Cutting Rectangular Holes In Sheet Metal

A machine called a nibbler uses a small straight punch to create the same geometric removal of sheet metal as that of a larger more complicated punch.

Cutting rectangular holes in sheet metal.

Https amzn to 2mkd0sj large screw driver. At first locate the center of the whole. Stud driven rectangular hole punches these punches make openings for a variety of panel switches and connectors. Drill pilot holes slightly larger than the size of the stud.

Be that as it may here is a neat idea from flyboy accessories for cutting larger holes in sheet metal. Https amzn to 2ndf97w the best tin aviation snips. In response to a question about h. You could also cut the hole with a jigsaw.

A nibbler will do a nice job if you get one that can handle the thickness of your metal. This will create dimples in the sheet. Measure from the edges of the sheet metal to the point at which you wish to place the hole. Punches for the cutting of holes and profiles in sheet metal may come in many different shapes and sizes.

I don t mind a quick file to smooth sharp edges but to cut the whole hole with a file is too time consuming and labor intensive and not accurate. You could use a square punch but it s a bit spendy. My idea is to get a standard 1 3 square punch and then punch two holes side by side to get my desired 1 3 x 2 3 rectangle but that could produce a crooked rectangle if the squares are not lined up. Create a raised edge in sheet metal that locks into the rolled edge of another piece.

Https amzn to 2kstzae sheet metal hammer. Next use a compass to outline the edge of the hole. Use your center punch to strike at the center of the hole. Position the pattern on the sheet metal where the hole needs to go and draw a line around it using a permanent marker.

Also known as chassis and panel punches they cut through sheet metal and have an automatic centering design for accurate alignment. I guess i ve got holes on the brain lately as i am finishing up the hole wizard for the g wizard conversational cnc product. It s meant for creating lightening holes of the type seen when building aircraft or maybe just toolboxes and furniture that are built like wwii fighter planes. Now it s time to use that center punch.

It does this by rapidly punching many overlapping holes to make the larger cut profile. Step 1 create a paper pattern of the size and shape of hole you wish to cut.