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The origins of metal spinning are lost in the mists of history.
Although the first evidence of spinning techniques being used for the
forming of metals is said to be originated from ancient artisians, with
the use of man to turn the wheel on the lathe for the spinner to work.
Metal spinning is still known as the "Black Art" and is a very secretive
craft. The only way to learn the trade is to be taken under the wing of an
experienced time served spinner.
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Metal spinning is a unique method of forming metal into circular
shapes; it is a simple combination of rotation and force. In the process a
flat circular metal disc is gradually formed over a rotating mandrel,
commonly called a chuck. The rollers are placed against a flat metal blank
as it spins on the lathe. The material is fashioned around the chuck,
which shapes the finished piece.
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Spinning is an efficient, cost-effective method of producing
cylindrical and spherical shaped parts. While other methods can be used to
obtain the same results, the tooling required for metal spinning is
considerably less. This tooling usually consists of one mandrel, over
which the metal is formed. Depending on the size and the application, the
tooling is made of steel, cast iron, aluminum, and wood, or a combination
of wood and steel.
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The relativity low cost of the tooling makes metal spinning an ideal
method of producing parts for prototypes or for production runs.
