During the metal stamping process, blanks or coils of sheet metal feed through one or more die and tool sets. These die and tool sets form and cut the sheet metal into its desired shape.
At Keats, we perform a variety of custom metal stamping operations, including:
- Blanking
- Bending
- Punching
- Coining
- Drawing
- Embossing
- Piercing
- Curling
Our custom metal stamping methods are fast, reliable, and multi-functional. We deliver parts that provide exceptional performance to our customers. In addition, we have the ability to add special features to our stamped parts such as:
Threaded
Countersunk
Numbered
Embossed elements such as logos
Assembled
Staking
Joining
All our dies and tools are engineered and built in-house, using our state-of-the-art EDM and CNC machines. Creating our own die and tool sets allows us to maintain tight tolerances of up to 0.0005″ throughout the entire metal stamping process.
Production Methods
At Keats, we utilize several metalworking processes to create custom metal parts.
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Multi-slide and Four-slide Stamping
We own and operate one of the largest production fleets of Four-Slide machines in the world. We also are currently the only manufacturer in North America to operate Wünsch Multi-slide-forming machines. In both multi-slide and four-slide stamping the tooling accesses the metal at a right angle. In four-slide stamping the slides remain fixed at 90 degree angles, while in multi-slide stamping, the slides are on an adjustable forming bed.
In both methods, the positioning of each slide allows the creation complex bending operations for metals parts. Slide stamping’s ability to work with an unlimited number of planes and axes results in high customization capability with little waste.
Progressive Die Stamping
In progressive die stamping, the sheet metal acquires its shape by passing through a series of workstations. Each die is capable of cutting, bending, punching, coining, embossing, drawing, or shaving the metal.
Depending on the complexity of each part, the metal can pass through as few as one or as many as 40 steps. Progressive die stamping typically results in more waste than multi-slide or four-slide stamping, however, progressive die stamping tools are usually faster to set up.
Industries Served
Given our capabilities, we can serve the custom metal stamping needs of a broad range of industries and can projects of all sizes. Since 1958, Keats has served a variety of industries, including:
Communications
Construction
General Manufacturing
Military / Defense
Keats Portfolio
Our portfolio highlights just some of the parts that we’re capable of producing.
MEDICAL
Custom Beryllium Copper Spring-Contact Stamping
APPLIANCES
Custom Copper Top Spring Stamping & Contact Assembly
AUTOMOTIVE
Custom Phosphor Bronze Terminal Stamping
AUTOMOTIVE
Custom Steel Shield Four Slide/Multi-Slide Stamping Reel-to-Reel
AUTOMOTIVE
Phosphor Bronze Terminals
ELECTRICAL
Custom Brass-Formed Hinged Contact Jaw
Full-Service Custom Metal Stamping
Our services go beyond custom metal stamping. We offer secondary services to provide end-to-end solutions to our customers, including:
Plating
E-Coating
Heat-treating
Stress Relieving
Pick & Place
Screw Insertion
Reel-to-reel
Tape & reel
Quality control and quality enhancement are at the heart of what we do. To learn how we can create custom metal stamping parts to your specifications, please contact us.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What materials can be used for custom metal stamping?
Each material has unique properties, making them suitable for different applications and industries.Custom metal stamping can utilize a variety of materials, including:
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Brass
- Copper
- Bronze
- Stainless steel
How long does the custom metal stamping process take?
Keats supports the entire process from prototype development through high-volume production. The duration of the custom metal stamping process can vary based on several factors:
- Complexity of the design
- Quantity of parts being produced
- Type of material used
What industries commonly use custom metal stamping?
Custom metal stamping is utilized across various industries, including:
- Automotive
- Electronics
- Medical devices
- Appliances
- And others like electrical distribution, communications, construction, renewable energy, military, and defense.
How do I choose the right production method for my project?
Selecting the right production method depends on:
- Multi-slide and Four-slide stamping — ideal for complex bending and customized geometry with minimal waste.
- Progressive die stamping — suitable for parts that require sequential operations through multiple stations; faster setup for many jobs.
Are there any design considerations for custom metal stamping?
Yes, design considerations for custom metal stamping include:
- Material thickness
- Tolerances and fits
- Stress points in the design
- Ease of assembly
- Surface finish requirements
Can custom metal stamping be combined with other manufacturing processes?
Yes, custom metal stamping can be integrated with other processes such as:
- Plating
- E-coating
- Heat-treating
- Stress relieving
- Pick & Place
- Screw insertion
- Reel-to-reel and tape & reel packaging
What are the cost factors involved in custom metal stamping?
Cost factors in custom metal stamping include:
- Material selection
- Tooling and setup complexity
- Production method and volume
- Complexity of the design
How do I get started with a custom metal stamping project?
To begin a custom metal stamping project, follow these steps:
- Define your project requirements (design, materials, volume)
- Contact Keats Manufacturing for project discussions.
