The 22" long x 5" wide louver panels (one left and one right) are pre-cut with 1/16" slits for each of the 16 (per panel) louvers. The dies don't need to pierce the panels. The panels are then curved (radiused) using a pinch roller. The louvers are then stamped. Note that there needs to be both a left and right die..just to make things more difficult.
I'm working with a shop that says they've had success using 3D printed (PLA) dies. With pre-cut slits, the force required to form the louvers is much reduced so they say.
To date, I've cut and slit the panels, had the panels rolled to the 6.5" radius, and sent everything to the shop to be stamped. They are working on the CAD/CAM design for the 3D printer. Will advise.
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B T Dudley
Houston
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