Tricks of the Trade
 Q: I am having trouble with sheet distortion using a cluster tool on our thick turret punch press. Is there anything that can be done to reduce this distortion?
A: Sheet distortion is a problem that can be quite costly in multiple ways. It can cause rejections, multiple operations, or scrap if a corner catches the upper turret and folds up.
There are a number of ways to deal with distortion when using a cluster punch. Distortion can be controlled somewhat by some or all of the following methods:
1. Fine tuning your punching pattern – consider a random punch pattern rather than sequential.
2. Make sure the tooling is sharp.
3. Back bend the sheet between the die and stripper to reduce distortion by 30-80%. Consult your Sales Engineer or the Wilson Tool sales desk for this solution to your sheet distortion problems.
The photograph shows a part that was produced using a cluster tool. The die and stripper were modified to virtually eliminate any sheet distortion.
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