Polyurethane Metal Forming
PSI Urethanes is a leading manufacturer of cast urethane for metal forming press systems. Urethane is the chosen material due to its many benefits for metal forming applications:
- Scuff Resistance
- Secures the blank from slipping
- Improved forming definition
- Custom formulations
Urethane and High Forming Pressures
Many metal workers who have tried metal forming pads made with rubber have been disappointed because they cannot stand up to pressure the way urethane pads can. Urethane is very durable and can withstand high forming pressures to produce more intricate shapes and maintain an unvarying level of productivity.
In addition, the even pressure applied by urethane forming pads prevents thin metal from crimping. On thicker metal, the toughness of polyurethane makes it more durable than other materials. The ability of urethane to stretch is what makes it the choice for deep-draw metal forming.
Urethane Metal Forming Pads
For metalworking processes, sheet metal is pressed between a die and a forming pad, which is connected to a hydraulic press. A rigid lower die, often called a form block, provides the mold for forming the sheet metal. Under pressure, the forming pad molds the sheet metal into the shape of the die thus forming the part.
Thermoset urethane is an excellent option for forming pads used in hydraulic forming presses. Urethane has a better reputation than rubber when working with metal, regardless of thickness. It has elastomeric properties that exert pressure more evenly across the sheet metal being formed. Urethane’s shape-memory enables it to return to its original shape after forming, allowing for greater production and a part with higher definition.
Urethane can also be custom formulated for specific properties such as rebound and resistance to compression set which increases the life of the product. In addition, because the urethane forming pad can be used with separate lower dies, the process is relatively inexpensive and flexible.
Leaders in the Industry
As you can see, premium-grade urethane sheeting or metal forming pads provide many benefits in metal forming applications including:
- Extended fluid cell and forming pad life
- Improved forming definition
- Local forming pressure intensification
As the leading manufacturer of cast urethane for metal forming press systems, PSI has a flawless history of mechanical integrity. Our urethane metal forming pads and urethane filler blocks can be created in any color or durometer (hardness) for your specific needs.
Urethane metal forming products and pads are used in a wide range of industries, including: Aerospace, Aviation, General metal forming, Automotive industries, Hydraulic presses, Fluid cell forming presses. To improve the stamina & durability of your metal forming machinery, contact PSI Urethanes today.
Explore other Industries
We produce the highest quality custom urethane parts, offer a wide variety of cast polyurethane products, and can also create prototypes from your drawings or sketches.
1 /
Food Processing
PSI manufactures FDA approved urethane products for food processing applications.…
2 /
Metal Forming
PSI Urethanes is a leading manufacturer of cast urethane for metal forming press…
3 /
Military
We manufacture custom molded parts, polyurethane sheets, and bond to metal for the…
4 /
Die Cutting
Our quality and accuracy in keeping close tolerances make our company sought out…
5 /
Fluid Cell Remold
For industries that depend on highly complex parts to keep their equipment functioning,…
6 /
OEM's
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) utilize PSI Urethanes’ manufacturing expertise…
7 /
Marine
PSI Urethanes is a leading manufacturer of cast and molded urethane for the marine…
8 /
Process Automation
From rollers and bumpers to assembly systems and material handling, urethane is a…
9 /
Automotive
PSI Urethanes is a leading manufacturer of cast and molded urethane for the automotive…
Ask Our Experts.
Contact us today to learn how we can meet your project’s requirements.