M2 Steel Ball Lock Regular Punches - Heavy Duty

These heavy-duty ball-lock punches are used in metric injection-molding tool builds where reliable blanking, trimming, and insert retention are required during high-frequency cycles. The ball-lock retention geometry helps resist punch walkout and maintains stable alignment under repeated pressing loads.

• Progressive die stations: Suited for sequential punching operations in metal-forming inserts used in tooling builds, helping keep the punch anchored while handling varying strip or part thickness.
• Automotive-style connector and bracket tooling: Ideal where consistent cavity/feature formation depends on tight process repeatability; the wear-resistant steel supports long service intervals.
• General precision punching: Recommended for production runs that demand uniform output and stable seating; multiple tip shapes (H, J, K, L, N, O, R, V, X, Y, Z) support different forming geometries.

The M2 steel variant is a strong fit when you want robust wear resistance for extended tooling life while retaining enough toughness for routine press loads.

Available in M2 and PS4, these punches are selected based on a trade-off between wear resistance and impact toughness for punching service. The M2 steel grade (commonly associated with AISI M2 high-speed steel) is used to enhance abrasive wear resistance and maintain edge integrity under repeated cycles.

Typical heat-treatment intent for M2 is quench and temper to achieve a high-hardness condition suitable for punching applications. Target hardness is commonly in the range of ~60–65 HRC for high-speed steel tooling (final values depend on the manufacturer’s process and the selected option).

• M2: higher wear resistance and hardness; expect reduced toughness compared with softer tool steels.
• PS4: selected when a balance toward toughness or alternative cost/performance is required for specific shop requirements.

For best results, match the material option to expected load severity and abrasive conditions; higher hardness generally improves life but can increase sensitivity to chipping under shock.

Use the listed ranges to match the punch to your die set and desired feature geometry. Start with the shank diameter D and select a size within 10–40 mm so the punch fits your guide/holder pocket and maintains stable alignment.

• Point length L1: choose within 10–19 mm, 13–25 mm, or 19–30 mm depending on required penetration depth into the work or insert stack-up.
• Punch length L: select within 63–125 mm, 71–125 mm, or 80–125 mm to ensure proper support above the bed and sufficient guidance for the stroke.
• Profile dimensions: match P (1.5–12 mm) and W (1.5–14 mm) to the cutting/blanking interface for the chosen tip shape.
• Corner detail R: set R = 0.2 mm per the specification to control corner radius in the formed feature.

Where your tooling requires precision fit, verify that holder/stripper dimensions accommodate the selected D and overall L; tolerance control typically depends on the mold base and punch guide design.