Top 5 Materials for Sheet Metal Stamping

Steel alloys are dense, strong, and fairly versatile. These are just a few of the reasons they are often used in sheet metal stamping projects. They are also generally fairly cost effective, as far as sheet metal stamping materials go. Some steel alloys, like stainless steel, have additional advantageous properties, like corrosion resistance.

Copper alloys are not as strong as steel alloys, so they aren’t often chosen for structural support applications, but they also have several characteristics that make them ideal for a wide array of sheet metal stamping projects. Copper alloys are corrosion resistant; they are very malleable and ductile; they can conduct both heat and electricity; they are easy to sanitize; they are very resistant to certain types of environmental damage; and on top of all of that, they are aesthetically pleasing.

Aluminum alloys are very popular for sheet metal stamping applications. They have a lot of the strength of steel alloys, but they are lightweight. They have the conductivity and corrosion resistance of copper alloys, but they are more durable. Aluminum alloys are typically more expensive than steel alloys, but many find that the extra cost is well worth it, as aluminum alloys are just so well-suited to so many sheet metal stamping projects.

Brass is a zinc and copper alloy that is often used in sheet metal stamping projects. It is very malleable, and can be easily formed into complex shapes. It is also fairly strong, and has a smooth, corrosion resistant surface. It is great for both functional and decorative purposes.

Titanium can be a difficult material to work with when it comes to sheet metal stamping, but it is very strong and has incredible durability. Titanium is more expensive than many other metals, but it is also able to withstand extreme environments, which makes it the perfect choice for applications in the aerospace, nuclear, and marine industries.