous metals are lightweight, they lack tensile strength.

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