What is the metal spinning process?

Metal spinning, also known as spin forming or spinning, is a metalworking process in which a disc or tube of metal is rotated at high speed and formed into an axially symmetric part using a tool or die. The process is similar to woodturning or pottery wheel throwing, but with metal instead of wood or clay. Metal spinning is a versatile and cost-effective method of fabricating parts with circular or cylindrical symmetry, such as cylinders, cones, and hemispheres. It is often used to create parts with thin walls and complex geometries, such as fuel tanks, pressure vessels, and aerospace components.

The process begins with a flat sheet or ring of metal, which is placed over a mandrel or chuck and clamped in place. A spinning tool, which can be either a hand tool or a lathe, is then used to apply pressure to the metal and shape it into the desired form. The spinning tool is typically made of a hard material such as carbide or diamond, and is shaped to match the contours of the final product. As the metal is spun, it is gradually shaped and stretched until it conforms to the desired shape.

There are several benefits to using metal spinning for fabrication. One of the main advantages is the ability to create parts with complex geometries and thin walls, which would be difficult or impossible to achieve using other metalworking processes. Metal spinning is also a fast and efficient process, as it can produce parts in a single operation with minimal waste. In addition, the process is highly accurate and produces parts with consistent thickness and a smooth finish.

There are several types of metal spinning, including manual spinning, lathe spinning, and hydroforming. Let’s take a look at some of them below;