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Source for small D-Shape chassis punch?

wb2vsj

Hot Rolled
Joined
Apr 19, 2010
Location
Apex, North Carolina - USA
I need to make about 8 holes for some Pomona Binding posts. The posts are D-shaped to prevent rotation. Greenlee's are too big, can't find any on McMaster (not sure I would want to buy one after seeing some of the prices for this small job)

Is there a simple way to make one? Chassis material is 24ga steel.

Thanks, Walt
 

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Do you know anyone with an EDM that can cut or sink out a punch and die set for you? possibly even a water jet for the die but I don't know what kind of tolerences you need to hold for a die. The punch could be made with a surface grinder.
 
I need to make about 8 holes for some Pomona Binding posts. The posts are D-shaped to prevent rotation.
If pairs of the binding posts are spaced at the standard (for a double banana plug) 3/4" o.c., Pomona makes alignment strips with two D-shaped holes. Search Pomona Electronics for model 3862 - mounting base, double binding post. Those are black plastic and mount above the panel. Years ago, they sold (and maybe still do, but I couldn't find them) metal alignment strips, maybe 1/2" x 1" 16 ga., with two D-shaped holes that went behind the panel.

JCav
 
I've mounted dozens of tool posts over the years and while its nice to have the D shaped punch to make holes with nice tidy flats, I cheated.

I either aligned the posts in round 3/8 holes and lock tighted them in place or I blunt punched the hole lip to squash metal into the diameter simulating the flat. Sometimes you have to do a little filing. Either way it's quicker than the chassis punch.

Practice a little with the punch on remnent metal and you will soon make a neat, workmanlike "D" of the round hole.
 
Thanks to everyone for their input.

Forrest, loctite-ing them into place was my first thought then modifying an existing hollow punch came second. Much, much cheaper too!

I had thought about making a rudimentary punch and die but for this small of a job it's not worth it.

-Chris- thanks for that site, it has been bookmarked. ;)

Thanks,

Walt
 
For just 8 holes, drill ~0.350 and finish the profile with small round file and small 3 corner file

ExpTec
DBA Experimental Technique
 
I've punched holes in thin sheet metal using a regular pin punch. Put a block of wood in a vise with the end grain up then smack the punch with a hammer. Shouldn't be hard to grind a flat on the side.
 








 
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