Precision Metal Stamping Blog

2024 Forecast for Metal Stamping Materials

timl@kenmode.com (Tim Lynch) — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 15:46:32 GMT

The metal stamping industry is a critical component of the manufacturing sector, playing a vital role in producing parts for various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical, and consumer goods. The availability and pricing of raw materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, and specialty alloys significantly impact the industry's operations and profitability. As we move into 2024, several factors will shape the outlook for these raw materials, including economic trends, geopolitical events, technological advancements, and environmental policies.

Rigid Busbars Reign Supreme in EVs

timl@kenmode.com (Tim Lynch) — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 15:00:00 GMT

Busbars: The Lifeline of Electric Vehicles

Before we discuss why rigid busbars are superior to flexible busbars, it's crucial to grasp the fundamental role that busbars play in the operation of electric vehicles (EVs). In the world of EVs, each component is essential for achieving top-notch performance, efficiency, and safety. Among these components, busbars act as the backbone of the electrical system, ensuring seamless power flow between components like the battery pack and motor controller.

These conductive bars are tasked with efficiently transmitting high currents while minimizing voltage drop and impedance. They must also endure the rigors of the automotive environment, including mechanical stresses, temperature changes, and vibrations. Furthermore, busbars play a significant role in managing the vehicle's weight, volume, and thermal performance, making their design and implementation key factors in EV engineering.

The debate between rigid and flexible busbars often arises, sparking the question: which option is superior? In this exploration, we delve into the details of both types, shedding light on why rigid busbars stand out as the optimal choice for driving the future of electric mobility.

The Evolution from NAFTA to USMCA

timl@kenmode.com (Tim Lynch) — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 13:41:00 GMT

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which took effect in 1994, was a landmark trade deal between Canada, Mexico, and the United States. It aimed to eliminate most tariffs on products traded among the three countries, with a focus on liberalizing trade in agriculture, textiles, and automobile manufacturing. NAFTA fundamentally reshaped North American economic relations, driving unprecedented integration between the developed economies of Canada and the United States and Mexico’s developing one.

However, NAFTA faced criticism in the United States for contributing to job losses and outsourcing. President Donald J. Trump referred to it as the “worst trade deal ever made” and renegotiated it as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The USMCA, which entered into force on July 1, 2020, aimed to address some of the perceived shortcomings of NAFTA while preserving the benefits of trilateral trade.

5 Metal Stamping Trends to Watch for in 2023

timl@kenmode.com (Tim Lynch) — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 14:54:37 GMT

Navigating the metal stamping industry can be a challenge - but keeping on top of its advancements is critical for OEM manufacturers. This year, exciting trends and groundbreaking technologies have been emerging as we push forward into 2023. To help you stay informed and one step ahead, here are five trending developments sure to make an impact.

Automated vs Manual Self-Clinching Fastener Insertion

timl@kenmode.com (Tim Lynch) — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 19:09:51 GMT

Technology has become ingrained in our daily lives, making how we live, work and play easier and more enjoyable with each new innovation that emerges. Automation is no exception, as an area of technology that continues to evolve and make our lives exponentially easier. This is evident in our personal lives with automation responsible for things like smart homes, as well as in our professional lives with automation accelerating our work with incredible output. Let’s explore how automation is impacting the metal stamping industry by looking at the process of self-clinching fastener insertion.

Why Copper is Ideal for Industrial Use

timl@kenmode.com (Tim Lynch) — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 14:00:00 GMT

When you think of copper, you may immediately imagine a penny or the Statue of Liberty with its well-known green patina. Copper is far more than a decorative metal, though. Copper, with its reddish-brown color, is an easily recognizable non-ferrous metal. Being non-ferrous makes copper non-magnetic. Copper's properties make it ideal for industrial applications, including metal stamping.

Copper has a variety of desirable mechanical and chemical properties, making it one of the most versatile and extensively used materials. Copper’s properties can be further enhanced through the use of metal alloys making it the ideal choice for a wide range of metal stamping applications.

Deciding if Aluminum is Suitable for a Metal Stamped Part

timl@kenmode.com (Tim Lynch) — Wed, 22 Jun 2022 17:29:57 GMT

Choosing the appropriate metal for your stamped part can be tricky. In some cases, there are parts that could be made from several different materials. It’s important to compare materials to determine how your choice could affect the stamping’s function and performance.

Aluminum is the ideal metal for parts that need strength and flexibility at a much lower weight than most other metals can provide. Aluminum is often chosen over stainless steel since it is less expensive and a third of the weight. With the push for lightweight vehicles, many automotive parts that were traditionally made from steel are now made from aluminum.

Choosing the Right Metal Stamping Material

timl@kenmode.com (Tim Lynch) — Wed, 04 May 2022 13:52:01 GMT

Precision metal stamping is one of the most popular manufacturing processes for various industrial applications because it is quick, accurate, and repeatable as well as being a versatile, cost-effective metal forming process. When creating complex parts through metal stamping, it is imperative to choose the best raw materials for your application.

Copper vs Aluminum Busbars — Which Is Right for Your Project?

timl@kenmode.com (Tim Lynch) — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 16:29:29 GMT

There is some debate regarding which material is better for use for busbars—aluminum or copper. Both materials have been used with success, but which is better? Or is one better than the other? Which is best for your project?

2022 Forecast for Metal Stamping Materials

timl@kenmode.com (Tim Lynch) — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 18:15:52 GMT

The price of nearly every design and construction material or component you can imagine went through increases in 2021. Unfortunately, if you were looking for relief heading into 2022, you won’t find much in the metal stamping material sector.

The prices of metal stamping materials are forecast to rise throughout the new year continuously. There are many forces behind these increases, with no one area responsible for the higher costs. This article will examine the various factors driving these changes, the materials most likely to be affected, and dynamics altering availabilities and lead times.