Metal spinning is used to create round, axially-symmetric parts from a disc-shaped blank. The blank, as well as a tool resembling the required component, are mounted onto a lathe, which rotates them both at high speeds. Force is then used to bring the blank over the tool, where it adopts the tool's shape. Once the process is complete, the spun component is removed from the tool.
Metal spinning is capable of producing complex shapes, with less material wastage than machining the component from solid. It is also very fast, resulting in shorter lead times. Although tooling is usually required, metal spinning tools are often made from wood, which makes them cheaper than other tools; however, for a larger production run, investment in a metal tool may be necessary.
The main disadvantage of metal spinning is that there can be a lack of consistency, owing to the fact that the tool itself usually heats up as a result of the metal spinning process. This may make the process unsuitable for applications where tight tolerances need to be adhered to, although many metal spinning suppliers will be able to overcome such issues by making adjustments at various stages throughout production.
Used to produce
Round, axially-symmetric parts from a disc-shaped blank.
Materials
Metal spinning offers a lot of flexibility when it comes to the materials used, with aluminium, stainless steel, mild steel and copper all being popular choices. Metal spinning can also be used with harder materials such as titanium.
Advantages
Cost-effective - although tooling is usually necessary, metal spinning tools are often made from wood, which makes them cheaper than other tools.
Fast process, resulting in short lead times.
Can be used to create both simple and complex shapes.
Disadvantages
For larger production runs, investment in a metal tool may be necessary.
There can be inconsistencies from part to part, owing to the fact that the tool itself usually heats up as a result of the metal spinning process. This may make the process unsuitable for applications where tight tolerances need to be adhered to.
