Metal stamping is a fabrication process used to create unique sheet metal designs. It entails using one or more stamping dies to shape the metal by cutting, piercing, or forming the metal in a certain way. It may involve a single process with at least one die, multiple sequential dies in one machine, or moving the metal material between dies across multiple machines in a process known as transfer stamping.
Regardless of the method used, metal stamping uses multiple techniques and materials, which is why you must find the right setup for your required metal stamping process.
Common Problems in Metal Stamping
Without the right setup, several potential metal stamping issues can arise, but they also have a variety of potential solutions. Knowing what these problems and solutions are will help keep the metal stamping process smooth, efficient, and cost-effective.
Here are some common metal stamping problems.
Poor-Quality Stamping
Low-quality stamping is one of the most common reasons for stamped sheet metal defects. Cracking is one of the biggest issues seen with poor-quality stamping, usually on the edges of stamped parts during cold and hot rolling. Poor-quality stampings can also have:
Inconsistent sizes
Scratches
Fewer holes
Deformations
More burrs
There are certain factors that result in poor-quality stampings, such as worn tools, improper tool design, inadequate maintenance, and selection of the wrong materials.
Tool Wear
Metal stamping issues could also involve tool wear, making it important to repair or replace equipment as needed. Over time, tools experience a degree of wear that renders them less efficient and effective, which can contribute to poor-quality stampings.
Some of the potential causes of tool wear include incorrect selection of materials, inadequate maintenance, and overusing the tools.
Material Selection
You must also select the right metal to use in your metal stamping process. Different types of metals come with different benefits and disadvantages, influencing their ability to meet certain performance requirements. For instance, you might need a durable and corrosion-resistant material like stainless steel for one application, whereas another application may benefit from using more lightweight aluminum to meet lower weight requirements.
If you neglect to choose the right materials for your metal stamping application, the process may result in premature tool wear, poor-quality stamping, and other potential problems.
Solutions to Issues in Metal Stamping
You can use the following solutions to help avoid the problems discussed above.
Proper Tool Design
Tools should have the proper designs and engineering behind them to prevent potential issues with wear and incompatibility with other equipment and workpieces. Proper tool design entails selecting the appropriate tool materials and geometries.
Correct Material Selection
You will need to select the right materials for each stamping process to prevent issues like poor-quality stamping. Consider materials based on the ideal properties the part should have, the part’s intended use, and the budget available to spend on stamping materials.
Regular Maintenance
Prevent potential tool wear and other common metal stamping issues by performing regular maintenance on equipment. Proper maintenance will involve regularly inspecting, lubricating, cleaning, and replacing any equipment if necessary. Through proper, consistent maintenance, you will expand the life of all equipment and minimize the risk of poor-quality stamping.
Appropriate Use
Reduce the risk of overuse in metal stamping by facilitating the proper use of all tools and other equipment. In addition to avoiding tool overload, be sure to use the right metal stamping techniques and refrain from using the tools for anything other than its intended use.
Metal Stamping Services From Manor Tool & Manufacturing Company
Choosing the right materials and techniques as well as properly maintaining stamping equipment can help you reduce the risk of potential issues. In turn, you’ll benefit from more efficient processes and high-quality metal stamping parts.
If you require help with your next metal stamping project, turn to the professionals at Manor Tool & Manufacturing Company. As an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer, we deliver precision metal stamping, deep drawn stamping, progressive die stamping, punching, bending, and more.
Recent research projects that the metal stamping market will experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.01% from 2022 to 2027. This represents a marked increase of $31.36 billion USD. This increase in demand is driven by technological breakthroughs in the automotive sector, as well as increased demand for consumer electronics. Metal stamping is widely used in the automotive industry, to construct hangers, brackets, side panels, bonnets, and other components. It is also a key manufacturing method for the telecoms industry, which is predicted to increase its demand for stamped products relating to 5G technology. Read on for a more in-depth look at the metal stamping market forecasts.
Global Metal Stamping Market Dynamic
The emergence of next-generation stamping technology is gaining traction on a global scale. The future of metal stamping will focus on minimizing the time and cost of production while increasing production capabilities that accommodate new product developments. Specifically, a growing demand for lightweight vehicles will shift the focus of auto component manufacturers.
Numerous end-user industries are currently experiencing rapid growth, and the global metal stamping market is also seeing a large opportunity in growing nations. This market expansion is fueled by metal stampings for surgical equipment and implantable devices, however, automotive, aerospace, consumer electronics, industrial machinery, and telecommunications industries are all increasing their demand for stamped components.
Key Metal Stamping Market Drivers
The many benefits of metal stamping are driving its market growth. As an automated process, metal stamping reduces labor costs and meets large production volume demands. Its ability to produce precise metal components quickly and cost-efficiently make it suitable for many diverse products and industries.
Additionally, metal stamping facilitates design flexibility, with its ability to handle tight tolerances and unique, customizable component configurations. These factors are expected to drive market growth during the forecast period.
Metal Stamping Market: Segmental Overview
Certain metal stamping processes and end-use applications are expected to see the largest growth during the forecast period. Specifically, blanking is expected to claim the largest revenue share among metal stamping processes. This is due to its accuracy and increased demand from the automotive sector. Blanking’s ability to accommodate mass product lines will also boost its growth in upcoming years.
Additionally, metal stamping demand from the aerospace and aviation industry is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to an increased focus on safety and the need to meet stringent quality standards. Metal stamping is also capable of producing the lightweight and adaptable components this industry needs to reduce fuel costs and weight.
Process and Application Insights
In upcoming years, end-use applications in the automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, and agriculture sectors are expected to see the most significant growth, with blanking and embossing predicted to be the most in-demand processes. Let’s take a closer look at the market predictions for these applications and processes.
Application Insights
Metal stamping application insights for the coming years can be segmented into four primary industries that will lead demand:
Automotive & Transportation: In 2021, the automotive sector accounted for over 35.5% of revenue for the metal stamping industry. Furthermore, the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers reported that in 2020, the production of heavy-duty trucks and LCVs reached 4.3 million and 17.2 million units respectively. High-volume production capabilities are expected to continue expanding market growth in this sector in the coming years.
Aerospace: Metal stamping is a durable and cost-effective method of manufacturing aerospace components like frames, channels, and ultra-lightweight parts. This combined with the growing production of fighter and commercial aircraft is expected to propel market growth in upcoming years.
Agriculture: Currently, various metal stamping companies are investing in research related to advanced stamping technology for agricultural equipment, such as agricultural automated processing systems. These developments are expected to boost market growth throughout the forecast period.
Telecommunications: For telecommunications products, the demand for stamped metal parts that provide enhanced durability is expected to increase, as well as high demand for premium products.
In addition to these focus areas, growing industrialization in emerging economies will increase the demand for industrial machinery-related products. Specifically, Brazil, South Africa, India, and China are predicted to increase global demand for metal-stamped components.
Process Insights
As an integral aspect of automotive manufacturing, blanking is expected to propel sector growth in upcoming years. This is largely due to its ability to accommodate mass production lines. In 2021, embossing was the second-largest process segment for the metal stamping industry, and its demand is expected to continue growing as well, due to its cost-efficiency and versatility.
Metal Stamping From Manor Tool & Manufacturing Company
With over 50 years of experience in metal stamping and hard tooling, Manor Tool & Manufacturing Company is a trusted source of high-quality stamped metal products. Whether you need a prototype or a high-volume production run, we can deliver a cost-effective solution that exceeds your expectations.
We review every part we produce to ensure continued quality and process reliability and perform maintenance on our in-house dies after every production run. To learn more about our capabilities, contact us or request a quote today.
Manor Tool & Manufacturing is passionate about meeting the needs of our clients, no matter how many components they need or how unique the end-use application is. Recently, we collaborated with the Chicago, IL, Taft High School robotics FRC team, the Mechanical Mustaches, to fabricate a component for their robot.
The Mechanical Mustaches had an upcoming regional competition in Wisconsin and needed to build a large and powerful robot. Manor Tool worked with the team to develop and fabricate a part that met all their performance requirements, with delivery that met their timeline requirements. The team’s instructor Anthony Schmidt said in an interview with the Technology & Manufacturing Association that their robot performed well in the Wisconsin FIRST® Regional.
Robotics FRC Team
The Mechanical Mustaches are an FRC team, which stands for FIRST® Robotics Competition. FIRST is a global organization that encourages students to build their technological and scientific skills. The acronym is an abbreviation of “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology.” The organization holds an annual international competition among high school students to build robots that compete in field events involving tasks like balancing on beams, holding onto bars, and other challenges.
To enter this competition, Taft High School’s robotics FRC team needed to build a robot that weighed up to 150 lbs and was upwards of 6 ft. tall. It required a significant amount of design and programming skills to bring the project to life, including a variety of high-quality stamped metal parts. After collaborating with Manor Tool to obtain a specialized component, the robot was completed and was fit to compete in this prestigious competition.
Metal Stamping with Robotic Automation from Manor Tool
At Manor Tool & Manufacturing Company, whether you need to develop a single part or a large production run, we can fabricate your component quickly and cost-effectively using our robotic automation tools. We deploy a robotic arm to automate the movement of stamped parts as they move among various machines during the fabrication process.
We used this technology during our project for the robotics FRC team. The process is as follows:
First, raw material is fed into a press for the initial metal stamping.
After the part is formed, it slides down a chute and is inspected by a vision system for accuracy.
Next, a robotic arm picks up the part and places it on the die in the second press where the final stamping is performed.
Finally, the robotic arm separates the finished part from the scrap material.
Our automation technology significantly reduces cycle times and allows us to produce as many as 500,000 stamped parts annually. For customers like the Mechanical Mustaches, it ensures they receive their part as fast as possible, and at a highly competitive price.
Metal Stamping from Manor Tool & Manufacturing Company
Since 1959, Manor Tool has been fabricating expertly-crafted metal components. We specialize in bending, punching, forming, and deep-drawn stampings as well as hard tooling. After every production run, we conduct die maintenance within our facilities and carry out inspections on every component to ensure reliability in the process and quality. You can learn more about our die maintenance process on our website. If you have any questions, reach out to our team.
The past year has presented several manufacturing challenges, from supply chain issues to labor shortages. At Manor Tool & Manufacturing company, we continue to provide a range of metal stamping services throughout these unpredictable times. From deep draw stamping, custom tooling, and fabrication to machining, design aid, and more, we can provide the services you need despite recent industry challenges and metal stamping trends.
What’s Going on With the Supply Chain?
Although the economy is beginning to heal from the COVID-19 pandemic, it has caused one major issue: disruption to the global supply chain. Worldwide lockdowns resulted in a decrease in demand; however, now that these lockdowns have lifted, demand for metal stamped components has increased tremendously. Because of the damage caused to the supply chain, manufacturers and distributors may face supply and production challenges.
Unfortunately, the supply chain may get worse before it gets better. With supply chain bottlenecks and widespread labor shortages, certain products and services may not be able to circulate normally until the summer of 2022.
The manufacturing industry has taken perhaps one of the biggest production and financial hits of all due to lagging shipments of parts and a dependence on international companies for different components. Supply chain issues have also led to higher prices and supply shortages within the metal market. Although metal prices are expected to recede in the near future, metal supply constraints may linger into 2022, posing challenges for metal stamping providers.
The Labor Shortage in Manufacturing
The manufacturing industry has experienced challenges with getting back up to speed. Although manufacturing activity has seen a recent increase in pace, labor shortages linger, inhibiting further capital and commercial growth.
Although the supply of experienced engineers is sufficient for manufacturing, manufacturing companies are short on labor and those who can work on the floor of facilities. Employers are having a hard time finding workers with the necessary skills, making it difficult to fill the many positions left open from the pandemic.
Despite this grim reality, manufacturers have managed to stay afloat, although it hasn’t been easy. This begs the question of whether a solution for the labor gap is in sight for the near future.
Can We Bridge the Labor Gap in Manufacturing?
With an abundance of open manufacturing positions, an essential question remains: Where can companies find employees to fill the gap?
One possible to solution is for manufacturing companies to partner with local schools and youth programs to scan potential talent. The younger generations are highly impressionable individuals whose interests in production and manufacturing may be peaked at an early stage.
Companies looking to ease their labor issues may be able to find consistent pipelines of talent in their local communities. From kids with engineering skills to youth program participants looking for hands-on employment opportunities, this grassroots effort may be a viable solution to the persisting labor challenge.
There are other small efforts manufacturing companies can make to potentially incentivize employment. Some of these steps may include keeping up with federal regulations, introducing technology, evaluating training, increasing workforce diversity, and providing optimal job benefits to employees.
The Future of Manufacturing
There is no doubt that various industries have suffered the impacts of COVID-19. Whether it’s permanent closure, financial uncertainties, or the need for adaptability, businesses have had to analyze the issue at hand and get creative with ways to offset the consequences.
Manor Tool & Manufacturing Company has pushed through the hard times to offer high-quality metal stamping services despite labor and supply chain challenges. To learn more about our services and metal stamping capabilities, browse our eBooks & Resource Library and sign up for our newsletter for consistent updates. For more information about how we mitigate supply chain issues to keep up with demand, contact us today.
Since Iron Man first appeared in Marvel Comics in 1963, comic book fans and engineers alike have wondered at the feasibility of an exoskeleton that could enhance human strength and abilities. Iron Man’s popularity has soared since the character was introduced into the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2008, and many fans have constructed their own Iron Man costumes with varying degrees of functionality. But what about the real thing?
The military has a long history of experimenting with fiction-inspired technologies, and the Iron Man suit didn’t escape their notice. The Pentagon’s Tactical Assault Light Operator Suit (TALOS) program was casually referred to in defense circles as the “Iron Man Suit” until the TALOS initiative shut down in 2019. The commercial sector has also pursued the development of powered mechanical suits, tracing back to General Electric’s failed Hardiman Suit program in the late 1960s.
As technologies like robotics, artificial intelligence, and wearable solutions continue to advance, efforts to build a real-life Iron Man suit will undoubtedly begin to show more promise. As they do, metal stamping will undoubtedly play a critical role in producing electronics and structural components used in Iron Man suits.
A Real-Life Iron Man Suit
A real-life Iron Man suit will require significant advances in the area of powered exoskeletons. A powered exoskeleton can be defined as a wearable machine that uses various electric motors, actuators, hydraulics, pneumatics, or other technologies to enhance the operator’s strength and endurance. Technologies have already emerged that establish a foundation for a future functional Iron Man suit:
Rex Bionics created a powered exoskeleton to help patients with neurological disorders and spinal cord injuries with rehabilitation exercises.
ReWalk robotics developed a wearable robotic exoskeleton that restores hip and knee mobility for people with spinal cord injuries.
Ekso Bionics has released a series of industrial exoskeleton products to help reduce injuries and improve lifting and material handling capabilities in manufacturing, construction, and other industrial settings.
Spoiler alert if you haven’t seen 2016’s Captain America: Civil War, but it’s worth noting that these suits don’t look so different from a fictional powered exoskeleton built by Tony Stark for his best friend, Colonel James Rhodes. After Rhodes incurred an injury that paralyzed him from the waist down, Tony Stark designed an exoskeleton that allowed him to walk again.
Materials for an Iron Man Suit
In the Iron Man movie, the original suit is built from old missile parts, which would contain the iron alloys that gave the suit its name. The second iteration of the suit used a chromed titanium-steel alloy that couldn’t handle atmospheric flight and caused the suit to nearly crash. Stark’s Mark III suit employs a titanium-gold alloy for its armor components.
Building a working Iron Man suit here in the real world will require the use of strong and lightweight materials—some which may not even exist yet. It’s worth noting, however, that Marvel may not have been too far off base with titanium-gold alloy. Research at Rice University created a titanium-gold alloy for use in artificial joints that is four times harder than steel.
Essentially, a real-world Iron Man suit will require a mix of materials that offer strength, durability, performance, and low weight. Other viable material options for some suit components may include aluminum alloys, fiberglass, carbon fiber, or carbon nanotube.
How Metal Stamping Could Contribute to Manufacturing Iron Man Suits
Medieval suits of armor were crafted by skilled blacksmiths using forging and forming techniques that would evolve into modern metal fabrication methods. While ancient metal fabricators relied on manual forging, cutting, and bending to create armor pieces, modern powered exoskeleton armor could leverage advanced metal stamping to achieve many of the same goals.
Metal stamping encompasses a variety of processes used to turn flat sheet metal into intricate design shapes. A metal stamping press offers a variety of capabilities, including bending, blanking, coining, deep drawing, punching, piercing, and much more. Many demanding industries already rely on metal stamping to create an expansive range of high-performance parts and components, including:
Aerospace
Aerospace manufacturers prefer metal stamping for its ability to create reliable parts and components from difficult high-performance sheet metals like titanium, aluminum alloys, and galvanized steel.
Automotive
Automotive OEMs turn to metal stampers to create structural components, chassis elements, and mechanical parts used in vehicles.
Electronics
Metal stamping produces critical electronics components used in robotics, Internet of Things solutions, smart technology, wearable technology, and virtual/augmented reality solutions.
Military and Defense
Metal stamping has long provided essential components for military and defense equipment, including brackets, bushings, clips, connectors, housings, EMI shielding, and much more.Given the demonstrated capabilities of this technology, it stands to reason that metal stamping will have a critical role to play in the production of powered exoskeletons at some point in the near future.
Waiting for the Avengers to Assemble at Manor Tool
While metal stamping sees broad use across numerous industries, it seems that Stark Industries may not have an urgent need to incorporate the process into manufacturing its Iron Man suits. However, the metal stamping sector stands ready to answer the call and fabricate essential parts and components to be used within the suits when the time comes.
In the meantime, Manor Tool provides advanced metal stamping and deep drawing capabilities for numerous industries. For more information, please view our portfolio of services, or feel free to contact us or request a quote today.
Since our founding in 1959, Manor Tool & Manufacturing has grown to become a leader in metal stamping. From prototyping to high-volume runs, we specialize in punching, bending, forming, and deep drawn stamping.
Over the last several years, and especially in the wake of COVID-19, many manufacturing companies have been reshoring their operations, bringing more careers in manufacturing back home to U.S. workers.
Begin Your Career in Manufacturing & Machining
Metal stamping is a fast, affordable process for creating complex metal components (and replicating those results precisely for hundreds or millions of units) for applications in a variety of industries. There are several techniques that can be used to achieve a desired result.
Metal stamping requires the use of tools and dies to form the metal—and that requires a tool and die maker. Lee Simeone, the founder of Manor Tool, was a tool and die maker prior to founding Manor Tool. It’s an important role that requires a highly trained individual to do the following tasks:
Use CAD and CAM technology
Check all measurements and tolerances
Operate manual and CNC tools
Inspect tools for defects and test them to ensure they perform correctly
Adjust parts to ensure they fit correctly
Becoming a tool and die maker generally starts with on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. It can be helpful to take courses in math and metal working, and there are vocational and community colleges that offer two-year degrees in machining or tool and die making. If you take on-the-job training, the process will likely include a full work week, where you start with simpler projects and progress to more advanced assignments. This is often accompanied by specific technical training in the evening or on the weekends. After a year or more of that type of paid training, your career is launched, and you’ll enjoy your full machinist salary.
Typically, the salary of a tool and die maker can average between $29 – 33.50/hour. For those who choose a more scaled-down role as a metal stamper, ZipRecruiter reports an average salary of $27,000. It’s important to note that experience, schooling, and training, as well as the employer you work for, may influence your salary.
“Stamp” Your Place at Manor Tool!
Careers in manufacturing are a great way to have a positive impact on the economy and within your community. It’s an exciting line of work that uses the latest technology and materials, and every day you’re face-to-face with the results of your hard work: tangible products that are essential to critical industries like medical and defense. You can hone your skills and follow a clear career path to success. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to grow as a professional as the industry changes, new technology comes available, and the company pivots to meet consumer demand.
Despite a difficult past, manufacturing jobs are safer than ever, thanks to automation, advances in technology, and growing awareness and commitment to employee safety throughout the industry. Employees receive the training and equipment they need to protect themselves and their fellow workers, and safety protocols are strictly followed in our facility.
Now is the time to pursue a manufacturing career, and Manor Tool is hiring! Take a look at our current openings, and check back regularly for updates and new positions. If you’re passionate about the future of U.S. manufacturing and are interested in an exciting career with us, we hope to hear from you. Contact us with any questions you have about metal stamping, and apply today!
With more than 60 years of experience, Manor Tool & Manufacturing has become a trusted metal stamping and fabrication provider, specializing in deep-drawn stamping and progressive die stamping services using steel, aluminum, brass, and many other materials. From prototyping to high-volume production runs, we manage even the most complex projects at competitive prices. Through the years, we’ve grown and adapted to a number of the metal markets and fabricating trends and technological advancements, and 2021 will be no different.
Here’s a closer look at what we’re anticipating for the industry and in the metal markets this year.
What’s Affecting the Steel Market for Fabricators in 2021?
Steel took a dive with the rest of the economy when COVID-19 hit last year, but it made a remarkable recovery by December. At about $900 per ton, the cost had doubled in just four months and continued its rise to reach a record high in January.
This price jump occurred due to high demand and short supply. Steel mills dramatically slowed production during the second quarter of 2020. Many businesses were forced to shut down during this period and U.S. steel producers haven’t all ramped up sufficiently to meet the growing demand for steel as of yet. Meanwhile, high tariffs enacted before the pandemic make it challenging to import steel, leaving many companies without a source.
Demand for steel is expected to remain high. The economy as a whole is rebounding more quickly than expected, and steel is needed for automotive production, infrastructure projects, construction, consumer goods, and many other industries currently experiencing demand spikes. We expect prices to remain high until the mills can produce enough steel to balance the demand. While there are several mills in the process of expanding their capabilities – which will add more than 7 million tons of steelmaking capacity to the market – we likely won’t see the results of that until the end of the year, or even into 2022.
While there is some concern that a massive increase in steel availability could cause the price to drop sharply, it’s likely that even that much additional steel won’t outpace the growing demand. Prices could remain high for several more months at least. There are several other factors at play, as well:
Steel users may seek alternate material options
Low import levels
Potential changes to trade policies and tariffs with new administration
A Review & Forecast of Aluminum
Though aluminum hit a four-year low in April — another slump attributed to diminished production during the pandemic — it has been on a generally upward trajectory ever since. Aluminum manufacturing in the U.S. is expected to rise 2.3 percent, while worldwide demand is expected to grow by 4.5 percent this year. Much of the global demand comes from China during their post-lockdown growth in construction and infrastructure. Trade restrictions between the United States and China are likely to continue in some form for the time being, which will impact the supply and cost of aluminum for U.S. buyers.
About Manor Tool
Undoubtedly, 2021 will present challenges and opportunities for the metal fabrication industry as indicated by the unpredictability of the metal markets. With our years of experience, extensive capabilities, and dedicated team of skilled professionals, Manor Tool will be here to meet your metal stamping needs with precise, cost-effective solutions in our 44,000-square-foot, ISO 9001:2015-certified facility.
Please contact us or request a quote to learn more about our extensive metal stamping and fabrication capabilities.
It looks to be an exciting year ahead for the metal stamping industry. The market grew steadily in 2020, and it’s expected to see continued increases through 2026 as demand for precise metal stamped products increases. Through the challenges that this year presented, Manor Tool has been proud to serve the manufacturing and fabrication needs of a diverse group of clients. We look forward to continuing these relationships in 2021.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Metal Stamping
The pandemic left its mark on all aspects of manufacturing, encompassing supply chain disruptions, massive demand changes, and operational changes to support social distancing and other safety measures. It’s been a year of uncertainty, and all businesses have been forced to take one day at a time and pivot to meet the ever-changing circumstances.
The industry was already facing challenges from unstable international trade relations when pandemic-related shutdowns started changing demand. With less construction and air travel, for example, there has been less need for certain metal components. As businesses deemed “non-essential” temporarily shut their doors, manufacturers lost many of their customers. Conversely, manufacturers of essential goods found themselves overwhelmed with orders for personal protective equipment, medical and testing equipment, and more.
As companies adapted to meet these challenges, they’ve hit fast-forward on the adoption of certain technologies and innovations that are likely here to stay. The metal stamping forecast includes two big changes:
Manufacturers will rely more heavily on data to guide strategic planning
With remote access capabilities for machinery, the location of many skilled workers will matter less moving forward
The technology for these advancements has been around for a while, but the upfront costs of comprehensive software and hardware changes have previously been difficult to justify. In light of COVID-19, many manufacturers will be adopting new technologies sooner rather than later.
What to Look for in 2021
Metal stamping trends in 2021 will be driven largely by low material costs and an ever-growing need for the type of intricate, lightweight parts that make airplanes and automobiles more fuel efficient without sacrificing safety. Increasing competition in the industry will fuel innovation, even in these challenging times.
The metal stamping forecast is promising. For aerospace and defense metal stamping alone, growth (according to Meticulous Market Research, Ltd.) has been projected at a CAGR of 4.6% through 2027, ultimately reaching $33.6 billion by the end of that period. Although COVID-19 has heavily impacted the aerospace industry, this sector has been on an upswing in recent years that will continue as we move beyond the pandemic. Many older aircraft are being replaced by planes featuring the latest fuel-efficient, sound-reducing technology. Clips, connectors, and fasteners for assembly and signal, communications, and power systems are expected to drive the greatest demand for metal stampers.
Steel also hopes to make a comeback by 2021, perhaps with lower prices. Though steel prices are currently rising after taking a hit over the summer, they’re expected to reach their peak and decrease moving into 2021.
To take the temperature of the industry, the Steel Market Update (SMU) polls steel buyers on a regular basis to see how they’re feeling about the market. SMU’s Future Sentiment poll has shown that steel buyers remain optimistic about the future of the steel sector.
Metal Stamping Services From Manor Tool
At Manor Tool, we’re excited about the metal stamping forecast and how we can contribute to the industry in 2021 and beyond. With six decades of experience, we offer the highest quality deep-drawn stamping, punching, bending, forming, and more. We’re dedicated to staying on top of metal stamping trends to deliver the products our clients need and want.
The metal stamping industry is gearing up for a bright future. In 2018, the worldwide value of the industry was more than $224 billion. That number is expected to show steady growth as metal stamping becomes more common—and necessary—in a variety of industries. Sheet metal is especially in demand within the automotive industry, particularly for transmission and structural components, as well as urbanization projects in developing countries.
These and other metal stamping trends are driving an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% by 2025.
What are the Metal Stamping Trends to Look For in 2020?
Sheet metal is used in many industries, all of which contribute to the growth of metal stamping in 2020 and beyond. Some of the factors influencing this growth include strong international trade, urbanization, and disposable income. Metal forming within the automotive industry alone is expected to see a CAGR of 2.83% by 2025, reaching a worldwide value of more than $269 billion, and the electronics industry is poised for growing demand for metal stamping, as well.
Automotive
The pressure is on automakers to design affordable, fuel-efficient vehicles. Consumers want to save on fuel costs—and support sustainability—without going beyond their means to buy a vehicle. Meanwhile, with larger cities and increased urbanization in developing countries, there are more consumers looking for vehicles.
This demand for innovation calls for blanking, embossing, bending, coining, and flanging for components used in passenger cars, as well as both light and heavy commercial vehicles around the world. Sales forecasts for new vehicles are promising, and metal stamping allows manufacturers to uphold safety standards and control costs while continuing to improve automobile efficiency.
Aerospace
2018 predictions for US aerospace production showed a 2.9% growth in 2018, with 3.4% growth in both 2019 and 2020. The expected annual growth for the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, and Japan combined is 3.1% in 2019 and 2020.
Even after a couple of slow years—which actually included a decline in aerospace growth in the U.S.—these predictions were made with consideration to the low cost of fuel, production plans from Boeing and Airbus, the strength of global trade, and trucking fleets that will be required to move products within countries and across borders.
Given the increased interest and development in space travel, there is additional need for durable, lightweight components of all shapes and sizes.
Industrial
Stamped components are used extensively in manufacturing and the maintenance of a variety of machines. Furthermore, sheet metal isn’t the only material being used in these machine components. Additional materials, like carbon fiber, may be used within the manufacturing industry and across many other industries, contributing to the demand for stamping.
Electronics
Consumer electronics may become the fastest-growing application for metal stamping due to increases in disposable income. As people find themselves with more money to spend, they turn to the ever-increasing availability of innovative electronics to make their lives more convenient and more enjoyable. Metal is used in this industry for impact resistance, helping to increase the lifespan of the final product.
Custom Metal Stamping Services from Manor Tool & Manufacturing
Manor Tool and Manufacturing is proud to contribute to the strength of America’s manufacturing and industrial sectors as we work with a variety of businesses to create high-quality components in the USA. With decades of experience, our services cover a wide range of metals, and we specialize in medium- and high-volume production runs. We work to develop lasting relationships with our clients—we’re happy to work with you to meet your needs, no matter how large or complicated your project is. We bring our experience, passion, and commitment to every project.
We offer custom tooling and fabricating services, including deburring, drilling, and machining as secondary support services. Contact us to learn more about our custom metal stamping services and how Manor Tool and Manufacturing can help your business.
What to Look for in 2021