SECURING PUNCH FOR CUT OFF
TECTIP No. 002


SUBJECT:    Securing Punch for cutoff       
APPROVAL:    Ken Baeszler
PREPARED BY:    Doug Nelson
SYSTEM TYPE:    wirecut EDM


OBSERVATIONS:   

When cutting off a punch, it usually falls and shorts out on block, causing burn marks on the side of the punch surface. Traditionally this “cutoff” area is referred to as a “glue stop”, since many users actually glue a small piece of material between the punch and the surrounding stock.  It is not always possible, or practical, to secure a punch this way.  The actions listed below can be used as an alternative.
 
ACTIONS:     

• Take a business card and cut off a section about .175” wide.  Then make a second cut to give it some taper (see photo).
• Insert pieces into wired kerf, wet and let stand for a few minutes; paper will expand and hold punch securely.
• Proceed to cut off punch retaining tab.

Note: These actions are most effective when using .010” to .013” diameter wire.