The options available in metal machining can seem to be different things at different times. Sometimes, the vast range of methods and processes can seem overwhelming and more trouble than they’re worth. More often, though, with the right knowledge and willingness to research, great solutions can come from unexpected places. Such is the case with the relationship between metal stamping and metal spinning. At first glance, they seem only tangentially related, each with their own benefits and qualities, but generally exclusive of each other. A closer look, though, shows that metal spinning can provide great efficiencies in cost and time to metal stamping shops and their customers.
The main area in which those savings can occur is in prototyping. Even if metal stamping is better suited to a long run of a part or product, the costs of tooling and setup often make prototyping an excessive expenditure of time and effort, and thus, money. This is especially true if the customer decides not to proceed with the production run. The nature of metal spinning is much better suited to prototype production, with much less time required in setup and little if any tooling cost. In fact, using metal spinning for a prototype can often save customers up to 90%. More complex geometries can even be formed through metal spinning through the use of multiple blocks and forms to shape the piece. We’re all partners in manufacturing, and it’s great to be able to contribute to the industry’s success through a variety of channels.