Jump to content

Corner Notcher

From CEED Wiki
Manufacturing Training Center/Manufacturing Technologies/Corner Notcher

Corner Notchers

MTC Corner Notcher

A sheet metal corner notcher is a mechanical cutting tool used in metal fabrication to remove square or angular sections from the edges of sheet metal. This tool is essential for creating clean corners in boxes, trays, panels, and other sheet metal forms. It provides high precision and repeatability, making it a common feature in metalworking shops, HVAC fabrication, and manufacturing facilities.

Overview

A corner notcher typically consists of:

  • Two angled blades (commonly set at 90°)
  • A notching table or work surface with guides or rulers
  • A lever to drive the blades downward
  • Back gauges and stops for repeatable cuts

When engaged, the upper blade descends in a shearing action against the fixed lower blade, removing a triangular or rectangular piece from the sheet’s corner.

Common Applications

  • Cutting 90° notches in metal boxes or frames
  • Preparing bends or folds in sheet metal
  • Making custom panels, brackets, trays, or ductwork
  • Removing excess corners before folding or welding

Safety First

  1. Do not exceed the capacity of the machine.
  2. Do not leave the handle on the down position.
  3. Ensure that the guides are clear of the blades when using.
  4. Be mindful of your hand placement as the lever comes down to cut through the material so you don’t cut yourself during the swing

Clean Up Procedures

  1. Remove scrap pieces and place in scrap bins if usable, garbage if not
  2. Leave the handle in a vertical position so that no one walks into it.

Material and Capacity

Maximum Depthː 6.0in

Notching Capacityː 16 gauge (~1.6mm/ 0.039in)

Compatible Materialsː

  • Mild steel
  • Aluminum
  • Copper
  • Brass
  • Stainless steel (thin gauge only)
Using a corner notcher to punch out 90deg corner in sheet metal used for the Basic Training Box.

Operating Instructions

Step-by-Step: How to use a corner Notcher

1. Prepare the Notcher:

  • Ensure the notcher is clean, mounted securely, and blades are sharp.

2. Adjust Guides or Stops:

  • Use built-in rulers or back gauges to set the desired notch position.
  • Lock the guides in place for consistent cuts.

3. Position the Sheet:

  • Slide the metal into the notching area until it contacts both guides.
  • Ensure the corner you want to remove is aligned with the blade intersection.

4. Make the Cut:

  • Put both hands on the lever and apply steady pressure until the material is sheared.
  • Bend with your knees, not your back.
  • Lift the lever all the way back before letting go.

5. Remove the Material:

  • Retrieve the notched piece and inspect for accuracy.
  • Repeat as necessary with adjusted guides for multiple cuts.

Maintenance (STAFF ONLY)

  • Degrease and oil notching table and blades
  • Clean metal shavings and debris from the notching area.
  • Inspect and tighten hardware to maintain accuracy and safety.
  • Sharpen or replace blades regularly.