TiCN Coated Punches with Key Grooves

Punches with key grooves are used in die sets where repeatable positional stability is critical. In progressive and transfer tooling, the single-stepped shank with a key groove mounting helps lock the punch location against drift during successive station cycles, supporting consistent shearing and clean part outlines.

• Automotive connector and bracket stamping: The TiCN-coated working face improves abrasion resistance under high cycle loads, helping maintain edge geometry when punching steel and coated sheet materials.
• Electronics housings and thin-gauge metal parts: Use the variable tip shapes (A, D, R, E, G) to match specific cut profiles, while the keyed shank supports alignment across die-set build-ups.
• Appliance and metal fabrication dies: The stepped shank design is suited for multi-station die sets that require reliable orientation during setup and rework.

This variant is especially suited because the TiCN coating targets wear at the punching interface and the key groove supports repeatable seating and alignment.

Two material options are specified for this punch series: powdered high-speed steel and SKH51. SKH51 is a high-speed steel grade commonly used for cutting tools, offering a strong balance of hardness, wear resistance, and toughness for punching applications.

• Powdered high-speed steel: Typically selected for improved uniformity and surface wear performance under repetitive cutting.
• SKH51 (HSS): Used where stable hardness and good abrasion resistance are required; the trade-off is that higher hardness can reduce impact toughness if the punching system sees severe shock or misalignment.

The working surface is TiCN coated, which increases abrasion resistance at the tip. The input data does not specify an exact post-heat-treatment hardness (HRC) or a detailed heat-treatment route; selection should be confirmed against the supplier’s processing documentation for the chosen material state (e.g., quenched & tempered for HSS or manufacturer-specific practice).

Select the punch size by matching the shank diameter, tip geometry, and key groove location to the corresponding die-set features. The shank diameter D is specified as 3 to 16 mm, with a diameter tolerance of +0.005/0 and fit class m5; ensure the punch seats correctly in the die block bore with that fit.

• Tip shape: Choose A, D, E, G, or R to match the required cutting profile. Tip dimensions include P = 1 to 10 mm, W = 1 to 5 mm, and R (corner radius) = 0.15 mm.
• Tip length (B): Available as L, S, or X depending on the required penetration and clearance.
• Overall and head dimensions: Use L = 40 to 70 mm and full-length alteration ranges such as LC = 32 ～ 79.9, 32 ～ 99.9, 27 ～ 99.9, or 27 ～ 79.9 to align with press stroke and die thickness stack-up.

Also verify T (key groove position) = 5.1 ～ 80 (or up to 5.1 ～ 100 depending on variant) so the keyed alignment matches the die’s corresponding orientation feature.