Stanzform

Stanzform is a term used in sheet processing and is most commonly translated as stamping die or die-cutting form. It refers to a tool used to cut, shape, or form material by pressing it between a punch and a die. Stanzformen are employed in various industries, including metalworking, packaging, printing, and leather or plastic fabrication, to produce precise shapes, blanks, or finished forms.

A typical Stanzform consists of a punch or set of punches and a matching die mounted in a press on a base or bolster plate. A stripper or wear plate helps remove the finished part and scrap, while guides and backstops ensure accurate positioning of the workpiece. In high-volume production, more complex configurations such as progressive dies or transfer dies may be used to perform multiple operations in one cycle. Materials that can be processed include metal sheets, paper and cardboard, plastics, and textiles, depending on the die design and press force.

Construction and materials: Stanzformen are usually made from hardened tool steels, and sometimes carbide, with sharpened cutting edges and protective coatings. They are designed for precise tolerances to ensure repeatability and part-to-part consistency. Tooling can be custom-made for specific geometries or produced in sets for standard operations.

Applications: In metal stamping, dies perform cutting, blanking, piercing, bending, and forming. In packaging and printing, Stanzformen cut and emboss shapes for boxes, cartons, labels, and decorative elements. In plastics and leather industries, they enable shaping and perforation processes.

Maintenance and safety: Regular inspection for wear, alignment checks, and cleaning are essential. Proper lubrication, correct clearance, and safety measures are required when operating stamping presses.

See also: Die (manufacturing), stamping (manufacturing), die-cutting.