Cutting and Drilling in Steel Structures

In steel structure manufacturing, blanking and hole making are crucial processes for ensuring component accuracy. For parts of the same specification with a thickness not exceeding 12mm and produced in batches, punching with a punch press is the preferred method. During operation, a die matching the part size must be selected and accurately installed on the punch press. A trial punch must be performed to confirm the first piece's quality before proceeding to batch production. This method is efficient, ensures consistent hole positions, and is suitable for standardized assembly line production.

Punching with a Stamping Die:

1. Stamping can be used for batches of parts of the same specification with a thickness ≤12mm.

2. Select a matching die and install it on the stamping machine.

3. Trial punching.

4. Batch production after the first piece passes inspection.

When machine cutting is not possible, manual cutting can be used. During operation, precise lines are first drawn on the steel plate to determine the hole position and outline. Then, cutting is performed with the aid of tooling, strictly controlling the cutting path within the drawn lines. Although manual cutting is slower, it offers greater flexibility and is suitable for irregularly shaped holes or areas difficult for equipment to reach.

 Manual Hole Cutting

Holes cannot be cut using equipment; they can be cut manually by scribing.

1. Scribing

2. Cutting (using tooling);

3. Cutting within the line.

 Another commonly used method is drilling combined with manual cutting. First, round holes are drilled at both ends of the hole position as positioning references. Then, the two round holes are connected, and a cutting line is drawn. The middle portion is cut along the cutting line, and finally, the cut edges are ground. This method combines the precision of drilling with the adaptability of manual cutting, and is especially suitable for long, narrow holes or irregularly shaped openings, effectively improving the quality and efficiency of hole making.