What Is a Hydraulic Hole Puncher?
A hydraulic hole puncher is a tool designed for drilling holes, powered by a hydraulic pump. Ideal for creating larger holes, this tool is available in both manual and electric models. Due to its hydraulic operation, it requires less physical effort and is capable of drilling holes in materials such as mild steel and stainless steel. It can be used on various steel forms, including flat bars, equal-sided angles, grooved steel, ripped grooved steel, and H-shaped steel.
The manual version is suitable for steel up to 3.2 mm in thickness and offers greater portability. In contrast, the electric version provides more power for thicker steel.
Uses of Hydraulic Hole Punchers
Hydraulic hole punchers are commonly used in electrical construction for drilling holes in distribution boards, pull boxes, and piping. They offer a quicker and less strenuous drilling process compared to traditional drills, making them popular in equipment construction and increasingly in DIY projects. For larger diameter holes or applications requiring portability, the manual puncher is preferred. However, for thicker steel, the electric puncher’s additional power is advantageous.
Principle of Hydraulic Hole Punchers
Hydraulic hole punchers drill holes in mild steel or stainless steel plates using hydraulic pressure. A punch and die are positioned against the steel plate, and hydraulic force is applied to create the hole.
The steel plate is set perpendicular to the punch for an even application of force. Various punches and dies are available for different hole shapes and sizes. They should be selected based on the specific requirements of the steel’s thickness and the desired hole.
In electric models, pressing the switch advances the piston, causing the attached punch to gradually deform and shear the steel plate. In manual models, repetitive handle movements achieve this shearing. The punch creates the hole following the shape of the mounted die, with debris accumulating inside the die.
With electric models, precautions are necessary to prevent ignition, explosion, or electric shock. It’s also important to avoid entanglement with clothing and not to block the cooling vents.