Lance Tab
This tool is used to cut and raise a section of sheet metal, forming a hook or tab shape. Lance tabs are ideal for mechanical fastening, hanging, ventilation, clips, and stops.
If your design includes multiple small, simple bends, a single-hit punch tool may be the most cost-effective and efficient manufacturing method.
Single hit vs. progressive tooling: Single hit only
Bridge Lance
Bridge lances come in various shapes and sizes. While our in-house options are primarily single-bridge form-up tools, custom tooling can be made upon request. Unlike lance tabs, bridge lances use two points of contact with the sheet metal, creating a bridge-like feature.
Bridge lances are commonly used for decorative or functional purposes, such as clip attachments, airflow, cable pass-throughs, or fastening.
A bridge lance feature serves a similar purpose to TD (cable tie-mount) hardware available from PEM®.
Single hit vs. progressive tooling: Single hit only
Extrusion
Extrusions in sheet metal designs are made by pushing material through a die to form a raised shape. Common uses include electrical contact points, threaded holes, standoffs, and airflow or gas channels.
In production scenarios requiring higher volumes, extrusion and tapping can be an effective alternative to hardware insertion, leading to reduced part costs.
Single hit vs. progressive tooling: Single hit only
Half Shear
This tool partially cuts through the sheet metal, creating raised features or intentional material deformations. Half shears are useful for creating visual and physical markers for assembly processes, as parts can snap together or serve as alternatives to tabs or lances.
Single hit vs. progressive tooling: Single hit only