Actions
Punching
Punching is a common mechanical process in metal fabrication that involves applying power to a slide or ram to perform tasks such as blanking, drawing, or stamping. This action typically involves forcing a punch through the material and into a die to create holes or shapes.
Key Features of Punching Actions
The key features of punching actions include the following:
- The punching process presents significant safety hazards, especially at the point of operation where the stock is manually inserted, positioned, and removed.
- The types of injuries that may occur due to punching actions include crushing injuries, amputations, and hand trauma including fractures, lacerations, and severe bruising from accidental contact.
- Risks of injuries are heightened by the speed and force involved in punching operations.
Examples
- Power Presses: These machines use a powered ram to punch holes or form shapes in sheet metal or similar materials.
- Hazard: An operator reaches in to adjust the material and the ram descends unexpectedly, resulting in a finger amputation.
- Best Practice: Use presence-sensing devices or two-hand controls to keep hands away from the danger zone during operation.
- Iron Workers: These are versatile machines used for punching, shearing, and notching metal.
- Hazard: A worker manually aligns a large piece of steel for punching, but misalignment causes the piece to shift, crushing the operator’s hand.
- Best Practice: Use mechanical feeds or clamps to secure material, and ensure the machine is equipped with guards to prevent hand access to the point of operation.
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1-8. What happens during the punching process in metal fabrication?
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