Today we’ll be discussing the use of CNC Turret Punch Presses for the processing of flat blank sheet metal. As their name implies, CNC turret presses consist of a large indexable turret that can hold over 50 different punches and dyes that are computer-controlled to create unique features and shapes. Different shaped tools can be used singularly or in combination with other tools to produce cutouts or to cut out the perimeter of the desired flat blank.
Individual flat blanks can contain single or multiple parts nested together into full 5 foot by 10 foot sheet arrays which allows for more cost-effective processing of higher quantity production runs.
Turret presses are a great compliment to CNC lasers and represent a cost-effective alternative for flat blanks that have high feature density or those with high quantity production requirements.
Unlike lasers, turrets have the ability to create features that are formed into the material (such as counter syncs and counter bores), or features that protrude from the material (such as extrusions, embosses, hinges, or tabs. Incorporating these features into your part design can eliminate the need for costly secondary operations and can potentially represent significant cost savings.
