Sheet Metal Stamping Fabrication

Sheet Metal Stamping Fabrication refers to the bending and shaping processes of Sheet Metal Stamping techniques. Sheet Metal Stampings can be given all sorts of complex hollow shapes and sections, and the equipment used for these processes, range from simple hand tools, to sophisticated power-operated automatic machinery.

Sheet Metal Stamping work usually starts with a preliminary operation such as cutting, perforating or slitting etc. with tools that exercise some type of shearing action. These may be simple hand scissor like cutting tools, or power operated bench shears for heavier gauge materials. There are several kinds of power-driven shearing machines, and such machines comprises of a fixed blade and a moveable blade. The process of 'punching' refers to operations carried out with the use of a punching machine (or press) and this means to pierce a hole in the metal article, with the appropriate tool fitted in the machine, and clipping (the removal of surplus metal).

Another type of Sheet Metal Stamping fabrication is shaping. A wide range of shaping operations known as folding or bending, are done on presses and similar machines, as well as operations such as

Grooving

Seaming Stamping

Crimping & Beading

These processes are used for the stiffening and shaping of Sheet Metal Stampings, the forming of tubular sections for circular shapes, and other numerous purposes.

Angles and sections can be formed by bending or folding. Coiling is the process of coiling over the edge of a Sheet Metal Stamping component, to increase the strength and provide a suitable edge, and is applied by a rolling or coiling tool on a press. Circular or cylindrical shapes such as tubes are performed and produced on a roll-forming machine. Press forming operations can include

Cupping

Embossing

Cupping refers to the conversion of a blank into cup form. Embossing refers to a particular design applied for strengthening purposes, and can be produced on a partly finished component. Cupping is usually the first stage in an operation known as forming, in which the appropriate tool is used to give the article its final shape. Seaming is generally used for joining Sheet Metal Stamping parts and is for example, often used for joints in metal roofing. Flanging is the process of forming a flange on a Sheet Metal Stamping component. Beading is the process of making depressions for the purpose of embellishment or stiffening, etc, and it may be done by the use of suitable or specifically shaped rollers. There are many other techniques used in Sheet Metal Stamping fabrication and some of these can include:

Deep Drawing

Marforming

Flow Forming

Spinning

With the advancement of today's technology, many of these techniques are now applied with the use of computer controlled machinery.

Metal fabrication is a process of producing a metal component by modifying a raw piece of material in a machine shop. These materials are processed on different temperatures and depending on the range of temperatures; the process is classified as cold, warm and hot. Precision Sheet Metal Stamping fabrication describes various different processes that form Sheet Metal Stamping into finished products. Objects that are fabricated and used for machinery and other instruments are among the daily used objects like paper clips, computers, bolts, nails, automotive parts and many more.

There are various factors like rate of production, desired geometry, and other physical requirements that influence the fabrication process. The benefits of the metal fabrication process are far and wide because it is used by all industries. Every precision Sheet Metal Stamping fabrication process undergoes three primary processes that include forming, cutting and finishing. Forming is a process that alters the form of the flat metal sheet.

Sheet Metal Stamping Tools

Sheet Metal Stamping is nothing but a metal rotated into a sheet having a thickness between the plate and the foil. It is one of the basic forms utilized in metal working and it can be bent and cut into different shapes. The thickness of this material varies from thin foil to thick plate. They are obtainable as coiled strip or as flat pieces. Coiled strips are nothing but the continuous running of the sheet.

Different metals like brass, titanium, and aluminum, and copper, nickel, tin and steel are converted into sheets of metal. Sometimes, even precious metals like platinum, gold and silver are converted into Sheet Metal Stampings for decorative purposes. Every day different objects like car bodies, wings of airplane, building roofs, medical tables and tools are manufactured with the help of sheets of metal. The tools used for cutting the Sheet Metal Stamping differ according to the purpose for which the sheets of metal is going to be used.

Different tools like metal rollers, tip snips, etc. are being used to cut the Sheet Metal Stamping. The difficulty level in using Sheet Metal Stamping tools can be hard or easy; this depends on the tools being used. For instance, for the process of deep drawing, metal rollers can be used and thick sheets can be bent by using a tool called press-brake.

For the purpose of stamping designs and images in the Sheet Metal Stamping a tool called machine or stamping press is being used. Thus, each tool makes its own effect on the metal. The most important benefit of using these tools is that a tool available for one purpose need not be used for some other purpose. For instance for deep drawing of sheets of metal, the tool called rollers would be the best option, instead if the tool called press-brake is used for this purpose the desired result cannot be attained. So different tools can be used for different purpose, this helps the technician to shape the metal according to his desire.

Sheets of metal tools are used for different purposes like wheeling, deep drawing, ironing, cutting, bending, perforating, stamping, spinning, rolling, press-brake forming, roll forming, etc.

Sheet Metal Stamping tools must be used with utmost care. It is better to use the Sheet Metal Stamping tools only after getting training in using them. If an inexperienced person uses the tools he may get some injuries and it is also safe to keep the sheet tools out of the reach of the children.

Sheet Metal Stamping Tools are very helpful when trying to fix things around the house that involve metal plating, sheeting or otherwise. They might even be useful when fixing your car ports as they sometimes get dents from other vehicles or your own.

Automotive Muffler Parts Production by Metal Stamping

The private car has been a crown jewel of public consumption over the past hundred years since the notorious Henry Ford got wealthy from the Model "T" that gave people freedom of movement. In turn, a metal stamping factory turns the aluminum and steel into the necessary parts for the muffler factory.

In the last half of the 20th century and in the first decade of the 21st century the auto industry grew to be 10% of North America and Europe's GDP, employing around 9 million people directly and five times that total in associated sectors. That means that 5% of the working population are employed by automotive companies and almost everybody is affected by the automobile in one way or another.

One part of a car wears out quickly and needs replacement on a regular basis is the muffler. The one that came with the car is long forgotten, now just part of a garbage mountain of fellow rusty mufflers on the outside of town. The automotive giant doesn't make these directly but contracts from other manufacturers for a supply.

The die that produces a flat piece of metal and cuts the outer contours in one operation is known as a blanking die. In the case of muffler parts, sheet metal would be formed using a die that consists of the punch, which performs the blanking operation while the other part, known as the die block clamps the work piece securely for accuracy. Lubricants are used to reduce friction between the working material and the punch and die. They also aid in removing the part from the punch. Some examples of lubricants used in drawing operations are heavy-duty emulsions, phosphates, white lead, and wax films.

Punches and dies are typically made of tool steel, however carbon steel is cheaper, but not as hard and is therefore used in less severe applications, it is also common to see cemented carbides used where high wear and abrasive resistance is present. Alloy steels are normally used for the ejector system to kick the part out and into durable and heat resistant blank holders. When the parts to be made are of unusually deep dimensions, special dies and casts are used in a procedure known as "deep drawing". An example of this would be the shape of a deep-fryer in a restaurant where stainless steel or aluminum is formed deeper than it is wide to insert the basket of french fries into the oil.

Car mufflers are specially shaped with in inlet and an outlet with perforated tubes inside leading to a measured resonator chamber where sound waves are lined up in order to interfere with or cancel each other out. Without them, car engines would make an unbearable noise - the sound waves would go higher in frequency as the car goes faster. The roads would be chaos, as the engines would sound like thousands of "choppers" - motorcycles with mufflers removed to draw attention to the manliness of the rider through noise pollution.

The metals are formed into the various parts through the process of metal stamping whereby coil, bar, or sheet metal working materials undergo die forming to shape the part. A die is a specialized tool that is used to press the material into the desired shapes.

Air duct made from sheet metal stamping

A sheet metal stamping forming an air duct for use in heating and cooling systems and the like. The stamping has a generally rectangular shaped body portion and a protruding tongue portion extending from at least one side thereof. The stamping is foldable along its end edges and the tongue portion whereby two such stampings may be cooperatively engageable with a pair of side panels to form an air duct section having an inlet, outlet and a diverter or secondary outlet formed by the tongue portions. The tongue portions are adapted for connection to standard conventional take-off fittings.

Sheet metal duct section having an inlet and outlet comprising in combination:a prestamped upper and lower spaced panel interconnected by spaced side panels, at least one side panel being shorter in length than said upper and lower panels and defining an opening through which at least a portion of flow through said inlet isdiverted, said upper and lower panels having end edges and a central body portion extending the length and width of said duct section from said inlet to said outlet and formed tongue portions extending laterally beyond said shortened side, said stampingsbeing folded along their end edges and cooperatively engaged with said side panels to form the air duct section, and said tongue portions cooperatively forming a diverter outlet to divert flow through said inlet from said outlet, said duct having adiminishing cross section from said inlet to said outlet.

The prior art has recognized the advantages of a main conduit or trunk duct having reductions in cross sectional area along its length to provide generally equal air flow at each outlet. Such systems are however, relatively expensive andaccordingly have not found commercial acceptance. Partially prefabricated air duct fittings have been proposed for use in heating and ventilating systems, however, in each case a great number of separate component parts are required including top andbottom panels, take-off sections, side panels and the like. In some of prior art systems the top and bottom panels and the side walls are provided with spaced longitudinally extending marginal tabs and corresponding slots. The tabs, when inserted inthe slots are bent over to secure the plate and wall together in a rigid assembly. Such systems, however, require careful handling since the tabs are easily deformed during such handling. Additionally, if an ar tight seal is required, the tabs and slotmust be sealed with putty, or similar sealing substances.

In another system known in the prior art, prefabricated assembled components of the duct system are provided. Each component is reduced in cross sectional size from the previous adjacent component whereby they may be nested for shipment andstorage. In the above systems, however, separate provision must be made for the connection of take-off ducts and other fittings to registers or wall stacks or the like. In these cases either elaborate tab and slot combinations must be prefabricated orotherwise provided or in the case of the nestable preassembly an opening must be cut in the duct work in each position where it is desired to connect the take-off section.

While the above described systems are known in the art, it yet remains necessary to provide a totally standardized system which is readily assembled, relatively inexpensive and which utilizes standardized parts. The system of the presentinvention is designed for the least restriction of air from the heating or cooling system through the main ducts and into the take-off or leader pipes. A generally standard shaped fitting based on a modular construction concept is provided having astandard length and a variable width based on a preestablished range of sizes. A single fitting which provides top and bottom plates of a duct system is adapted for utilization with side panels and includes at least one outwardly extending tongue memberthereon forming a diverter or take-off section on which any of a large number of standard take-off fittings may be attached. Since the system is based on a standard length for each preformed fitting, layout is considerably simplified, and in fact quickand relatively accurate calculations to determine the total length of the system may readily be made simply by counting as for example, in a residential building, the number of floor joists to lay out the entire system. In the preferred embodiment ofthe invention, each panel section is fabricated from a stamping and has a lip or other fastening means formed at the ends and edges thereof. Each section has a standard length of 16 inches or multiples thereof which correspond to the conventionalspacing between floor joists.

The standardized system of the present invention is applicable to generally all heating installations and specifically adapted for home heating situations. The expense of custom-made installations is reduced. Each section formed in accordancewith the present invention has an inlet side and a diminished outlet side thereby providing, when assembled, a heating system in which the main trunk line is decreased at each take-off junction to thus proportion and reduce the cross sectional area ofthe main trunk line along its length.

Basically, the invention provides a sheet metal duct section having an inlet and an outlet and includes prestamped upper and lower spaced panels interconnected by spaced side panels. At least one side panel is shorter in length than the upperand lower panels thereby defining an opening through which at least a portion of the flow of air through the inlet portion is diverted. The upper and lower panels are prestamped and have a central body portion extending the length and width of the ductfrom the inlet to the outlet and a tongue portion is formed thereon extending laterally beyond the shortened side. The tongue portion is folded for connection to a diverter or take-off duct section. Finally, a secondary side panel joins the tongueportions to form the diverter duct.

The many advantages of the present metal stamping invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating the preferred embodiment of the invention.

Reconfigurable variable blank-holder force system and method for sheet metal stamping

A reconfigurable variable blank-holder force system (and method) for producing sheet metal stamping comprises a portable hydraulic unit, controlled by a digital control system and a knowledge-based expert system to enable reconfigurability and an easy transition from the try-out stage to production.

The knowledge-base has a hierarchical structure and includes stored information about part geometry, material properties and press parameters. The expert system enables an operator to determine optimal blank-holder forces, and to fine-tune through a graphical interface unit. The optimal blank-holder forces are generated by hydraulic force actuators, using a controller running a nonlinear algorithm that accounts for valve nonlinearities, variable flow-rate and numbers of operational cylinders.

The portable hydraulic unit preferably comprises hydraulic cylinders with quick disconnect hoses, a manifold, servo-valves and a pump unit. A structured method to utilize this system to produce sheet metal stampings is also described. An article embodying the method is included.

Method of achieving reconfigurability in a blank-holder variable force system for producing stampings from sheet metal blanks, comprising: using movableblank-holder force actuators and variable blank-holder forces to hold and support said sheet metal blank at a first set of blank-holder force actuator locations; monitoring a first set of parameters selectively including punch force, blank-holder forceactuator numbers and locations, and blank-holder force magnitudes at said movable blank-holder force actuators; inspecting a sheet metal stamping work piece produced using said first set of parameters; noting differences between characteristics of asample work piece fabricated using said first set of parameters, and requirements of an acceptable sheet metal stamping work piece; and, using said differences and knowledge-based inputs from an expert system to arrive at a second set of newreconfigurable parameters.

A variable blank-holder force system for performing sheet metal stamping operations, comprising: movable blank-holder force actuators to hold and support said sheet metal stamping at a first set of locations; sensors associated with saidmovable blank-holder force actuators for monitoring parameters associated with the blank-holder force actuators including blank-holder force actuator locations and force magnitudes at the blank-holder force actuator locations; a user interface forviewing and using a first set of parameters for a trial run and for recording differences between a stamped sheet metal from a trial run compared with requirements in an acceptable stamped sheet metal work piece; and, a controllable arrangement forarriving at a second set of parameters based on said differences, knowledge-based software controlled by an expert system and knowledge-based hierarchy.

Sheet metal stamping is an indispensable and significant process because it is well suited to mass production of a wide variety of parts. In the automotive industry, it is used to make several body parts such as doors, hoods and lift-gates. Several other industries such as the consumer appliance industry and the aerospace industry use sheet metal stamping extensively. It is highly desirable to ensure high quality standards for sheet metal stampings so as to avoid problems during subsequentassembly stages and to ensure that the form and finish meet requirements.

A publication by Ananthakrishnan S., Agrawal S., Venugopal R., and Demeri M., entitled "RCS Based Hardware-in-the-loop Intelligent System Design and Performance Measurement," inProceedings of PerMIS 2002, NIST, Gaithersburg, Md., 2002, teaches design of an intelligent system with applications to manufacturing, based on a Real Time Control System (RCS) architecture. The Ananthakrishnan publication describes case studies on howthe RCS architecture can be used in a flexible automation scenario, where traditional industrial control cards (hardware) do not provide adequate measures of performance.

In addition, certain tooling concepts and blank-holder force actuator controlunits with individually controlled hydraulic cylinders have been developed to allow local control of metal flow into the die cavity during a stamping operation. Forces are applied on the sheet metal blank using hydraulic cylinders which are mounted onthe lower bolster of a hydraulic press.

In the known type of hydraulic or mechanical press, a ram depresses the piston of each of the hydraulic cylinders via the blank and tooling in a blank-holder force actuator area to raise the pressure inside thecylinders. The pressure is transferred to the blank. A closed-loop control system modulates the flow of hydraulic fluid from the cylinder. In known arrangements, pressure within the cylinder is difficult to control using commercially available PID(Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control cards.

The few systems that are available presently are systems of hydraulic cylinders installed in the bed of the press (under the die). The hydraulic cylinders used to provide force actuation in knownsystems are placed in fixed locations in the bed of one particular press, and the force actuators are configured for operation in that press. In essence, these systems are not flexible and are customized for one particular press and thus tend to be veryexpensive.

The production of sheet metal stamping parts involves two distinct phases, namely, try-out and production. In the try-out phase, the die design is validated, and required process parameters (blank-holder force actuator forces, punch force etc.)are determined. Try-out is conducted by attempting to make the part and modifying the die and process parameters, until a part is consistently made within the required design tolerances. After successful try-out, the final die design and processparameters are transferred to a production unit that mass produces the part. In practice, try-out and production are typically conducted by different companies in different locations.

It is desirable to provide a system and method for sheet metal stamping that would offer reconfigurability utilizing a knowledge-base, as well as the most economy and flexibility in design, and in doing so, address the needs of both try-out andproduction.

Clean out your shower drain without chemicals

The bathroom smells like a dead rat. You know it's the shower drain telling you it needs to be cleaned out again. Don't go for the caustic, harsh chemicals! Go green, instead.

The smell is absolutely nasty. An accumulation of rotting hair and grease from soap can clog up your drain and emit a putrid, rotten egg odor into the room. Don't call a costly plumber. Most likely, you can clean out that shower drain yourself…and WITHOUT chemicals.

Why go green

The fumes from chemical drain cleaners are toxic and harmful to children, pets and adults. They're not good for the environment, either. In addition, the chemicals can damage metal pipes. If this isn't enough, the high price of these cleaning products should also be considered.

How to clean out the shower drain

Warning: This is NOT a job you want to do in your best clothes or on a queasy stomach! Have the following supplies handy:

Metal coal hanger

Plastic grocery bag (without holes)

Rubber gloves

3/4 cup baking soda

1/2 cup of white distilled vinegar

A large, old rag

A pot of boiling water

1.Remove the shower drain cover, being careful not to drop any screws down the drain. Using rubber gloves, clean the drain cover of any accumulated hair.

2.Bend a metal coat hanger so that the hanger portion forms a hook. Use this to fish out any clumps of slimy hair that might be clogging the shower drain. Have an old plastic grocery bag handy to catch the mess. Quickly tie the bag shut to contain the odor.

3.Have the baking soda, vinegar and rag ready at hand.

4.Pour the baking soda down the shower drain.

5.Pour the vinegar down the drain right after.

6.Immediately plug the shower drain with the rag. The baking soda and vinegar will react together to form a bubbling brew that the rag will help contain.

7.Wait twenty minutes. Use this time to bring a pot of water to a boil.

8.Remove the rag and slowly pour all the boiling water down the drain.

9.Run clear water from the shower to test if the drain is running clear. If not, repeat the process.

10.Open the window and air out your bathroom.

11.You may need to repeat the process the next day if the odor persists.

If this attempt to clean out the shower drain has failed and the odor still fills the room, the clog may be further down the pipe requiring the use of a sewer snake. If this totally grosses you out, it might be time to call in the plumber. This "Go green" method of cleaning out the shower drain, however, usually does the trick, so it's worth a try.

Metal Stamping Materials and Processes

Little is known about this process, what type of machinery it uses or how it benefits our lives. The truth is simple. The process of metal stamping and the products it produces are virtually unlimited. Today, this process helps your car operate, medical equipment function and supplements other key components of our daily life.

Metal stamping operations utilize leading precision stamping presses including Bruderer, Kyori, Ingyu, and Minster with sizes ranging from 5 tons - 220 tons. Materials used in the process include Beryllium Copper, Phosphorous Bronze, Stainless Steel & Copper and Cold Rolled Steel with thickness ranging from 0.002" to 0.180". As a result, manufacturers have the capability to provide services and products for a wide variety of industries.

The Metal Stamping Process is put to use for a number if industries, including:

* Automotive parts stamping

* Medical stamping

* Stamping for mobile devices

* Stamped and drawn shields for industrial and electronics industries

* Bandolier

* Bandolier wire

* Header pins

* Contact pins

* Terminals

* Sleeved terminals

* Reel to reel

* Precision miniature stamping

* High speed

* Micro

* Stainless steel

* Medical Stamping

In addition, several types of metals are used in the process, including:

* Aluminum

* Beryllium

* Brass

* Bronze

* Cold Rolled Steel

* Copper

* Mylar

* Phenolic

* Stainless Steel

* Teflon

* Titanium and more!

The process of bandoliering involves the use of a delivery member (a "band", or "carrier") that conveys components from one point to another. In the precision metal stamping arena, bandoliering has been used extensively for manufacturing components such as pins assembled into electronic connectors. Bandoliered components are formed by a special type of precision metal stamping die (referred to as a progressive bandolier die), which is operated in a mechanical press (typically 60 ton, or greater). Raw material in the form of wire (ferrous or nonferrous) is fed into the die to be formed (stamped) into the final desired component, and raw material in the form of strip is introduced into the die to be formed into the bandolier to carry the final component. This article expounds on the use of the bandoliering technique for manufacturing various types of precision metal components. Specifically, the following will be discussed: (1) the benefits of bandoliered components, (2) examples of various applications that can employ bandoliering, and (3) various manufacturing options that can be incorporated into this process.

First, the benefits of producing a precision metal component in a bandoliered configuration (mainly for high volume applications) are threefold: (a) reduced unit cost, (b) repeatable quality, and (c) in-line post-processing. Unit cost can be reduced due to the fact that the stamping operation is performed in a progressive precision metal stamping die, and also because of the fact that the bandoliering process allows for time-saving secondary operations (such as assembly), which reduce overall unit cost. Quality is inherently repeatable in a progressive stamping die. The most significant benefit of the bandoliering process is related to the fact that the stamped components all exit the die in an "ordered" configuration, ready for an assembly process (either manual or automated) or for other secondary operations while still on the band (carrier). Related to this benefit is the fact that this process also lends itself to other manufacturing operations that can be performed inside the die (discussed later).

Second, the types of applications for which bandoliering may be employed are numerous. The following are examples of various industries that could employ this process: Medical devices (e.g., surgical components), Orthopedic components (e.g., pins), Electronic connectors (e.g., connector pins), Military components, as well as many other industries/applications.

Lastly, a bandoliered process can provide for various manufacturing operations to be performed either inside the precision metal stamping die, or outside of the stamping die (while the components are still located on the bandolier). Some examples of in-die operations that can be performed include: coining, sharpening, machining, assembly, and welding. Examples of secondary operations performed outside of the die (while the precision formed components are still on the band) include: cleaning, coating, heat-treating, and automated assembly.

High volume applications for stamped metal components should be evaluated to see if a bandoliered application could be used, especially if the need is present for secondary operations such as assembly, or other operations as discussed above.

The parts manufactured during the metal stamping process vary from tiny parts in material as thin as .05mm to larger frames and heavy duty metal components. Precision presses vary in size from 5 tons to 220 tons, and with speeds up to 1,500 per minute. Stamping services also have skiving equipment to contour metal thickness and configuration as required.

The Ultimate Shower Drain Clog Remover

Long hair and shower drain do not mix well. I found this out the hard way. I have long hair and enjoy long showers; therefore, I found myself purchasing a bottle of drain de-clogger at least once a month or so. I tried liquids, gels, foams, every product and brand available, it seemed. Nothing worked for long, even those most expensive products with MAXIMUM STRENGTH or PROFESSIONAL FORMULA splashed across the label on the bottle.

I'd find myself showering in ankle-deep water after just a few minutes under the spray. Finally, I spotted a product called the Zip-It Strip at my local hardware store. Desperate for anything to help me solve this recurring and most annoying problem, I decided to give it a try.

The Zip-It Strip is a flexible, flattened piece of coated plastic, about eighteen inches long and about the width of a small pencil. It has a loop at one end to use as a handle and serrated teeth all along the shaft that point upward toward the handle. Following the directions on the package, I held the loop and slowly inserted the other end into my clogged drain as far as I could. I wiggled it briefly, and then began to pull it back up slowly and carefully.

A few months ago, I received the Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner, complete with shower caddy, from a marketing company to test. I practically ran to my shower to install it since cleaning the shower ranks up there with cleaning the toilet for me. I must confess, June Cleaver keeps a better house than I ever could. The idea of a set it and forget it mentality really appealed to me. Who doesn't want to save time cleaning? The instructions were very simple: push the button after your shower, pull the curtain shut, and let the Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner do all of the work for you. A housewife's dream come true!

The dream come true turned out to be dream gone bust. The Automatic Shower cleaner did not work as promised. Instead, it left a gritty, white residue on my shower walls, not to mention my shampoo bottles! Upon a cursory glance, the shower appeared clean with no sign of mold or rust stains. The white, gritty residue was not noticeable on the white walls unless you inspected closely and actually did a touch test. Unfortunately, the residue also adhered to the metal spigot and drain, leaving unsightly water marks. While I did save time "cleaning" my shower, it really wasn't clean.

I decided to try Mean Green Bath, Tub & Tile Cleaner to see if it would be able to remove Shower Cleaner build up and return my shower to the smooth finish that it had before I began using the Scrubbing Bubbles product. The product instructions directed me to spray the shower, let it sit and work for 3 minutes, and then wipe it off. I sprayed my entire shower, fixtures and all, and waited three minutes before returning to clean it with a damp cloth.

The serrated teeth did their job well, and out came a hamster-sized wad of hair and slimy gunk! I threw the mess in the waste can and re-inserted the tool in my drain. This time the mess that came out was considerably smaller and less slimy. After three insertions, no more hair came out of the drain. Cleanup was very easy; I just squirted a little bit of liquid soap on the strip and held it under running hot water until all traces of gunk were gone.

Since then, I have had NO more problems with the shower drain clogging! I use the Zip-It Strip once every six weeks or so in my shower and sink as preventative maintenance, and I have never had another clogged drain. This handy little gizmo that cost less than the price of one bottle of drain cleaner (it was only $2.49!) has completely solved my problem. Storing it can be something of a minor challenge, since it is too long for most bathroom drawers. I have mine hanging on a hook inside the linen closet door. It is an indispensable tool that no household should be without!

Floor and Shower Drains

We all know that any type of shower drain can get clogged, some more easily than others. Even though they are designed to withstand quite a good amount of abuse, floor and shower drains are, nevertheless, common candidates for clogging problems. Hair and other shower by-products easily get caught in subsurface pipes. Floor drains are prevalent in laundry rooms, garages, and basements where they are frequent receptacles for wastewater from washing machines, air conditioners, and water heaters. These drains are necessary, the waste has to leave your house some way, but when a clog occurs they are also some of the hardest drains to clear.

Shower Drains

Interestingly enough, the first thing you should try when unclogging your shower drain is pouring a hair removal product, Nair, for example, down the drain. Chances are hair is the reason for your clog and there's a good chance this will work. If it becomes a recurring problem, you may need a better shower drain cover to catch more of the hair before it enters your drain. If you don't have a hair removal product in your home, baking soda and vinegar can also work.

If this doesn't work, you may have a more extensive problem. You may need to call a plumber if you don't have the expertise to disassemble the drain. When you take this recourse, you should ask the plumber about the general condition of the shower drain, not just the clog. Newer drain assemblies use a bondable waterproof membrane that can protect your mortar bed from becoming saturated.

Floor Drains

Floor drains are a different matter altogether. More than just wastewater, lint, sand, and grime can crystallize in your drain causing a real clogging nightmare. When this happens you're way beyond hair removal products and will probably need to either call a plumber or rent a power auger. This machine uses cutting blades to cut through the clog. If you have a drain basin with a clean out plug, you'll be able to circumvent the drain trap and enter directly into the pipe. Otherwise, you'll have to snake the drain through the drain assembly, which increases the difficulty in reaching the clog. Once you reach the clog, the blades are designed to alternate directions as you move back and forth through the clog.

Floor drains are unique in that they are often designed to allow a certain amount of overflow. High amounts of pressure can be created in many floor drains. A standpipe holds back some of the wastewater causing the drain to overflow. This keeps the pipes and drain assembly from breaking. If you think your drain is accepting high levels of wastewater, this can be a bigger issue than a clog. You might consider talking to a plumber about any possible risks associated with your drain assembly.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, a shower drain assembly is provided for use with a shower base having a drain opening. The drain assembly includes a drain fitting, an annular pressure plate, and an annular collar. The drain fitting has an upper lateral flange and an upright cylindrical portion extending downward from the underside of the flange. The cylindrical portion includes a number of rigid shelves extending laterally thereabout, with upright spaces being available between shelves.

The annular collar has an inner diameter with a number of ribs extending laterally inward from the inner diameter surface. The collar also includes a number of holes adapted to engage fasteners. During use, the drain fitting is inserted downward through the drain hole and is stopped by the flange. The pressure plate and collar are slipped upward around the drain fitting cylindrical portion, with the ribs passing through the cylindrical portion spaces. The collar is rotated so that the bottom of the ribs rest against the surface of the shelves. The fasteners are inserted into the holes and made to create an upward force on the pressure plate and a downward force on the collar. The collar ribs engage the shelves, thereby pulling the fitting downward.

In accordance with still other aspects of this invention, an improvement to a shower drain fitting having an upper lateral flange and an cylindrical portion extending downward from the underside of the flange is provided. The improvement includes a number of channels formed in the cylindrical portion exterior surfaces the channels being formed as upside down "J" shapes. The improvement further includes an annular collar having an inner diameter with a number of ribs extending laterally inward from the inner diameter surface. The collar includes a number of holes, each being adapted to engage a fastener. During use, the collar is placed about the cylindrical portion with the collar ribs being engaged in the channels.

Metal Stamping Quality Control

Metal stamping is a form of metalworking that is completed using various levels of difficulty. Almost anyone can form their own jewelry, flowers, numbers and letters out of metal using metal stamping kits or other tools. The higher the quality of the metal used, the longer these personal things will last. Metal stamping is also an industrial fabrication process used to create weaponry, vehicle components, dollar bill changers, vending machines, decorative sheet metal parts, medical life-saving devices, and many other items.

Stamping includes a variety of sheet-metal forming manufacturing processes, such as punching using a machine press or stamping press, blanking, embossing, bending, flanging, and coining. This could be a single stage operation where every stroke of the press produce the desired form on the sheet metal part, or could occur through a series of stages. The process is usually carried out on sheet metal, but can also be used on other materials, such as polystyrene.

When working with metal stamping in the industrial world, material quality is very important. A metal stamping company may work with aerospace or medical industries creating products that can save lives-if the metal used is of low quality, lives can be destroyed instead.

Stamping simulation is a technology that calculates the process of sheet metal stamping, predicting common defects such as splits, wrinkles, springback and material thinning. Also known as forming simulation, the technology is a specific application of non-linear finite element analysis. The technology has many benefits in the manufacturing industry, especially the automotive industry, where lead time to market, cost and lean manufacturing are critical to the success of a company.

Recent research by the Aberdeen research company (October 2006) found that the most effective manufacturers spend more time simulating upfront and reap the rewards towards the end of their projects.

Stamping simulation is used when a sheet metal part designer or toolmaker desires to assess the likelihood of successfully manufacturing a sheet metal part, without the expense of making a physical tool. Stamping simulation allows any sheet metal part forming process to be simulated in the virtual environment of a PC for a fraction of the expense of a physical tryout.

Results from a stamping simulation allow sheet metal part designers to assess alternative designs very quickly to optimize their part for low cost manufacture.

Quality control is important, from verifying the metal when it's received to complete testing and inspection once the product is completed. Metal stamped parts can be made into fuel injectors for an automobile, engines in an aircraft, bayonet assemblies, and navigation systems used by the military. With components that can take lives if they fail, it's important to ensure the company you're working with takes quality control very seriously.

First inspection of the material when it is received is an important quality control process. If the metal company can verify where the materials that will be used in production come from, it is likely they take care to make sure your components do not fail on you. Material identification provides documentation as to where the metal has been before being used in fabrication; it shows where it's made and how it's transferred. By using metals from reputable sources, metal stampings are more durable, smoother, and last longer than questionable materials.

Final inspection of the completed component is just as important as material identification. By performing non-destructive testing and other inspection methods on the product, any defaults or other issues will be noticed. A company with high quality standards keeps their rejected products to less than 1%. This shows that quality control is completed during every step of the fabrication process.

Metal stamping prototypes are a great way to ensure that the final fabrication of all parts will be correct in tolerance, size, durability, and design. Whether the prototype is a working part or not, working with companies who offer this as an option can mean the difference between getting exactly what you want and a completed order that doesn't match your needs.

Shower drain tool and method for installing and removing a shower drain

A shower drain tool includes a blade for engagement with the ribs on the internal surface of a shower drain. The tool also includes a stabilizer plate connected to the blade to seat the tool on the drain and prevent the tool from falling through the drain into the drain pipe. The tool further includes one of various tool adapters.

The tool adapter can be a nut to be spanned by an adjustable or open-end wrench, or a hole into which a socket wrench drive or the tip of a breaker bar or T bar can be inserted, to rotate the tool. The tool adapter can also be a pipe wrench extension so that a pipe wrench can be used to rotate the tool. Alternatively, the tool can include a device, such as a T bar, integral with the stabilizer plate to rotate the tool.

Shower drain commonly used as a drain for a shower having a tile floor, the shower drain comprising a threaded flange which is rotated onto a threaded drain pipe, the shower drain further comprising a rim, the rim being mounted to the flange with a shower pan membrane captured between the flange and the rim, the rim having an upper edge and internal ribs;a blade for engagement with the ribs of the shower drain so that the drain can be rotated by torque applied to the blade;a stabilizer plate connected to the blade to seat the tool on the upper edge of the rim of the shower drain, the diameter of the stabilizer plate being sufficient that the stabilizer plate frictionally engages the upper edge of the rim to maintain the tool seated on the drain while the tool is being rotated and to prevent the tool from falling through the drain into the drain pipe; and means coupled to the stabilizer plate for imparting rotation to the blade.

The shower drain tool as defined in claim 1 wherein the means coupled to the stabilizer plate for imparting rotation to the blade comprises a pipe wrench extension connected to the stabilizer plate, the pipe wrench extension being configured so that a pipe wrench can grip the extension and be used to rotate the tool.

Many tools have been developed for use by the construction industry. Various general purpose tools are commonplace, such as a hammer, saw, screwdriver, wrench, and numerous other tools. Certain tools have been developed or refined for particular trades, for example, roofing hammers have been developed for roofers, miter saws have been developed for finish carpenters, side cutters have been developed for electricians, and pipe wrenches have been developed for plumbers, etc. Specialized tools facilitate efficient completion of the work required to be performed by the particular tradesman.

By way of example, plumbers typically possess various tools, such as a pipe wrench, pipe cutter, breaker bar, T bar, etc. Plumbers also typically use specialized tools that enable them to more efficiently complete certain tasks, such as the installation of drain hardware.

Consequently, it would be desirable to provide a tool for removal of a commonplace shower drain used in a shower having a tile floor, such as the E-Z Test drain. It would also be desirable to provide a tool to facilitate installation of such a drain. Preferably, such a tool would be rugged in construction and inexpensive and yet provide an effective tool for removal and installation of a shower drain.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a tool to remove a shower drain commonly used as a drain for a shower having a tile floor. The shower drain tool in accordance with the present invention can also facilitate installation of the drain.

The shower drain tool in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention comprises a blade for engagement with the ribs of a shower drain so that the drain can be rotated by torque applied to the blade. The shower drain tool also comprises a stabilizer plate connected to the blade to seat the tool on the shower drain and prevent the tool from falling through the drain into the drain pipe. Additionally, the shower drain tool preferably comprises means coupled to the stabilizer plate for imparting rotation to the blade.

Metal stamping process using a wire preform

Metal parts can be economically fabricated by a metal stamping that comprises preforming a piece of wire to have a shape corresponding to the 2-dimensional configuration of a desired product workpiece, flattening the wire to form a metal blank, and subjecting the metal blank to metal stamping to obtain the desired product workpiece. The process can significantly reduce the amount of scrap material and thereby reduce manufacturing costs.

Metal parts are fabricated by a variety processes such as casting, die casting, and forging. One of the more common processes used for manufacturing metal parts is called metal stamping, which has been in use for over 150 years. Metal stamping,which in general involves taking a flat metal sheet and converting into a shaped article (i.e., a metal part) using a die and press, is a cost-effective process because it permits metal parts to be manufactured at high production rates.

In a conventional metal stamping process, a sheet of metal stock material, such as aluminum, copper, zinc, steel, stainless steel, nickel, titanium, or the like, is introduced into a stamping press such as a mechanical or hydraulic stampingpress. The stamping press has a die means and a punch means which together are used to form blanks from the initial sheet of stock material. These blanks are then subjected to further stamping procedures to form metal parts.

A disadvantage of conventional metal stamping processes is that the formation of the blanks from the initial sheet of stock material and the subsequent further processing of the blanks into metal parts can result in generation of excessiveamounts of scrap material, thereby adding to the cost of manufacture due to both loss of material and cost of waste disposal.

After the preforming stage, the shaped wire or preform is then subjected to a flattening process to achieve a "blank" from which the desired product workpiece will be obtained via a stamping process. The term "wire" as used herein is not to belimited to wires having circular cross sections. Wires of other cross sections such as square, rectangular, etc can also be used. Further, the effective diameter of the wire can vary widely depending on the desired thickness of the metal part and theflattening process. The wire can be flattened by any typical process suitable for applying the requisite pressure to a piece of metal. For example, a shaped section of wire having an effective or nominal diameter of, for example, 3 to 50 mm, preferably5 to 20 mm, can be flattened to a preformed piece of metal having a thickness of, for example, 1 to 30 mm, such as 1 to 25 mm or 8 to 30 mm, preferably 2 to 8 mm, by passage through a mechanical or hydraulic press that applies a pressure of, for example,60 to 1000 tons, preferably 100 to 600 tons. The dimensions and tonnage listed above are merely provided as examples and are not intended to limit the invention.

Thus, the width and thickness of the blank are determined by the selection of the nominal diameter of the wire and the amount of pressure imposed during the flattening process. The length of the blank is determined primarily by the performingstage, by selecting the length of the wire and it's perform shape prior to the flattening step, although the flattening step will also influence the overall length of the blank.

This procedure, in which the blank is made from a flattened preformed wire, results in considerable savings in material costs as the blank obtained from the flattened preformed wire requires far less material than a conventional blank obtainedfrom a metal sheet. In other words, in a conventional procedure blanks are cut and formed from a sheet of flat rolled metal. This procedure inherently imposes material costs due to the resultant scrap material. Yet, in the process according to theinvention, the blank is formed with little or no material loss.

After the preform is converted into a blank, the blank can then be subjected to one or more further conventional metal stamping procedures. In such procedures, the blank can, for example, be "stamped" in a die and press arrangement such as in amechanical or hydraulic press whereby excess material is trimmed from the blank to form a desired product workpiece, either a final product or an intermediate thereof. A typical metal stamping machine is a Minster.RTM. 200 ton mechanical press.

Method for Finishing Characteristics of Metal Stamping Dies

A method for improving the release and finish characteristics of metal stamping dies includes shot peening the interior die cavity walls with substantially spherical shot having a hardness value at least equal to the hardness value of the die cavity walls.

Optimizing the parameters of the peening process, such as the Almen intensity and the shot type, size, hardness and uniformity, maximizes the improvement to the release and finish characteristics of the die. Optionally, the initial shot peening is followed by a second shot peening with substantially spherical glass beads. Metal stamping dies shot peened in accordance with the present method exhibit substantial improvement in their release and finish characteristics over unpeened dies.

The present invention relates to metal stamping dies, and, more particularly, to a method for improving the release and finish characteristics of metal stamping dies through shot peening.

The use of metal stamping to produce a wide variety of metal parts is widespread. While there are variations of the metal stamping process, such as forming, piercing, deep drawing and the like and combinations thereof, and different types ofdies, such as single and multiple cavity dies and progressive dies, most of the principles and techniques are the same. The problems are also often the same.

One of the major problems which is common to virtually all metal stamping operations involvingdrawing or deformation of the workpiece,whereby the workpiece contacts the interior die cavity walls during the stamping operation, is a poor release characteristic between the workpiece and the die cavity walls. Poor release characteristics, whichcauses problems both during the stamping downstroke and the upstroke and workpiece removal stage, invariably leads to problems such as machine jams or smashups, misformed and non-uniform parts and poor finish characteristics on the workpiece surfaceproximal to the die cavity walls, such as scratches, galling, scoring, random shiny spots and the like. Although a poor release characteristic is most often the cause of a poor finish, poor finish can also be caused by other factors, such as heatbuildup, improper lubrication, surface flaws and the like.

Because of the high cost of rejected parts and the down time due to die maintenance and reconditioning, as well as the potential very high cost occasioned by a machine or die jam or smashup, constant efforts are being made to improve the releaseand finish characteristics of metal stamping dies. These efforts range from varying the composition of the die material to coating the interior die cavity walls with release agents, plating and the like. Even the die designer continually attempt toimprove the release and finish characteristics of dies by experimenting with variations of draft angles and the like.

While there has been steady improvement over the years, there is a continuing need for further improvements, especially improvements that are economical, reliable and durable.

The present invention was the result of the surprising discovery that shot peening metal stamping dies with generally spherical shot dramatically improves the release and finish characteristics of such dies, as well as substantially increasingdie life. Heretofore, the accepted rule in die construction and maintenance and reconditioning, with respect to achieving satisfactory release and finish characteristics, was to provide the interior die cavity walls with as smooth and uniform a surfaceas possible. Although shot peening has been in widespread use for years to increase the fatigue life and prevent stress corrosion cracking of metal parts, an irregular peened surface on the interior die cavity walls would predictably adversely affectthe release and finish characteristics of the die. Since any improvement in fatigue life or the prevention of stress corrosion cracking through shot peening would not be worth the sacrifice of having to accept poor release and finish characteristics ofthe die, shot peening has never been seriously considered for treatment of the interior die cavity walls of metal stamping dies.

In the broader aspects of the present invention, conventional shot peening techniques and equipment are utilized, i.e., the surface of the part is bombarded with shot by a peening apparatus under controlled conditions. However, in the preferredembodiment, optimum results are achieved by utilizing specific combinations of parameters with respect to shot type, size, hardness and Almen peening intensity. Examples of suitable conventional peening apparatus include air blasting equipment whichpropel the shot media at the part under air pressure, utilizing either suction, direct pressure or gravity feed, and airless or centrifugal wheel equipment which propels the shot media at the part by a rotating wheel. There are also freefall peeningmachines, where the shot media is dropped upon the part from various selected heights.

With respect to the shot peening media, the media must be substantially spherical. Irregular, angular or abrasive media, such as employed in grit blasting and sand blasting, are unacceptable in the method of the present invention. While avariety of generally spherical peening media may be utilized, such as steel shot, ceramic media and conditioned cut steel wire shot, steel shot is preferred. In the case of cut steel wire shot, it must be conditioned prior to use, such as by blasting itagainst a steel plate until the particles are rounded. Whichever peening media is selected, it must have a hardness value at least equal to the hardness value of the die cavity walls to achieve the improvements of the method of the present invention.

The peening process should be conducted under conditions that will yield substantially 100% coverage and saturation of the interior die cavity walls. In addition, it has been found that increasing the depth of the compressive stress layerprovides additional improvement. A substantial improvement, especially in die life, is achieved when the compressive stress layer is about 0.02 inch or greater. This increase in die life is partly due to the fact that some surface metal is removedduring each periodic maintenance or reconditioning operation. Accordingly, the greater the depth of the compressive stress layer, the more the amount of metal that can be removed during maintenance and reconditioning operations before the benefits ofthe shot peening are negated.

The optimum shot peening intensity will vary depending upon the hardness of the dies and the type of die metal. Under the generally accepted Almen shot peening intensity standard, which was developed by the General Motors Research LaboratoriesDivision of General Motors Corporation, the various variables of shot peening are integrated into a single scale for measuring, specifying and duplicating shot peening intensities and results. All measurements are made on the standard Almen No. 2 gage,as shown in the SAE Manual on Shot Peening, AMS 2430 and MIL S-13165. Even though the exact optimum Almen intensity will vary as the die material and shot parameters vary, it has been found that when regular hardness steel shot, with a Rockwell hardnessof from about C45 to about C55, is utilized, the desired compressive stress layer of at least about 0.02 inch will be achieved with Almen intensities of from about 0.004 to about 0.014 C2.

Also, while the optimum size of the shot peening media will vary, steel shot with a Mil Spec size of from about SAE 70 to about SAE 230 is preferred for most applications. For optimum reliability and uniformity of the peening media, cast steelshot certified to Mil Spec 13165 is especially preferred.

Finally, it has been found that yet further improvement is achieved by following the initial shot peening with a second shot peening utilizing substantially spherical glass beads. The optional second peening procedure provides primarily acleaning function and enhances the uniformity of the peened die surface.

The improvement achieved in the die release and finish characteristics by the present method is consistent and dramatic over a wide range of varying die constructions. One of the clearest gages of improvement is to monitor the frequency of diecleaning and reconditioning that is required. Comparison testing between untreated dies and dies shot peened in accordance with the present invention at various stamping work stations at a major automotive assembly plant revealed consistent improvementwith the shot peened dies. From large steel quarter panel dies to smaller front fender steel insert dies, the results are the same. The shot peened dies experienced far less down time and required far fewer periodic maintenance and reconditioningoperations. The improvement as a function of reduced down time and periodic maintenance and reconditioning ranges from a factor of several fold to a factor of over 30. In addition, the surface finish of the stamped parts is consistently uniform andfree from flaws.

In addition to the improvements that the present method provides with respect to release and finish characteristics and the reduction of down time and the need for periodic maintenance and reconditioning, additional advantages are achieved. Costwise, the present method is less costly than most other surface treatments and coatings which are applied to the interior die cavity walls. Moreover, additional cost savings are realized during die reconditioning or modification. Coatings, such asplating, tend to chip and flake and eventually must be replaced at high cost. In the event that the die needs modification due to an engineering change or the like or requires a repair operation such as welding, only the immediate area that is alteredor repaired may require repeening. In sharp contrast, such an isolated modification or repair in a plated die most often requires the entire die surface to be replated.

Thus, the surprising discovery that shot peening metal stamping dies in accordance with the present method dramatically improves release and finish characteristics, instead of adversely affecting them as would be predicted, has resulted in asimple, reliable and economical method which can benefit the entire metal stamping industry.

The Tile Shower Drain -- More Than You Can See

The tile shower drain is tricky and much of the tricky part is buried in the shower pan. Look, the whole tile shower is made to route all the water to the drain. All that water includes the part that leaks through the floor. Because tile floors are never completely water-tight. Some water ends up leaking right through the floor.

The drain has holes that are on two layers. The top layer you can easily see. The lower layer is down in the floor. The two layers are crucial to make the shower floor work.

Here's the way it works.

Usually the drain is attached to the drain pipe so the drain base sits right on the subfloor. Then you build a very important layer next. It's a masonry layer that slopes at about 1/4 inch per foot from the base of the drain up on the shower walls.

Then over that slopedlayer is installed the real trick to a shower floor. A waterproof sheet membrane is set over the sloped mortar and then attached right on top of the drain base. That liner is sealed to the base so the water that makes it to the liner is sent right to the lower drain holes.

After the liner is fitted in all the corners, which is tricky, the next layer is installed.

The next layer is another masonry layer that is the base for actually laying the shower floor tiles. So it's a mortar layer, then the liner membrane, then more mortar.

But think about this...

Learning how to make a shower pan using mortar is the time=tested way to build a problem-free shower. The really tricky part about building shower pans is the best parts are hidden. The critical parts are buried in the shower floor and can't be seen after the shower is finished. Here are some of the basics that must be right.

1. The liner membrane.

Did you know that a shower floor naturally leaks. It's true. The tile grout and even some tiles are not waterproof at all. Water just passes right through the floor and that can cause major damage. The key to a shower pan that works is one layer. That's a waterproof layer that is actually built into the floor. That's usually a vinyl sheet that catches all the water that leaks into the floor.

2. Pre-sloped mortar.

That vinyl liner membrane is installed over a sloped layer of mortar. The slope throws the water toward a special shower drain. That means the water that makes it to the waterproof layer won't just pool within the shower floor and sit there. Without a slope below the liner, the shower base becomes a moldy mess.

3. Deck mud.

The mortar used to build the floor is often called deck mud. It's a special mix of parts, but it's a simple mix. It's just portland cement, sand and water. That's it. Those three ingredients in the right recipe are all you want.

4. Walls count too.

There' more than mortar too. See, the high moisture shower can ruin the walls behind the tile too. That's why usually cement board is the wall base of choice. That's because cement board won't rot. It's also important thought to put a waterproof layer behind the cement board. Otherwise, the walls can become damp and a moldy mess hidden out of sight.

5. The top mortar.

The second layer of mortar and the top layer of the shower pan is a final sheet of deck mud. This is actually laid right over the liner membrane. Ever thought about how the water that makes it to the liner membrane makes it to the drain? It seems like water wouldn't move through a solid masonry layer. That's where the special tile shower drain enters the picture.

If you want to learn how to make a shower pan, you must understand some of the hidden parts. The waterproof liner membrane and the special tile shower drain are really the keys to a leak-proof shower. Those are both buried in the floor and that's why it's hard to see how they work.

Wouldn't the mortar stop up the lower shower drain holes? How could you have shower drain holes that are down inside a "solid" masonry floor? How's that?

The Custom Metal Stamping Process

Today, manufacturing has embraced a wide range of advanced technologies that have enabled the reduction of turnaround time considerably. As a result, demand on the metal stamping industry has also increased as the components have to be made to be exactly suitable to the final product. This has made precision and custom metal stamping much more important in the manufacturing industry.

Custom metal stamping is the process of creating metal products according to the required sizes and shapes through a method called stamping. It involves the pressing or stamping of the metal in dies or press tools to give it the right shape. In custom metal stamping, the final products are made according to customer's precise requirements and conditions. Custom metal stamping is used in various industries like construction, electrical, bearing, automotive, medical and janitorial, among others.

Metal stamping typically involves the normal process of metal stamping but with certain changes. These can be the change in the kind of metal to be used, changes in the size and shape of the final product, the need to produce many kinds of sizes and shapes, high quality of the tools used, the volume and the number of units to be produced, the kinds of presses required and the number of presses and dies required. Some producers are changing their processes to accommodate any volume, up to thousands of tons.

There are several challenges to be met by the custom metal stamping companies. These are producing a high quality product, designing new products or re-engineering existing products to suit customers' needs while also meeting delivery requirements. The company has to be involved in every stage right from product design assistance to the final delivery. Additionally, the costs also have to be kept low even as the scope of offerings is increased.

Sheet metal stamping is the system wherein metal sheets are used for producing final products. When a metal sheet is inserted into the die or the press, it is molded into the required shape and size. Metal sheets of only a certain thickness can be inserted into metal stamping machines. The maximum limit for most metal stamping machines is ? inch. However, machines can be designed to accommodate sheets of greater thickness also. Even the kind of metal sheets that can be processed in metal stamping are also specific. Only certain metals or alloys can be used like aluminum, brass, steel (hot rolled or cold rolled), galvanized steel, stainless steel, copper, zinc and titanium.

Before the metal sheet is inserted into the machine, the customer provides the prototype or at least a diagram of the final product. In case the customer doesn't have a clear idea of what the final product should look like, most metal stamping producers also offer engineering services for designing the products as well. Even some secondary services such as deburring and plating are provided by the metal stamping companies after the metal sheet is stamped.

There are three main components in sheet metal stamping -- the die, the punch and the binder/blank holder. The sheet is kept between the blank holder and the die and the punch is driven into the die wherein the sheet spreads over the die because of the drawing and stretching. The blank holder provides the restraining force that is required to control the sheet flow into the die. This force prevents wrinkling and tearing of the sheet as the quantity of material going into the machine can be controlled. For some processes where the blank holder force is too high for the material, draw beads are used to create the restraining force.

Sheet metal stamping is also known as thin stampings. Sheet metal stamping is used most primarily in the case-building process. It is also the most important part as each of the panels has to be stamped one by one. First the motherboard tray is stamped, then one-side panels on the right and left from bottom to top and back.

Goodbye to Water Worries - Install a Shower Pan & Liner

Although showers laden with ceramic tile look great, leaks are an inevitable fact of life. You can't assume your shower drain floor is waterproof just because you see no visible signs of tile or grout damage. Ceramic tile showers are not waterproof; they are water-repellent. Under the tiled floor surface lies about 2 inches of cement mortar. When using the shower, this mortar becomes saturated with water. Small "weep holes" at the base of the drain fixture allow the water to move down the drain pipe. Still, over time the water infiltration can cause damage to the grout, causing loose tiles and crumbling grout lines. Shower liners beneath the mortar are what protect the subfloor from deteriorating in the same way.

Most modern shower floors incorporate a flexible liner as a waterproof membrane beneath the tile and mortar. These liners are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or chlorinated polyethylene (CPE). The membranes are used in lieu of the outdated lead shower pans that were used years ago (and would ultimately fail over time). The flexible liners, available at plumbing wholesale stores and ceramic tile shops, are made of a rubber-like material that is impervious to water and resistant to the many chemicals found in a home. In fact, the stuff is probably an environmentalist's nightmare—it never seems to deteriorate.

The flexible liners conform to the various contours of the wood framing, bending upward at the walls and folding into corners. PVC liners tend to be stiffer and more difficult to work with than CPE liners, so a CPE liner might be a smart way to go for any first-time DIY'ers tackling the job. The drawback to CPE is that the material can be almost three times as expensive per square foot as the PVC product.

Line it Yourself

Installing a flexible shower pan liner is not beyond the ability of a smart do-it-yourselfer, but there are a few guidelines to help ease the procedure. This article will assume the subfloor of the shower is constructed of plywood, although the same principles apply to concrete flooring where the sloped mortar bed is applied beneath the pan liner. The installation method is the same for CPE and PVC liners, with the exception of the bonding adhesive used for seaming.

For a typical plywood subfloor, begin by cutting a hole in the center of the shower floor for the drain assembly. Start with a small hole; you can always cut away more material with a utility knife, but you don't want the drain hole to be too big. Then lay the drain base in the opening. Make sure the liner doesn't interfere with the drain's weep holes. Once you have made a good fit, use adhesive silicone caulk on both sides of the liner where it contacts the drain. Plastic plumbing drains usually have a 1/8-inch flange lip that project's above the subfloor. In some cases this may stop some of the water from easily flowing into the drain. One solution to this is to route a channel that allows the top of the drain flange to be flush with the subfloor. Then solvent-weld the drain base to the drain pipe using the appropriate solvent cement.

To prevent the small weep holes in the drain from getting clogged with cement or debris, place washed pea gravel over the holes. It may help to cover the drain base opening with duct tape to keep out debris until you're ready to add the finished drain.

Many tile shower drains have threaded, adjustable finished drains that allow you to adjust them to a wide range of finished floor thicknesses. The flexible liners attach to the drain like a rubber washer pinched between a nut and bolt. Once the adjustable finished drain is tightened, all the water in the shower will flow toward the drain.

The pre-measured liner needs to lap up the sides of the shower walls at least 9 inches. It is nailed to the framing studs of the shower near the top of the lapped edge. If it is necessary to seam together two pieces of material, a special solvent can be used to glue them together to form a single waterproof liner.

Spread the liner material from the drain body outward, toward the side framing and the curb so it lays flat on the floor. Fold the corners and nail or staple the liner to the sidewall framing or wall studs. Fasten 1/2 inch below the upper edge of the material. Work your way around the perimeter of the liner, fastening it into the framing. Lap the edge of the liner completely over the shower curb and nail it to the outside edge of the curb.

Tip: Are you also building the framing of the shower? If you can adjust the rough framing slightly, installing the liner can be a much easier job. When framing a shower, leave 1/4 inch of additional space at the end of each corner. This means the total wall length is 1/2 inch shorter than the opening. The gap provides a good place to store the extra CPE membrane material that bunches up as you round the corner. If you don't have the option of adjusting the framing, then just keep the corner folds as flat and tight as possible.

Test the installation by plugging the drain pipe and filling the shower basin with water just below the top of the curb, and then let it sit for four hours. Check for leaks and repair as necessary. Retest the liner until you're sure the installation is leak-free. Completely drain the water and dry the shower before moving on with construction.

Surefire Slope for Shower Floors

The Oneliner from Dix Systems is a structured liner for use in ceramic tiled showers that will stop any leakage from the shower floor and help prevent mildew problems. Constructed of heavy-duty polyethylene, this single-piece liner eliminates folds and seams and provides the necessary slope to channel water to the shower drain without the need for any extra backing. The liner can be can custom manufactured to any size.

Sheet Metal Stamping In The Automotive Industry

Historically, sheet metal stamping has been used extensively to produce automotive body panels. Although sheet metal stamping use has decreased with the advent of fiberglass body panels, sheet metal stamping is still the most popular material for manufacturing automobiles today. The addition of lasers and robotics to the automobile manufacturing process has further expanded the way that sheet metal stamping is processed.

Lasers

Lasers have been used in production facilities since the 1960's. Today, they are used to cut, form holes, engrave, weld or heat treat sheet metal stamping for use in automotive production.

Lasers are used in applications that rely on precise measurements and exact alignments.

The adjustment of lasers is measured in micrometers, or millionths of a meter.

There are many different types of lasers used to alter sheet metal stamping and plastics in the automotive industry.

Carbon dioxide laser- uses a mixture of carbon dioxide, nitrogen and helium to produce a continuous laser output

Continuous-wave laser- this type of laser produces light beams continuously rather than in controlled pulses

Excimer laser-emits light in a UV spectrum that is used for producing high quality edges on parts that are prone to cracking or thermal damage; it falls into the category of pulsed-gas lasers

Gas laser-any laser that uses a gas mixture as the lasing medium; common gases are argon and carbon dioxide

Pulsed laser-emits light in controlled pulses and is preferred for thin materials ; it can be used to create intricate details and work in tight corners without burning

Ruby laser-a solid state laser that uses a synthetic ruby crystal with a chromium impurity as the lasing medium

Solid-state laser-a type of laser that uses a crystal or glass as the host for an impurity to produce the lasing action; especially useful for precise measuring and spot welding

Yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) laser-ranges in power from a few milliwatts to more than 400 watts; used for cutting, drilling, heat treating and welding operations

Robotics

Robotics are often used for repetitive tasks, monotonous jobs or those parts of the manufacturing process that are physically difficult or take place in environmentally unpleasant conditions. They are directed by computer programs and perform precise operations without human intervention.

Lasers and robotics have significantly increased the speed at which sheet metal stamping can be processed in the automotive manufacturing process. Continued technological advancements in these two areas will further increase the cost effectiveness and productivity of automotive manufacturing facilities.

A Cheap and Easy Way to Unclog a Shower or Bathtub Drain

My friend recently called to tell me about a very cheap and easy innovative product that worked incredibly well to unclog a shower drain and bathtub drain in his home. The shower and bathtub had been draining very slowly, and he found a good product that was cheap and easy to use.

Many people resort to using coat hangers, caustic chemicals, natural products that do not work, or they end up taking apart shower or bathtub drains when all they really need is a two-dollar item from their local hardware or home improvement store. This cheap and easy way to unclog bathtub, shower, or sink piping is called a Zip-It Drain Cleaning Tool, and according to my friend, it pulls out tremendous amounts of hair and other accumulated gunk from the bathtub, shower, or sink piping. It was amazingly cheap and very easy to use, and it was a great alternative to waiting for his landlord to do the job.

Precautionary Statement

As with any product, no matter how cheap or easy it seems to operate, use commonsense, and read product label instructions before attempting to unclog bathtub, shower, sink drains, or any other clogged piping.

Description of the Zip-It Drain Cleaning Tool

Do not bother destroying and bending a metal coat hanger in an effort to unclog hair from a bathtub, sink, or shower drain, and do not waste time taking the drains apart or using a toilet plunger to unclog the mess. According to my friend, the Zip-It Drain Cleaning Tool works like a charm to unclog shower, bathtub, and sink drains filled with hair, globs of soap, body oil, and other unidentifiable gunk that has attached itself to the hair and the sides of piping. He was amazed by how cheap, easy, and how fast this product worked to unclog all of the drains in his rented home.

The Zip-It Drain Cleaning Tool is said to be a fantastic product that works like a plumbing snake, but unlike an ordinary plumbing snake, it has backwards facing barbs that work to unclog a shower or bathtub drain in a matter of minutes. The Zip-It Drain Cleaning Tool is twenty-four inches in length, and although it is said to be a disposable product, when care is taken it can be cleaned and used again and again. Why throw something away just because it is inexpensive and labeled as disposable? My son kept the Zip-It Drain Cleaning Tool he purchased and has no intention of throwing it away until the barbs break and it is no longer useful to unclog the bathtub, sink, or shower drain in his home.

How to Unclog a Drain with this Cheap and Innovative Tool

To unclog a shower, bathtub, sink, or almost any other drain that is clogged with hair and other gunk in a cheap and easy way, simply use the barb-covered snake according to product label instructions. Guide this cheap and easy product into a bathtub, sink, or shower opening, and pull it back to unclog the piping. It will unclog a shower, sink, or bathtub pipe filled with hair and the gunk that goes with it, and considering the other methods typically used to unclog a bathtub, sink, or shower drain, it is two dollars well-spent since it is cheap, easy, and most of all, it works.

Both the bathtub and shower drain in my rented home are currently draining very slowly, and I am sure they must be clogged with accumulated hair and other disgusting gunk. I plan on buying the cheap and easy Zip-It Drain Cleaning Tool next time I visit my local Ace Hardware or home improvement store. It would be nice to once again take a shower in the bathtub without the water continually rising and draining out slowly, and the Zip-It Drain Cleaning Tool sounds like a cheap and easy way to unclog just about any drain in the home.

Metal Stamping Tools and Die Hot Sheet Metal Stamping

Metal Stamping tools are hard tools made with hard materials like steel. Usually hot stamping die is used for stamping metal surfaces. Die is the tooling used to produce a stamped part. A die set assembly has male and female components that actually produce the shaped stamping. Stamping die stamps the design on the metallic surface by using moulding process.

Stamping can be fun when done right. But, you have to have the right stamping tool for precision metal stamping. Latest stamping methods are affordable and provide creative stamping solutions. Stamping tools can be used for stamping metal, foils, wood, leather and plastic. Stamping tools companies usually provide.

Stamping tools and dies servicesIn-house die designClean & organized tools roomFast tooling modificationsTry-out, first-run and capability Studies.

Whether you need a different part for a vehicle or for a roof of a building, is the ability to get the right shape through metal bending. The procedure that is used for bending can provide you with a custom fit and will help you to get the right results through the shape that is formed from this process. The different procedures that are used will create an alternative look to the metal and can help with the right formation of the metal for any need.

When beginning to look into metal bending, you will notice that there are several expected results from the procedures that are used. Different types of bending are divided according to the shape that you need with the metal. The most common types of bends are the V - shape, U - shape or channel shape. The other differences in the bends will depend on the length of the metal that is needed as well as the specific area that the metal will be used in. For instance, if the metal is going to be used for an air duct, it will need a different type of bend from the use of an automobile part.

The common shapes that are used with metal bending then move into several processes to make the correct design. Each of these is designed to create the right shapes of the metal while providing a convenient fit for different needs. One of the common types is known as the three point bend, which will fold the metal in several different places. Rotary bending and folding are other common procedures, each which are developed to create specific width, designs and measurements for different areas.

To formulate the type of metal bending that is used, manufacturers will use specific equations that determine the results of the metal. The processes used will begin with a determination of the thickness of the material. If the metal is thicker, then processes with more compression and air may be used.

There are also factors such as how much allowance can be used for the metal as well as what the deduction is for the metal. The angle in degrees will also be measured in relation to this. All of the metal bending will then fit together into a process that combines air compression and pressure to make the right look to the material.

The procedures and types of metal bending that are used by manufacturers create a different set of materials that can be used in various processes. After metal has been bent to the right shape, it will lead to a different set of uses. The result will be sturdy parts used for transportation, buildings and other areas that require extra support through the use of metal.

Metal Stamping:

Metal stamping tools and stamping dies are used to produce high volume sheet metal parts using press. Parts can be stamped from any ductile metal to create and achieve almost any desired configuration.

Metal stamping is generally performed on materials .020" to .080" thick with tolerances to ±.001. The process also can be applied to foils as thin as .001". Stamping is also done by machine press. The metal is placed between the press plates and pressed against each other. This deforms the metal into the desired shape.

Die Hot Sheet Metal Stamping:

The Die Hot Sheet Metal Stamping process is described as relief printing and as the name implies uses printing plates with raised images. Hot stamping is used in graphic arts, plastics and packaging industries. Die hot stamping is versatile. It can print onto all wettable materials - paper and board, thermoplastics and duroplastics, leather, textiles, wood and many other materials.

Best Ways to Unclog a Shower Drain

The bathrooms in most homes get more than their fair share of traffic and the problems that accompany heavy use, but by knowing the best ways to unclog a shower drain a homeowner can avoid the panic that occurs when a shower is not working properly.

The reafriends why shower drains can become clogged are usually all associated with the body oils and hair that go down the drain after each family member showers, and over time can cause a clog that can be tough to remove. The best ways to unclog a shower drain match the remedy to the severity of the clog, because the basic idea is to just get the water flowing again without the use of excessive measures.

The best way to unclog a shower drain that is only mildly showing signs of a slowing water flow is to place a cup of vinegar into the drain and let it stand for several hours. Follow this up with by running hot water down the shower drain and in most instances the drain will flow more freely. Another remedy to unclog a shower drain that is minor is to place an ounce of dish detergent that has an degreasing agent in it into the drain and to run hot water through the drain.

To unclog a shower drain that is moderately clogged, one of the best remedies is to place a commercial drain cleaner into the drain that has an acid base. These chemicals can cut through clogs rather quickly, especially clogs that are due to the accumulation of hair. In order to use this remedy, you must first remove the shower drain cover by unscrewing it and then use a crystallized drain cleaner that is placed directly into the drain. The reafriend for this is that liquid drain cleaners can overflow the drain and cause severe damage to bathtub interiors. After the chemical has been added let it work for as long as possible and then flush the drain by turning on the hot water.

Have you ever noticed a layer of white crusty stuff on your shower head? That is mineral deposits left by your water. Over time, it can clog the holes in your shower head and thus reduce the flow of water coming out of your shower head.

Vinegar is a great home remedy to get your shower head clean without damaging the finish on your shower head. Use a wrench to loosen your shower head to remove. To avoid the shower head being damaged by the wrench, wrap a towel around the shower head first so it is not damaged by the wrench. Then place the shower head in a bowl of white vinegar. Make sure all the holes of the shower head are completely submersed. Soak in the vinegar for about 15-20 minutes. Stubborn deposits may take a little longer, but do not soak for more than 30 minutes at a time. After soaking, use an old toothbrush or other stiff brush to scrub the holes clean. Before re-attaching the shower head, wrap some plumber's tape around the threads for a tight seal and prevent leaks. Run some hot water through the shower head to get rid of any remaining vinegar.

If you can't remove your shower head for cleaning, fill a small plastic bag like a sandwich bag with white vinegar and secure tightly around the shower head. As mentioned above, soak for 15-20 minutes but no longer than 30 minutes at a time. Use a brush to clean the holes, and run hot water through the shower head to rinse.

If you have ever noticed an orange ring left around your shower drain when all the water has run out, you probably have rust in your water or in your pipes. Your shower head may have an orange tint to it. Lemon juice rubbed onto your shower head is an effective cleaner. Baking soda with a little water to form a paste works well also. Rub the mixture on with a sponge and rinse with water. Follow that up with scrubbing the holes of the shower head with a brush to make sure there is no baking soda in the holes. There are also commercial cleaners like CLR that will work if there is considerable build-up. Follow the instructions carefully so as not to harm the finish on your shower head.

So keep your shower head clean to maintain a better flow of water, which will result in a better shower for you.

The best way to unclog a shower drain that is severely clogged is to remove the shower drain cover, and using a coat hanger remove as much hair and grease as is possible. A plumbing snake can them be used on the drain to open up the clog. If the water flow is good after this process the job is complete - if not remove the plumbing snake and then add chemical drain cleaner and that should do the trick to unclog the shower drain.

How to Become a Metal Stamping Press Operator

Factory work can be a thankless job most of the time without much of an opportunity for advancement, but the ability to become a metal stamping press operator can lead to bigger and better things.

In the metal stamping industry every employee looks for a more lucrative position in terms of pay, and to become a metal stamping press operator can provide an excellent learning opportunity that can result in promotion to a supervisory position or one that is at least less physically demanding. As far as the labor force in a factory goes tool and die makers usually make the most money, and many have started their careers as a metal stamping press operator.

To become a metal stamping press operator an unskilled person usually accepts a position as a laborer in a metal stamping plant. After a period of "paying your dues" an individual may be offered as position as a press tender, which encompasses any tasks that are necessary to keep a stamping press functioning at full capacity. These tasks may include bringing new steel to a metal stamping press operator or taking away the finished product.

After a period as a tender, the next step to become a metal stamping press operator is to assume the position of a "catcher" - the person that catches the pieces as they come from the stamping press and has the responsibility to check that there are no quality issues. The reason that time must be spent in each of these positions before an individual can become a metal stamping press operator is so that they can absorb the nuances of the job by watching and learning a skilled metal stamping press operator in action.

Eventually an individual will be promoted to become a metal stamping press operator and will initially be assigned a more simple stamping job on a press with a force of smaller size and tonage. Over time and with hundreds of thousands of repetitions, a metal stamping press operator will learn and rise in the factory heirarchy until they are considered competent enough to be assigned stamping jobs on 300 to 1,500 ton presses with a subsequent increase in salary based on experience and production.

A responsible employer will only allow an employee to become a metal stamping press operator after significant training has been completed. To become a sheet metal stamping press operator is not a tremendously difficult task, but when the job is performed incorrectly it can be an extremely dangerous situation for the metal stamping press operator as well as any other employee in the immediate vicinity.

How to Unplug A Shower Drain If You Have No Auger

Shower drain easily become clogged with a combination of hair, soap scum and whatever else sloughs off human bodies into the drain.

Do it yourself or with a friend. A neighbor and I recently unplugged his shower by this method as no auger was immediately available. It can be done by one, but a team of two ensures quicker success.

Remove the strainer over the drain. This is usually held in place with two screws. If there are none, use a pair of pliers, preferably long nosed ones. Catch the holes in the drain and lift it aside.

Fill your shower with a couple of inches of water. Now using a good plunger, plunge vigorously. This may work. It didn't work for us, so we moved on to step four.

Get your garden hose and jam in into the drain as far as easily possible. Wad up a small towel and hold tightly around the hole and against the drain opening. Your helper should now quickly turn on the hose with full force. He/she can turn it on and off several times and hopefully the clog will move on down the line.

Clean up and you are finished. I hope this works for you. If not, you may have to borrow, rent, or buy an auger. You will need a drain auger. You will need to push the auger into the drain until it can reach and catch the clog. You can then pull it out, whole or in parts.

Every once in a while you find yourself having to clean the bath tub drain because the water will no longer go down. You certainly don't look forward to it, but you know that if you don't unclog it, your next shower might feel more like a wading pool. Here are some tips on how to clean the bath tub drain:

First unscrew the drain cover to see what is lurking beneath. Most often the culprit of the clog in the bath tub drain is hair that's wrapped around the metal piece spanning the width of the drain.

Use the tweezers to pull out the hair that is stuck on the metal piece in bath tub drain. It might take some time to pull it out, and it WILL be slimy, but get as much of the hair out as possible.

Put on latex gloves and pull out any remaining hair that you cannot get out of the bath tub drain with the tweezers.

Still wearing the latex gloves, use your fingers to scrape the sides of the drain to loosen any mold or slime that is deposited onto the side wall of the bath tub drain.

Use the comet to clean the bath tub drain (as far as you can reach) and also clean the outside of the drain while you're there. Rinse the drain thoroughly with hot water.

Pour 1/5 bottle of the Drano Max Gel down the shower drain. For tougher clogs, pour 1/2 bottle. Let the Drano sit for 15 minutes (30 minutes for tough clogs), then flush it with hot water. Repeat this step if the bath tub drain is still clogged.

Finding the Right Metal Stamping Manufacturer

Sheet metal stamping products could range from the simplest to the most complex mechanical parts that are used in industries like automotive, house ware, aircraft, medical and communications. Such industries are constantly looking for manufacturers that will provide them the best metal products at affordable prices.

For a manufacturer, metalworking is by far the most effective and economical method to produce different types of metals. The process involves cutting and forming sheet metal into shapes and sizes based on a client's design and specifications. They make use of special tools such as stamping dyes, as well as the most innovative technologies that not only speed up the rate of production but also produce high quality products at affordable cost.

Sheet metal stamping is used to produce a wide variety of items like automobile panels, rain gutters, restaurant equipment, road signs and heating ducts, fabricating. As a result, installing and maintaining these items can be a hazardous job.

Sheet metal stamping workers are subject to frequent cuts, scrapes, burns and falls from scaffoldings or ladders. Many times, the sheet metal stamping production process itself requires repetitive heavy lifting, bending and squatting, putting workers at risk for back, neck and muscle injuries. Knowing the proper safety procedures can help keep sheet metal stamping production workers safe on the job.

Safety Equipment is everyone's Friend

While safety equipment may feel like a cumbersome, frivolous waste of time, safety gear is designed to prevent and limit injury should an accident occur. Accidents can happen in a matter of seconds.

During an accident, safety equipment must already be in place in order to be effective. Hard hats, gloves and safety glasses left in a truck or tool box are useless during an accident.

Sheet metal stamping workers can be subject to flying debris and tiny shards of metal shavings, cuts from sharp metal edges, crushing injuries from presses and other sheet metal stamping forming equipment, and burns from metal heated during production, installation or repair.

Many of these injuries have the potential to be life threatening unless safety equipment is worn when working around sheet metal stamping.

Preventing Back Injury in sheet metal stamping Workers

Back and neck injuries are one the most common causes of Worker's Compensation claims. A serious muscle injury can keep a sheet metal stamping worker from the job for months while muscles, tendons, tissue and bones heal.

Learning to lift with the large, strong muscles of the legs instead of the muscles of the neck, back and arms is crucial to preventing back injuries. A 100 pound woman can easily pick up a 150 pound weight with proper body mechanics.

Heavy lifting requires lowering the body's center of gravity. Bending at the knees improves balance and provides a stable, lowered center. Lifting is only begun after the neck and back muscles are relaxed. Upper body muscles should not bear the weight of the object being moved; they should only be used to hold the object near the body.

If at all possible, sheet metal stamping workers should plan and position their workstations and materials so that heavy items can be lifted from waist high in a standing position. Feet should be placed shoulder width apart, directly under the hips.

The body can also be positioned to take advantage pivoting movements that can reduce the chance of falls or improper body alignment during transfers of heavy objects. These lifting techniques can reduce muscle strain and prevent neck and back injuries in sheet metal stamping workers.

The best custom manufacturers spend enough time with their prospective clients discussing every aspect of the request, from the desired shape and size, as well as the end products' look and finish. They can also provide expert design and engineering services, as well as recommend the use of special materials and methods to further enhance the final product.

A reliable metalworking company conducts professional engineering with the help of a team of fully-trained personnel. The company should also be performing a series of quality checks and inspection procedures to ensure that every single product that leaves the production is of high quality and is able to meet the requirements of their clients. Doing a background check is the best way to determine which of the manufacturers can give you the best service when it comes to custom metal stamping.