Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order different cutters for different size tube & pipe?
No. In order for us to offer the Econo Arc-Fit at such a low price, each model (#25 or #25A), comes with three interchangeable cutters, for the ODs & wall thickness listed. No other sizes are available. If you need more versatility, either additional sizes or heavier wall, then our Arc-Fit tooling will be a more appropriate choice.

My Econo Arc-Fit isn’t cutting as good as it used to.
If you’ve had your Econo Arc-Fit notching tool for a while, the cutters may be dull. You can purchase new cutting disks for $95.00 each. Note that the tube rest is also a cutting edge. Once the tube rest is dull, simply replacing your Econo Arc-Fit is recommended.

How do I line up the 2nd notch?
No orientation gauging is included. Some customers will design their own gauging. For example, a simple square block of wood, with a hole drilled to match your tube OD and a thumb screw will work. Slide this device over the tube, tighten the screw and if you have a flat plate below your material, you can only rotate the tube in four positions. Rotate the tube till the gauge block is upside down, and you will have two notches 180° apart.

My notch depths are not consistent, why?
The Econo Arc-Fit does not include an end-stop that would control part depth. Each of the three included punches is designed to notch to a different depth. Most users, with a little trial & error, learn how to ‘eyeball’ the depth accurately. Remember the Econo Arc-Fit is meant to be a low cost tool, perfect for light-duty, occasional use. If you need to ensure consistent notch depth and prefer a higher-quality and more durable tool, please consider purchasing our Arc-Fit tooling

The ram of my Econo Arc-Fit keeps breaking – why?
The ram is the vertical cylinder that slides up and down when you operate your Econo Arc-Fit. The cutting punches bolt to the underside of the ram. Most often, if the ram breaks, it’s because the tonnage to create the notch exceeds the tool’s capacity.
The common reasons for this are:

• Notching material that exceeds the tool’s capacity (i.e. schedule 40 pipe)
• Dull punches and / or tube rest
• Extra hard material (such as oil field pipe)
• You can replace your ram, but if you don’t change the underlying cause, the new ram will likely break as well, and this will not be considered a manufacturing defect. If you need to notch schedule 40 pipe, upgrade to our Arc-Fit tooling, if you are notching material that is suitable for the Econo Arc-Fit, it may simply be time to purchase a new unit with sharp, fresh cutting edges.

I need to notch more than one size tubing, how many Arc-Fit units do I need?
The Arc-Fit Housing will accept many different assemblies, up to the maximum capacity listed. If your next application is for a larger tube, then a new, larger housing must be purchased. Change over time is about 5 – 10 minutes. If you use our Hand Press and change sizes frequently, purchasing one housing for each assembly will save time (and lost or mis-installed tooling). Removing the Housing with the assembly still inside, requires loosening only one bolt and can be done in seconds. We also offer a power press, our CSP-25-SA 110V Power Unit, which has an optional 3-Housing turntable option.This lets you be permanently set up for three different notching applications, and only require you to rotate the base to select the needed side.

How do I line up the second notch?
If you look at our Arc-Fit Assemblies, you’ll notice to vertical, parallel lines on the Punch Holder. When you rotate the tube or pipe upside down for the second notch, these lines will mate with the edges of the notch, providing a visual aid to help you rotate the tube correctly. Note that our Arc-Twin Double Notchers tooling will notch both walls in one stroke and orientation is guaranteed.

How do I sharpen Arc-Fit tooling? We recommend you send your Arc-Fit tooling to Vogel for sharpening. Note that both the Punch and Die are cutting edges, like the two halves of a scissors. Please see our page on Tool Sharpening for instructions on returning your tools to Vogel for sharpening.

What do the numbers stamped into my tooling mean?
We assign an Assembly number that is marked into the Punch, Punch Holder and Die of your Arc-Fit tooling. This number will either be Four digits long, beginning with a 9, or five digits long and begin with a 1.There may be an “A” at the end of the part number. All three parts have the same number (Note if your assembly was custom made, we may use a stock Punch Holder and mark the unique assembly number only on the Punch & Die). Because all three parts have the same number, it is easy to make sure you are using the correct parts together. When ordering replacements, be sure to specify whether you wish a new Assembly (three pieces) or wish to order individual parts only (just a punch, for example). If you have several Vogel tools and are not sure of what sizes they are for, you can contact us with the markings on your tool.

Can I use the first station of my Arc-Fit Angular to make 90° notches?
No. Although the first station look similar, the Arc-Fit Angular creates a deep ellipse in the first station, a notch that is too long and narrow to be appropriate for a 90° notch. For 90° notching our standard Arc-Fit tooling is required.

What angle should I order?
The Arc-Fit Angular is most popular for railings alongside stairways. For this application our customers most commonly order a 35° angle. Note that this same angle can also be described as 55° (see illustration below). We can also make the tool for other angles, please Contact Us to discuss your needs.

I need more than one angle / I’m not sure what angle I will need.
The Arc-Fit Angular is designed to consistently notch out one angle. By not fully inserting the pipe in the first station, it is possible to “cheat” and create a slightly shallow angle, perhaps up to 5° less, at most.

What is the difference between the Arc-Fit Angular and the Arc-Snug?
There are several differences, including: Arc-Fit Angular

• Two stations – three strokes (two in 2nd station)
• Normally used with pipe
• Leaves gaps, joints commonly stick welded
• #75 Housing can be used in Vogel CSP-25-SA Power Unit

Arc-Snug

• Two stations – two strokes
• Normally used with tubing
• Snug, gap-free fit-up, also suitable for brazing
• Longer stroke not suitable for Vogel CSP-25-SA Power Unit

I’m making handrail and my uprights are a different size pipe.
You can order an Arc-Fit Angular custom assembly designed for one size pipe to fit a different size. For example, perhaps you need to notch 1-1/2″ pipe to fit against an 1-1/4″ pipe. No problem! Just specify the details at time of order. Note that each time the angle or pipe sizes change, a new assembly is required. Different assemblies can fit the same housing as long as the notched pipe does not exceed the housing’s maximum capacity.

I need to put in a drain hole, how can I do this?
You have several choices. The Arc-Fit Angular can put in a drain hole at the same time it is creating the notch. The drain hole would be at the deep point of the notch and created in the first station. If you don’t need the drain hole in every part, you can also purchase an Arc-Fit assembly to create a drain hole (only) to be used as an additional operation after the notch is created.

Can I sharpen / replace my tooling?
Yes, you can replace the punches and/or the dies. You can also send in any of these parts to be sharpened. Please visit our page on Tool Sharpening for instructions on returning tools to Vogel for sharpening.

What do I need to make my own pickets?
You’ll need square tubing, a way to cut the tubing to your desired picket length (or purchase pre-cut), our picket forming tool and a press to power the tool.

What sizes of tubing can I form into pickets?
Our tooling will accept 1/2″ square minimum, 1″ square maximum. 14 gauge to 18 gauge. The tool is set up for one size of square tubing and requires a change over punch and die when changing tube sizes. Some sizes can be run with the same tooling, see chart below. Tube Size Gauge Use tooling for: 1/2″ square 14 ~ 18 1/2″ 5/8″ square 14 ~ 18 3/4″ 3/4″ square 14 ~ 18 3/4″ 7/8″ square 14 ~ 18 1″ 1″ square 14 ~ 18 1″

You show different shapes on your site, what should I get?
The sharp (PC75) and radius (PC75R) are our standard designs. You can buy either design and convert them later to the other style. We caution that many local building codes may restrict or ban the use of the sharp point design, for safety reasons. The radius tip is by far our most popular design. The other two designs with notched sides are custom-built. We may be able to other additional custom designs, so please fax or email us your ideas!

How many strokes does it take to smash, trim and form the picket?
Our tooling only requires one press stroke to create the picket from you cut to length square tube. Note that a small bit of scrap is created during the trimming of the tip shape, so you will actually need to cut your tubes slightly longer to compensate.

I don’t have a press to run your tooling in, can I operate in my Vogel Hand Press?
The tonnage required to form pickets exceeds what our hand press can generate. You will need our CSP-25-SA , a simple hydraulic power unit. This press is 120V, small enough to fit on a workbench, and has a foot switch to cycle the press each time you are ready to form a picket. With a $105.00 mounting adapter, you can also use the power unit to run all the notching tooling that you currently operate with your hand press.

What do I do to form the horizontal rails to make a complete panel?
We offer three tools that can be used to pierce the rails. We offer two channel pierce tools (with different maximum capacities) and one tube piercing tool.

You offer three tools for the horizontal rails. Which one is best?
Two of our tools (CHP35 & CHP75) are only for use with channel. Our THP Tool, although more expensive, is more versatile, as it can be used on both channel and square tubing. Please review the maximum capacity of material that can be used in each tool. If you need to pierce larger material, please contact us to discuss your specific applications.

I use more than one size Channel, do I need different tools?
As long as your material does not exceed the maximum capacity shown you do not need additional tools.

I make several sizes of square pickets, do I need different tools?
No. As long as your material being pierced and the hole size does not exceed the tool’s maximum capacity, you simply need to purchase additional punch & die sets for each additional size of square hole needed. Can I rack my panel (shift so panel is on an angle, such as when going up an incline). This can be accommodated by ordering a rectangular punch and die to allow extra clearance on the left and right side of the picket. The pickets will be able to move freely, meaning you will have to carefully fixture your panel before welding, but this will give you the flexibility to created an angled panel (where pickets pass through horizontal rails on an angle).

Will the tube have deformation when being pierced?
Yes. Our THP Tube Pierce Tool does not provide any ID support to the tube. This means that you can pierce any length of tubing. The tube is clamped so the two vertical side walls of the tube cannot bulge out during piercing. The top wall will dimple (deform) inward however. Most fence panel manufacturers simply face this part of the rail downward when assembling their panels. It is also possible to fill the dimple during welding and grind and polish for high value jobs where appearance is critical.

How much dimple can I expect?
It’s the question we get asked most. The amount of dimple the THP tool produces is based on many factors, including hole size in relation to tube ID, weld seam location, tube material and gauge, tooling sharpness, press speed, amount & type of lubrication used. For this reason, we cannot estimate the dimple you can expect.

Can you send me samples for us to evaluate?
Because the amount of deformation will vary, as described about, we do not provide samples. We do not want to create an expectation of how much deformation will be produced, as you may experience more or less than any samples we might provide.

Can I pierce multiple holes at once?
With these tools, no. If the tools did, you would have no flexibility to change your hole spacing. To pierce multiple holes, you can purchase our Perf-Arc Tools and set-up in a press brake. Your set up will determine hole spacing, and the number of units you purchase will determine how many holes are pierced at one time.

How do I control my hole spacing?
We offer a gauging device that mounts to the CHP or THP tools. It allows for 8″ centers maximum and is easily adjustable for lesser distances. A spring-loaded post drops into the previously pierced hole to control the spacing. The post needs to be changed each time you change your hole size.

What kind of press do I need to run this tooling?
If you do not have a press available that meets the press requirements listed, our CSP-25-SA Hydraulic Power Unit can power our CHP / THP tools and can also power our picket forming tool.

Do you offer feed systems for your cut off dies?
No. Because a feed system must be integrated with your press, it is difficult for us to offer equipment that will be suitable for the wide variety of presses our customers may install our die in. We DO offer full automation for our cut off machines

Can I add a feed system to your dies?
Yes! You may wish to contact a feed manufacturer or integrator that specializes in automation and can visit your facility to tailor a system to your needs. Please note that when running different tube sizes, the centerline of the tubes will change in relation to the lower die shoe. What is consistent is the top tangent of the tube as measured from the top surface of the lower die shoe. This means that any feed system or even a simple manual conveyor to support your tubes must be capable of minor height adjustments. Note that when cutting square or rectangular tubing, they are cut in a “corner over corner” orientation.

Can I cut tubes on an angle?
No. Our cut off dies are designed for square cuts (cut end perpendicular to the centerline of the tube) However we do offer our Miter-Snug tooling to create the angle in a separate operation.

Is there a minimum part length I can cut?
Please note the Insert Length listed under each die’s specs. This is also the minimum part length to be cut, so that the tube can contact the micro-switch assembly. If you wish to cut shorter parts, the die inserts can be in cut (rear clearance) for an additional charge, to accommodate shorter parts. Even with in cutting, we recommend 1/2″ as a minimum part length.

Can I do a trim cut to eliminate the dimpled tube end as the tubes arrive from our tube supplier?
Yes! Most typically, you’ll want to keep your micro-switch adjusted to your finished part length. To do a trim cut, simply slide your raw tube stock into the die inserts just past the blades. You’ll need to manually cycle your press if the trim cut is too short to contact the micro-switch. One the press cycles, simply keep feeding the material which will eject the trim cut.

Where do the cut tubes go?
Our die is designed to have raw tube lengths fed through the die from front to rear. Some customers install our dies rotated 90°, based on their press, so material can be fed left-to-right, for presses that do not offer rear clearance. As the tube is pushed through the die, it will pass through the die inserts, till it contacts the (included) micro-switch stop assembly. This micro-switch will signal your press to cycle. Once the cut is complete, the micro-switch stop moves out of the way, so the next push of the raw tube length ejects the cut tube out of the rear of the die until the balance of the raw tubing contacts the micro-switch and the cycle is repeated. You can simply put a collection basket at the rear of your press or add a ramp to direct the cut tubes.

Where do slugs go?
The slugs are ejected out the bottom of the die set. This means that you will need openings in your bolster plate. Some other benefits of this design:

• No chips to clean from the inside and outside of your tube. Your cut tube is ready for mandrel piercing or bending with no intermediate step!
• When cutting high-value material such as stainless or aluminum, slugs are easier to collect for their scrap value
• No chips mean less debris to potentially interfere with proper die operation.

Are there other set-up issues to be concerned about?
Yes, when planning on where you will install your Vogel Cut-Off die, please keep in mind:

• Closed cam design requires a specific stroke. If your press does not have adjustable stroke controls and cannot accommodate the required stroke, we may be able to offer you a die with custom length cams. Please consult factory to discuss.
• In the closed position, the die posts extend above the upper die shoe and the cams extend below the lower die shoe. In addition, clearance is required below the lower shoe for slug ejection.
• If you are cutting long tubes, you may wish to add a support system in front of your press to support the raw tube length. If your cut parts are long, a rear support is recommended.
• Our micro-switch stop assembly ships in a 24″ length, (fully adjustable for shorter part lengths). If you wish to cut longer parts, this assembly is easily extended, but requires support to keep it square and level.

I have a tube mill, can I use your die in a flying application?
No, our dies are not designed for inline, flying applications (where the cut off die moves along with a moving tube, as it is produced on a tube mill. Our dies are designed for stationary re cutting of tubes. Note that “stationary” only means that the tube is stationary during the time it is cut (one cycle of a press). The tube does move in between cuts, as it is advanced through the die. The movement is normally manually powered with our cut off dies, (an operator pushes the tube through the die), but can be automated as part of our cut off machines.

Am I limited to cutting round tubes?
Our cut off dies are extremely versatile. They can cut square, rectangular, oval and many other types of tubing. We have successfully cut fluted tubing, tri-lobular (triangular) and other custom shapes. Please contact us with details of your specialized cutting applications. Note, when cutting squares or rectangular tubing, only one (vertical blade) is used. If you only need to cut square or rectangular tubing we make cut off dies (LHP / LHC series) that are lower-priced and do not include the 2nd (horizontal) blade mechanism. The LHP dies can be upgraded in the future, with this horizontal blade mechanism to accommodate round tubing.

What materials can I cut?
Although mild steel is the most common, you can cut stainless, half-hard brass or copper, aluminum and more. To avoid cross-contamination you may wish to maintain separate blades and die inserts for different materials and / or consider using a coating (TiN for example) on these components.

What cut quality can I expect?
Our dies are design to cut with no deformation and burr of no more than 25% of the tube’s wall thickness. Note that there will be ID burr at the top of the tube, OD burr at the bottom of the tube, where the blade exits the tube and ejects the cut slug.

Can I get samples of cut tubing?
We do not offer samples of cut tubing. With all the possible variation of tube shape, size & wall thickness our cut off dies can cut, it would be difficult to maintain enough samples to have representations close to any one specific application. In addition, there are many factors that affect cut quality including:

• Weld seam location
• Press speed
• Normal material variations
• Tooling sharpness
• Amount & type of lubrication used

How much dimple can I expect?
It’s the question we get asked most. The amount of dimple these tools produce is based on many factors, including hole size in relation to tube ID, weld seam location, tube material and gauge, tooling sharpness, press speed, amount & type of lubrication used. For this reason, we cannot estimate the dimple you can expect. These tools are perfect when the exact amount of dimple is not critical and variation in dimple (i.e. as tooling dulls) will not impact part function, such as clearance holes, bolt holes, etc.

Can you send me samples for us to evaluate?
Because the amount of deformation will vary, as described about, we do not provide samples. We do not want to create an expectation of how much deformation will be produced, as you may experience more or less than any samples we might provide. If the maximum amount of deformation created is critical, you may wish to consider a custom built arbor piercing die, which supports the tube ID and prevents any deformation. Please contact us to discuss your application.

Will these tools pierce clean holes?
No. Clean hole piercing (no deformation to OD) cannot be done with Perf-Arc tools. In order to prevent tube deformation, we will typically custom design and build a tool in a die set, with a mandrel to support the tube ID. Because of the custom nature of this type of equipment, please contact us and supply a print of your part so we can accurately quote an appropriate tool.

How do I set up these tools?
For the following models, 627 / 637 / 647 -we offer a variety of designs:

• D style – one dimpled hole, designed to be installed into a die set
• DK style – one dimpled hole, includes keys, top & bottom for mounting in a press brake
• DD style – two dimpled holes, designed to be installed into a die set
• DDK style – two dimpled holes, includes keys, top & bottom for mounting in a press brake

All the above tools have a top and bottom half that separate completely. They need to have their movement guided, so they come together properly as your press cycles. Die Set mounted tools These tools have holes in the top and bottom for bolting into a die set. If you purchase multiple units, you can mount them with appropriate spacing and put in multiple holes at the same time. We do not normally sell or install the units, but we can recommend Danly, who is a mfg. of die sets. Press brake mounted tools These tools have a 1/2″ wide key, top and bottom for installing directly into most press brakes. No die set is required. We also offer the self-contained 629 / 639 / 649 units. These units have a flanged base with mounting holes. They can be bolted directly to the bed of your press or to a sub plate. If you wish to install into a press brake, you will want to add a sub plate with a keyed bottom.

Can I pierce more than one hole at once?
Yes, by purchasing multiple units you can put in multiple holes in one cycle of your press. Please note the left to right dimension for each tool. This is the minimum hole center-to-center distance that can be achieved by installing the units flush with each other. Also note that with 627 / 637 / 647 units, because of the springs that compress during piercing, the tube will change vertical position during notching. You cannot mix D & DD style units in the same set-up. If you wish to produce a part that has dimpled holes on one wall and dimpled holes on both walls, purchase DD style units (double dimple) and simply remove one punch to create dimpled holes on only one wall.

Can I change my hole size or tube size?
With the 627 / 637 / 647 units, changing hole size is simple, just order additional punches (up to maximum capacity shown) and swap. Punches install with a set screw. To change the tube OD, we recommend purchasing a new tool. These tools can be used on various gauges, with no change over, as long as the tube OD and hole size remain the same. For the 629 / 639 / 649 units, changing hole size is more involved. In addition to a new punch, the lower clamp has an opening that functions as a die. The punch cuts against the lower clamp when piercing the bottom wall of the tube. Parts required for various change over are described below:

• Change hole size – new punch / new lower clamp needed
• Same hole size, change OD – new upper & lower clamps needed
• Same hole size, same OD, change gauge – new lower clamp needed

Does the tool cut the tube (into two parts, each with a mitered end)?
No. This tool cuts three walls of the tube, leaving the rear wall intact, for folding to create your finished corner. If you wish to have two separate parts, each with a mitered end, you will need to purchase a Vogel Cut Off Die, and a Vogel Mitre Snug. Three press strokes in two different tools will be required.

Does the tool fold the tube after V-Notching?
No, we do not provide tools for the folding / bending of the tube after V-Notching

Is there any deformation to the tube?
Yes, our V-Notch is an unsupported cut, meaning there is no mandrel or ID support to the tube. This means that the V-Notch tool can be used anywhere down the length of a tube, unlike a supported cut that is location-specific. clamped, to prevent any deformation, and the bottom wall is supported by a die, also preventing deformation.

How much deformation can I expect?
The amount of deformation you will experience is affected by many factors, including tooling sharpness, press speed, wall thickness, weld seam location, amount and type

Can you send samples of a V-Notched tube for us to evaluate?
Because the amount of deformation, as described above, will vary, we do not provide samples. We do not want to create an expectation of how much deformation will be produced, as you may experience more or less than any samples we provide. Because deformation is confined to just one wall, some of our customers fill the depression with weld, which can be ground and polished for applications where appearance is critical. Can I notch different tube sizes? Yes, up to the maximum capacity listed, but some components must be changed or adjusted.

• To change tube size, Front Spacers are changed
• To change gauge, front spacers are shimmed and rear cams are changed

Vogel is proud to offer over 80 years of experience in building tooling specific to the tubular part fabrication industry. Custom built tool do have unique issues, both at the quoting phase and during design and build. Below we will attempt to common questions we’ve been asked about our custom dies

I am interested in a custom die like you show on your site. Can you give me a ballpark price?
If you have a print available, we’ll be happy to quote an exact price. Please fax, email or mail your prints. Please review our request a quote page for details. Without a print, we prefer not to quote even ballpark prices. Tolerances, how a part is dimensioned, materials – all these things can significantly impact cost, or even our ability to offer a tool at all! Rather than quote a ballpark that may not be correct or useful, we’d rather review all application details to insure we can provide tooling and an accurate price.

Can I send you a sample of my part for a quote?
Again, we regret that quoting off a part is a practice we discourage. Once you’re ready to order and have committed to producing parts, we’d don’t want to see part drawings for the first time and have to advise that the part cannot be produced as drawn. Again, with a fully-dimensioned part print, we’re happy to quote your custom applications.

Can I get samples of parts produced on your custom dies?
All custom dies were built by Vogel to meet a specific customer’s application. In order to preserve confidentiality, we are unable to provide you with another customer’s parts. We, of course, will extend this same confidentiality to your drawings, custom dies we build and sample parts we make on your dies.

What else should I know about custom die quotes?
Regarding quotes, the more information you can provide, the better. If you have an intended press, please provide the specs. Instead of just quoting a tool, we’ll advise if there are issues about fitting it to your press or any additional charges to make it suitable. Please review our request a quote page for details.

What else should I know about custom die orders?
Any product Vogel manufactures to order requires a deposit (typically 50% down) and samples of your material. We want your tubing in the form it will be presented to our tool. This typically means cut to length with your normal cutting technique, with bends or any other features in place that will be performed prior to the use of our tooling.

Our lead time is critical, can you accommodate?
We make every effort to accommodate critical lead times. Unfortunately, the custom-built nature of an order, means that completion dates cannot be guaranteed. Some very important notes on custom die lead times: Lead times are manufacturing time, not delivered dates. Truck shipments typically add up to 1 week, depending on your location. Lead times are our best estimate at time of quote. When you order, lead times may have increased or decreased. If critical, please inquire again at time of order. Lead times are not from the date you issue your Purchase Order to Vogel, but “begin” when we received all items required to process your order. These items typically include a deposit & sample material. Other items may be needed as well and will be listed on your order acknowledgment. As an example, if we quote a 6 week lead time on March 1st and we don’t receive the required items till June 1st, your lead time to complete the order will be 6 weeks from June 1s. If our workload on June 1st is larger, we may have to increase the 6 week lead time.

I won’t be receiving my tubing till I’m ready to make parts, why do you need it before you begin manufacture?
When we design your tool, we want to be aware of any material issues that could impact our design. Burr from cut off, reduced ID’s from bending, weld seam height and location are just some of the issues we’ll examine before we begin designing your tool. If you are unable to provide material at the time you place your order, please discuss with your salesperson. You can request that the sample material requirement be waived, with the understanding that if rework is required because of material issues, it will be chargeable and extend the lead time to complete the tool.