Metal stamping is a manufacturing process that employs a specialized press, as well as tool and die set, to form sheet metal into a specified shape and size. Industry professionals employ metal stamping processes to produce a wide range of industrial parts and products. When looking for a metal stamping partner, there are several considerations to bear in mind. You’ll want to vet a company that offers the greatest value for your project.
The following piece provides an overview of some of the key factors to consider when choosing a metal stamping partner. In addition to metal stamping capabilities, qualities such as a broad selection of other fabrication and finishing services, extensive industry experience, and high quality standards are indicative of a high-value partner.
Partner vs. Supplier
When sourcing a metal stamping company, it is important to know the difference between a supplier and a partner. While a supplier has the metal stamping capabilities necessary to fulfill the project, a partner offers the required metal stamping services and more. The latter should be able to assist with all project needs, including design and engineering assistance, manufacturing, and/or finishing services. These offerings help shorten production timelines and reduce production costs.
Advanced Stamping Capabilities
While specialization is good, narrow specialization is not. For example, some projects may not overtly indicate which metal stamping process is appropriate. A metal stamping company that offers a wide range of in-house stamping capabilities—e.g., bending, blanking, coining, piercing, etc.—is better able to accommodate such projects. However, for projects that required advanced metalworking—i.e., deep draw stamping—it is essential to work with a specialist to ensure greater precision and accuracy in the finished parts.
Tooling Design and Development Services
Metal stamping companies that maintain an in-house tooling design and development team have greater control over part and process quality. As they have the ability to create custom tooling for every project, they are better able to ensure production proceeds as intended.
Secondary Services
As indicated above, a metal stamping partner should ideally offer more than just metal stamping capabilities. These secondary operations—provided in-house or through a network of reliable vendors—allow clients to receive a full-service stamping solution. Some of the other fabrication and finishing processes a partner may offer include:
- Heat treatment
- Forming and welding
- Painting and electrocoating
- Passivation and sterilization
- Pre-plating and post-plating processes
- Precious and non-precious metalwork
- Specialty edge cleaning and deburring
- Assembly
- Kitting & Custom Packaging
Industry Experience
Regardless of whether you [the customer] are in the aerospace, automotive, construction, appliance, or other industry, any potential metal stamping partner should have experience producing parts and products for your industry. This quality ensures the partner is familiar with any requirements or restrictions specific to the industry (e.g., using FDA compliant materials for medical devices).
Production Capacity
Both the type of equipment employed and the lead time for raw material orders estimated affect a company’s production capacity. A metal stamping partner should utilize metalworking equipment that allows them to complete projects efficiently without sacrificing precision or accuracy.
Quality Management
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) develops and publishes standards aimed toward ensuring the quality, safety, and efficiency of products and services. The ISO 9000 family of standards focuses on quality management principles regarding a company’s products and processes. Companies certified to ISO 9001 comply with the ISO’s criteria for quality management systems, meaning they are knowledgeable about best practices regarding quality and sustainability, and are actively and adequately working to integrate them.
Metal Stamping Solutions From Keats Manufacturing
At Keats Manufacturing Company, we are an ISO- and ITAF-certified manufacturer of high-quality custom metal stampings, wire forms, and assemblies. Equipped with over 60 years of metalworking experience and three state-of-the-art facilities, our team has the knowledge, skills, and tools to meet virtually any small metal stamping need, ranging in size and design complexity. Our metal stamping capabilities include:
- Bending
- Blanking
- Coining
- Curling
- Drawing
- Embossing
- Piercing
- Punching
We also offer in-house tooling design and development services, which allows us to create die and tools sets that achieve up to ±0.0005 inch tolerances throughout a metal stamping project.
The industries we serve include:
- Aerospace
- Appliances
- Automotive
- Communications
- Construction
- General manufacturing
- Medical and medical devices
- Military and defense
- Power distribution
- Renewable energy
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in a metal stamping partner's capabilities?
When evaluating a metal stamping partner, consider the following:
- Keats Manufacturing Co. operates one of the largest fleets of four-slide machines in North America, ensuring advanced stamping capabilities.
- Our unique Wünsch multi-slide machines provide exceptional precision for complex designs.
- We guarantee high-precision tolerances (±0.0002 in. for stamping) to meet your exact specifications.
How important is in-house tool and die development when choosing a partner?
In-house tool and die development is crucial for efficiency and quality:
- At Keats Manufacturing Co., we manage all tooling in-house, which allows for quick adjustments and reduced lead times.
- Our tooling comes with a lifetime guarantee, ensuring long-term reliability.
- This capability supports our commitment to high-volume production without compromising precision.
Why should I consider ISO certifications when selecting a metal stamping partner?
ISO certifications are key indicators of quality and compliance:
- Keats Manufacturing Co. is certified to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and IATF 16949, ensuring consistent quality standards.
- Suppliers who are ISO/IATF certified have strong quality systems.
- Choosing a certified partner like us means you can trust our processes and product integrity.
How does location impact my choice of a metal stamping partner?
Location can significantly affect production efficiency:
- Keats Manufacturing Co. has three strategically located campuses in Illinois, Texas, and Mexico, optimizing logistics and delivery times.
- Our facilities are state-of-the-art, equipped to handle various industrial applications efficiently.
- Proximity can also enhance communication and support throughout the manufacturing process.
What role does experience play in choosing a metal stamping partner?
Experience is vital for ensuring quality and reliability:
- With over 65 years in the industry, Keats Manufacturing Co. brings a rich legacy of expertise and technical knowledge.
- Our long-standing history has equipped us with the skills to handle complex projects across various sectors.
- An experienced partner like us can better anticipate challenges and offer innovative solutions.
How do I assess the precision capabilities of a metal stamping partner?
Assessing precision capabilities is essential for quality assurance:
- Keats Manufacturing Co. specializes in high-precision tolerances, achieving ±0.0002 in for stamping.
- Our advanced machinery and skilled engineers ensure each part meets exact specifications.
- Requesting sample work can further demonstrate our precision capabilities.
What should I know about the manufacturing processes used by a metal stamping partner?
Understanding manufacturing processes helps ensure they meet your needs:
- Keats Manufacturing Co. utilizes advanced stamping technologies, including four-slide and Wünsch multi-slide machines, for complex geometries.
- Our in-house tool and die development means we retain full control of the tooling process from start to finish.
- We also employ strict quality control measures at every stage of production to maintain high standards.
How can I ensure my metal stamping partner can handle high-volume production?
Ensuring high-volume production capability is critical for efficiency:
- Keats Manufacturing Co. is equipped with one of North America's largest fleets of stamping machines, enabling us to scale production as needed.
- Our experience with high-volume industrial and engineering applications ensures we can meet your demands without compromising quality.
- We also implement strict timelines and quality checks to maintain consistency throughout the production run.
To learn more about our metalworking capabilities or partner with us on your next project, contact us or request a quote today.