The WZL machine tool laboratory at RWTH Aachen University is on the road to success with its joint research into enabling the use of carbide punches in hard metal fine blanking!

In cooperation with the strategic research network for international and innovative companies from the fineblanking and stamping technology as well as related industries, better known as the Fineblanking Working Group (AKF), it has been possible to significantly improve the manufacturing and performance of tungsten carbide punches for fine blanking of high-strength sheet steel.

In contrast to the machining of conventional high-speed steels, the surface integrity of carbide is particularly important. In order to avoid chipping of the cutting edge and to maximize the wear resistance, high edge stability is critical. The cutting edges were strategically rounded at the WZL machine tool lab using a Gerber BP Smart brush polishing machine. 

It is a pleasure for us when the Gerber technology in edge preparation can be shared with metalworking industries. This success story ensures optimum cutting-edge stability and tool life.

Find out more about the successful cooperation of the fineblanking working group in the press information of RWTH Aachen University: