OPTION 1

For high speed precision dies, this is the best option for radially locating a punch.

OPTION 3

This is the worst option for radially locating a punch because it is difficult to accomodate the fillet between the head and the body of the punch.  Furthermore, there is no way to compensate for wear on the locating flat.

OPTION 2

For a die where in-press maintenance is unnecessary, this is a good option for radial location of a punch.

Radial location of a Punch

As you can see, there are a number of options for fixing the radial position of a punch. Not shown is a ball-lock punch configuration, which is commonly used where the precision required is not an issue. The three methods shown are common and effective, however, options 1 and 2 are the best.

Option 1 is appropriate for punching thin stock where in-press maintenance is desirable.  The flatted hole is wire-cut in the punch retainer and a punch backup plate is used.  The one shown uses a retainer plate with a 5/16 SHCS, which is plenty for retaining the punch.

Option 2 (left) is effective, but the milled slot for the dowel pin must be precise, which is more difficult than the wire-cut flatted hole in Option 1, and this punch cannot be serviced in the press without removing the punch retainer, which is less convenient.