Cutting Rectangular Holes In Sheet Metal

This will create dimples in the sheet.

Cutting rectangular holes in sheet metal.

Also known as chassis and panel punches they cut through sheet metal and have an automatic centering design for accurate alignment. Be that as it may here is a neat idea from flyboy accessories for cutting larger holes in sheet metal. Create a raised edge in sheet metal that locks into the rolled edge of another piece. Https amzn to 2mkd0sj large screw driver.

Use your center punch to strike at the center of the hole. Next use a compass to outline the edge of the hole. Sheet metal hole flaring dies create flares around already cut holes in sheet metal up to 3 16 thick to make the edges stronger and more rigid. Also known as dimple dies.

I guess i ve got holes on the brain lately as i am finishing up the hole wizard for the g wizard conversational cnc product. Drill pilot holes slightly larger than the size of the stud. Punches for the cutting of holes and profiles in sheet metal may come in many different shapes and sizes. In response to a question about h.

Https amzn to 2ndf97w the best tin aviation snips. A machine called a nibbler uses a small straight punch to create the same geometric removal of sheet metal as that of a larger more complicated punch. It does this by rapidly punching many overlapping holes to make the larger cut profile. Position the pattern on the sheet metal where the hole needs to go and draw a line around it using a permanent marker.

You could also cut the hole with a jigsaw. Measure from the edges of the sheet metal to the point at which you wish to place the hole. I don t mind a quick file to smooth sharp edges but to cut the whole hole with a file is too time consuming and labor intensive and not accurate. My idea is to get a standard 1 3 square punch and then punch two holes side by side to get my desired 1 3 x 2 3 rectangle but that could produce a crooked rectangle if the squares are not lined up.

Https amzn to 2kstzae sheet metal hammer. A nibbler will do a nice job if you get one that can handle the thickness of your metal. At first locate the center of the whole. Stud driven rectangular hole punches these punches make openings for a variety of panel switches and connectors.

Put your ink to the use and mark the hole center. Now it s time to use that center punch.