Precision Metal Parts Manufacturing and Processing
Definition of Precision Metal Parts
Precision metal parts refers to machine parts or components made of metal parts, as well as some small metal parts products. It has high requirements for precision, and the tolerance is usually within 0.05mm. It is widely used in electronics, machinery, aviation, new energy and other industries. Precision metal parts can be classified according to its use and shape, such as automotive parts (including various automotive structural parts, automotive relays, new energy power battery accessories, etc.), electronic parts (generally including connector parts, connectors, terminals, shrapnel parts, etc.), household appliance parts and other spare parts.
Processing Technology of Precision Metal Parts
Cutting Processing
- Turning
Removing materials through the relative movement between the rotating workpiece and the tool. It is suitable for machining rotating parts such as shafts and disks and can achieve high-precision outer circles, inner circles, end faces, threads, etc.
- Milling
The tool reciprocates on the surface of the work-pieceto remove materials. It is suitable for machining planes, grooves and complex curved surfaces. In precision metal partsprocessing, milling is often used to manufacture complex part shapes.
- Drilling
Using a drill bit to drill the required holes on the work-pieceis a common hole processing method in precision metal partsprocessing and is often used to manufacture various hole structures.
Special Processing
- Wire Cutting
Using the principle of electric spark discharge for processing, it is suitable for processing complex shapes and parts that are difficult to process using traditional methods. Wire cutting has the advantages of high precision, high efficiency and low cost.
- Laser Cutting
Use a laser beam to cut the material with a high-energy laser beam to achieve precise cutting and part shape processing. Laser cutting has the advantages of fast cutting speed, high precision, and strong adaptability, and is suitable for processing various metal and non-metal materials.
Stamping Processing
The material undergoes a series of operations, including punching, pressing, and stretching, facilitated by a punch press and mold to create the desired concave and convex shapes, as well as holes in the components. In precision metal parts manufacturing, stamping is frequently employed to produce a variety of thin plate parts and components with intricate designs. The stamping process encompasses blanking, bending, stretching, and forming. The selection of the appropriate stamping technique can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of each part.
Other Processes
- Grinding and Polishing
Grinding and polishing the surface of parts using grinding machinery and polishing processes to make the surface smooth and bright, which helps to improve the appearance quality and corrosion resistance of parts.
- Coating and Electroplating
Forming a layer of paint or coating on the surface of parts through spraying or coating processes and forming a layer of metal plating on the surface of parts through electrochemical methods can increase the corrosion resistance and appearance quality of parts.
In addition, precision metal parts processing may also involve welding, heat treatment, assembly and other processes, which play an important role in the processing process and help ensure the overall quality and performance of parts.
Materials Requirements of Precision Metal Parts
Hardness Requirements
- Appropriate hardness
In the precision processing of metal parts, it is essential to consider the hardness of the materials used. The hardness must not surpass that of the parts being processed. As this could lead to damage to both the mechanical equipment and the work-piece. Conversely, if the material’s hardness is insufficiently low, it may adversely affect both the yield and precision of the final parts.
- Hardness Gradient
The material’s hardness should be moderate, ideally one level lower than that of the machine parts, to facilitate processing. Additionally, it is essential for the hardness of the material to be uniform in order to prevent significant hardness gradients, ensuring both processing accuracy and optimal part performance.
Corrosion Resistance
For precision metal parts that needs to work in harsh environments, such as parts in the automotive, aerospace and other fields, the material should have good corrosion resistance to extend the service life of the parts.
- Wear Resistance
Precision metal parts often needs to withstand greater friction and wear during use. So the material should have good wear resistance to ensure the long-term stable operation of the parts.
- Strength and Toughness
Precision metal parts needs to withstand certain loads and impact forces. So the material should have a certain strength and toughness to ensure that the parts are not easily deformed or broken when subjected to force.
Processing Performance
- Easy to process
The materials of precision metal partsshould be easy to process, including cutting, grinding, drilling and other processes. So as to manufacture high-precision parts.
- Heat treatment performance:
The material should have good heat treatment performance so that the performance of the material can be improved through heat treatment. Such as improving hardness, wear resistance, etc.
In summary, the material selection of precision metal parts needs to comprehensively consider the special requirements of multiple aspects to ensure the high precision, high performance and long-term stable operation of the parts.