More about Metal Spinning

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Metal spinning is the amazing process which allows for the tiniest parts and elements to be made from blank sheet metal into useful objects like internal and external engine parts, deep copper bowls, light fixtures and even trash can lids. More obscure, but equally useful, pieces can be made through metal spinning, such as refractory nozzles, test tube holders and hose adapters.

The concept of spinning may bring to mind a pottery wheel. The process of metal spinning derives some of its skills from the early science of working with clay. Today's methods are so advanced that the most companies can promise integrity and durability to the metal after it is spun, which is much more difficult to work with than clay. Metal spinning has been modernized to such a degree that it is applauded as a more efficient way to make various metal parts. CAD/CAM and CNC programming software is helping companies design and produce spun metal products in-house, which allow a computer to calculate blueprints and dimensions. Depending on the product, a company will use manual or automatic methods. Sheet metal can be spun into shapes with hollow centers like cones or cylinders according to computer blueprints.

Various metals can be spun including steel, aluminum, copper and brass. Even more unusual metals like Hastelloy and Titanium are starting to be used in metal spinning. Markets that purchase metal spun parts will require various widths, sizes and intricacies. Being able to control the wall thickness and creating large diameters are valued skill among companies or craftsmen who offer metal spinning. The process of metal spinning is performed with lathes made from, of course, stronger material than the metal being spun. Hydraulic machinery is the primary technology used in metal spinning. Spinning can be combined with other metal work processes like deep drawing or welding and often allows for companies to offer shorter turnarounds. A spun item can easily be changed or slightly altered even under the pressure of a request for high volumes of a product.