Metal spinning is a highly specialized metal forming process that transforms flat metal discs into precise, seamless shapes through the combined action of rotation and applied pressure. In this process, a disc is gradually pressed against a rotating mandrel using a roller or forming tool, shaping it into cones, hemispheres, tubes, or other circular and cylindrical geometries. This technique is highly versatile and cost-effective because it requires minimal tooling and works with a wide range of metals, from aluminum and steel to exotic alloys such as titanium, Inconel, and Hastelloy.
For large-scale production, CNC spin lathes are employed to ensure accuracy and consistency, while hand spinning remains a preferred method for custom or low-volume projects, offering a high degree of craftsmanship and flexibility. Metal spinning is widely recognized in both industrial and artistic applications for its ability to produce durable, aesthetically pleasing, and structurally sound components.
Advantages of Metal Spinning
Metal spinning offers significant advantages compared to other metal forming methods:
- Seamless Design: Components are formed as a single piece, eliminating weak points from welding or joining.
- Cost Efficiency: Low tooling requirements and rapid setup reduce production costs.
- Weight Reduction: Spun parts are often lighter without compromising strength, reducing material use.
- Material Versatility: Suitable for aluminum, steel, copper, brass, titanium, and various high-performance alloys.
- Customizable Thickness: Thickness can be controlled precisely, providing strength where needed and reducing unnecessary bulk.
- Reduced Waste: Less scrap material is generated compared to casting or machining.
- Enhanced Strength: Cold working during spinning increases tensile strength and hardness of the material.
- Pressure Resistance: Seamless parts can withstand higher internal or external pressure.
- Symmetry and Precision: Rotational symmetry ensures uniformity and precise dimensions.
- Rapid Iteration: Modifying forming parameters or part designs can be achieved quickly and at low cost.
These advantages make metal spinning ideal for applications requiring durable, lightweight, and high-quality metal parts.
Applications and Products Created via Metal Spinning
Metal spinning enables the creation of a wide variety of products, from functional industrial components to decorative household items. Some typical applications include:
Household Products:
- Lighting fixtures and lamp covers
- Kitchenware such as sinks, funnels, bowls, cups, lids, plates, and baking tools
- Decorative items like urns, vases, flowerpots, and trash bins
Industrial Components:
- Aerospace parts, cylinders, and gas tanks
- Automotive components, fan panels, and engine parts
- Rocket engine parts, nose cones, radar calibration spheres, and other precision components
Miscellaneous Items:
- Musical instruments, bells, keychains, trophy components
- Sports equipment parts, fishing reel components
- Ashtrays, whirligigs, spinning tops, flag bases, table bases, and satellite or antenna dishes
Materials Commonly Used:
Aluminum, steel, stainless steel, copper, brass, titanium, bronze, nickel, columbium, high tensile alloys, heat-resistant alloys, Inconel, Corten steel, Hastelloy, and other specialty metals.
Capabilities and Specifications
With advanced CNC metal spinning equipment and highly skilled technical teams, metal parts can be spun with precision, whether for prototypes, low-volume production, or high-volume orders. Key capabilities include:
- Maximum blank diameter: 72″
- Forming thickness up to 0.250″ (1/4″)
- CNC and playback control systems for precise and repeatable operations
- Forming pressures up to 14,000 lbs
- Minimal tooling investment required
- Suitable for metals ranging from aluminum and brass to Inconel and titanium
- Cold forming that enhances material strength and maintains structural integrity
Common materials handled include Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Brass, Bronze, Carbon Steel, Columbium, Copper, Heat-Resistant Alloys, High Tensile Alloys, Inconel, Maraging Steel, Nickel & Nickel Alloys, Stainless Steel, Tantalum, and Titanium.
Custom Metal Fabrication Services
Metal spinning offers unmatched versatility for both industrial and decorative applications. Companies in aerospace, automotive, commercial manufacturing, compressed natural gas (CNG) systems, cookware production, energy, environmental engineering, food processing, medical equipment, marine, microelectronics, military, OEM manufacturing, pharmaceutical, R&D, and recreational industries rely on this technique for high-quality, durable, and lightweight metal components.
Our services cater to custom designs, prototypes, and production orders of any scale, allowing clients to bring their ideas to life with precision and efficiency. The combination of advanced CNC machinery, skilled craftsmanship, and flexible forming parameters ensures that each component meets exact specifications and functional requirements.
Contact us today to discuss your next project and receive a detailed quote for professional metal spinning and custom fabrication services.
