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Embossing operations are commonly used in sheet metal, and vary in purpose and function. Mounting locations or stand-offs in electrical cabinets, architectural design treatments and strengthening ribs are just some of the ways an emboss may be used. Occasionally, there isn’t a large enough station in the turret to accommodate the emboss tool or the shape exceeds the design parameters of the desired station.

Non-spring loaded forming tools allow for greater flexibility in you embossing operations, which is why they are ideal for these situations. A larger form can fit into a smaller station because there is no need to allow room for the spring and stripper. Non-spring-loaded tools may be form up or form down. The side angles need to be a minimum of 45 degrees to come out of the tool. Shallow forms are also an ideal application because spring loaded stripping is not needed and doesn’t provide a benefit. Certain cold-forged emboss tools may also be ordered as non-spring loaded, so you’ll need to contact your Mate Application Specialist for information. Mate non-spring-loaded forming tools are available in all tooling styles and station sizes.

Non-spring loaded tools may also come with a cost advantage, which varies depending on the shape or tool style. The one downside is that in upform applications, a non-spring loaded forming tool may cause more scratches on the bottom of the sheet because it is not sliding over a stripper with rounded edges.

While we’re on the subject of emboss tools, be sure to check out two of our forming tool galleries on our website: Emboss Tools, and Logos and Numbering. You will see examples of all kinds of emboss tools, both spring-loaded and non-spring-loaded versions, While not all of the examples shown in the gallery are non-spring-loaded variety, you will see what’s possible with your punch press.