In-House Capability
Metal Punching
From the simple to the intricate, SPM’s Punching Department is here to meet your metal punching and forming needs.
Request a QuoteOverview
What we do, who we do it for
From the simple to the intricate, SPM’s Punching Department is here to meet your metal punching and forming needs. Our precision automation and tooling will give you the accurate parts you need at a competitive cost. Metal punching is the most efficient and cost-effective method for adding holes and forms in parts. The sheet metal is positioned between a punch and a corresponding die, and when the punch presses downwards into the die, the metal between them is sheared away.
Punch machines are able to create holes in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and if a specific shape is needed then a corresponding die can be used. Custom hole sizes can also be created through a process known as “nibbling”, where smaller holes are punched closely together to create customized shapes. The process of metal punching is extremely fast compared to laser cutting the same holes and forms. Because of this, metal punching is ideal for large runs of parts that contain lots of features.
Equipment & Process
High-feature parts, punched at speed
Formed features
At SPM, we have the capability to produce high numbers of quality parts with intricate features and hole patterns. Our machines can produce a variety of holes, countersinks, embossments, louvers, and other formed features. Custom hole sizes are created through nibbling, where smaller holes are punched closely together to form customized shapes without a dedicated die.
Automated turrets
We have automated turrets which can process complex parts with high-speed precision, which lowers costs and lead times. All of our metal punching machines and punch/laser combo machines have loading towers with multiple shelves to store materials and sheets, which allow for extended Lights Out Manufacturing runs.
Specifications
Capability matrix
Quick-scan parameters for metal punching projects. Contact us for project-specific tolerances and material capabilities beyond these ranges.
| Parameter | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Aluminum, steel, stainless steel | Specialty alloys on request |
| Formed features | Holes, countersinks, embossments, louvers | Custom shapes via nibbling |
| Best fit | Large runs, high feature count | Faster than laser for the same features |
| Automation | Automated turrets, loading towers | Extended Lights Out Manufacturing runs |
| Certifications | ISO 9001 | Certified company-wide |
Equipment Spotlight
On the punching floor
Automation
Automated turrets
Automated turrets process complex parts with high-speed precision, lowering costs and lead times. Loading towers with multiple shelves store materials and sheets so punching and punch/laser combo machines can run extended Lights Out Manufacturing.
Punched Detail
Formed features
A single setup can produce holes, countersinks, embossments, louvers, and other formed features — plus custom shapes nibbled without a dedicated die.
Industries We Serve
Where SPM’s punched parts land
Industrial Automation
Cobot enclosures, robot bases, and integrator cell components.
Learn more →Cloud & Data Storage
Hyperscale server racks, data center cabinets, and networking equipment chassis.
Learn more →Electrical & Electronics
NEMA enclosures and populated panels with passive devices in-house.
Learn more →Oil, Gas & Energy
Field equipment skids, control panels, and rugged enclosures.
Learn more →HVAC & Commercial
Sheet metal cabinets, plenums, and chassis for commercial HVAC equipment.
Learn more →Test Systems & Equipment
Fixtures, frames, and enclosures for bench and production test.
Learn more →Related Capabilities
Pairs well with
Precision Laser Cutting
Fiber laser cutting for highly complex parts, precise dimensions, and intricate shapes — with nesting to maximize sheet utilization.
Explore →Metal Forming
Automated press brake technology, automatic tool-changing equipment, and experienced operators for complex, tight-tolerance parts.
Explore →Powder Coating
Fully conveyer-operated finishing with six-stage pre-treatment for durable, attractive coatings.
Explore →FAQ
Frequently asked
What is metal punching best suited for?
What features can SPM punch?
How does SPM create custom hole shapes?
Does SPM offer Lights Out Manufacturing on the punching line?
Have a project to quote?
Send us your specs. We’ll respond within one business day.