What is CNC Metal Spinning? 

What does CNC stand for?

CNC Stands for Computer Numerical Control, which allows our lathes to execute programmed spin cycles with remarkable accuracy. This technology has revolutionized metal spinning and metal fabricating, always ensuring tight tolerances and delivering unmatched precision. The repeatability of these programs enhances efficiency and reduces production time for each part.  

What is CNC metal spinning?

CNC metal spinning, also known as spin forming, is the process of shaping sheet metal into a variety of forms or shapes. Using a lathe and CNC controls, a metal disc is rotated and pressed against a tool, (a mandrel or chuck), by a tailstock. A roller manipulated with CNC controls presses against the metal to form the metal over the tool through a series of passes by the roller. This process results in a final product that precisely mirrors the shape of the tool used to form it. Watch here for an example.

Metal Spinning Diagram

Metal spinning incorporated with CNC technology allows for extremely accurate parts with tight tolerances, to be made consistently every time. With CNC technology, we are able to program our automated lathes to run a series of passes over a blank, creating a specific shape. While programming the lathe, we make sure to note specific tolerances including height, inner diameter, outer diameter, and certain radii. CNC Metal Spinning helps us to outperform industry standards when it comes to build to print custom parts.

At Toledo Metal Spinning Company, our CNC technology allows for a wide range of capabilities outside of metal spinning. We utilize this process every day, and combine it with others such as deep drawing, stamping, welding, and sometimes finalizing the part with a beautiful polish.

What are benefits of CNC Metal Spinning?

  • Accuracy – the ability to form parts with tight tolerances
  • Precision
  • Reduced waste and scrap
  • Repeatability
  • Consistency
  • Efficiency – mass production made easier
  • Flexibility in order sizes
  • Fast production runs
  • Ability to create multi-stepped parts
  • Durable Finished Products
  • Power to work with tougher materials
  • Versatility in materials

When did Metal Spinning come to be?

The earliest references to metal spinning recorded date back to antiquity where the ancient Egyptians used primitive hand powered lathes to spin soft metals such as silver and gold. There is also evidence that similar lathes were used in ancient China highlighting the importance of metal spinning and metal working capabilities of early civilizations across the globe. Find extended metal spinning history here.

Common Materials used in Metal Spinning

  • Stainless Steel
  • Cold Rolled Steel
  • Aluminum
  • Copper

What are the different types of metal spinning?

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