Which Is the Better Choice?

Both stainless steel and galvanized steel are strong and durable, but each one has specific advantages, depending on the application. When it comes to galvanized steel vs. stainless steel, you have to understand the difference between the two and consider what type of product you’re making and what demands it will face in its environment. From there, the best choice for you will become clear.

What Is Galvanized Steel vs. Stainless Steel?

Galvanized steel is coated with zinc to protect it from rust, while stainless steel is an alloy made with at least 10% chromium for the same reason: to guard against rust and corrosion.

Strength and Malleability

Aluminum is more elastic and ductile, allowing it to be bent, extruded, or stretched without cracking or breaking. It increases strength in colder environments, although it is susceptible to dents and scratches. In contrast, steel is tough and resilient but has the added risks of rust and corrosion, as well as cracking or ripping during spinning due to reduced malleability and ductility. However, it is a much harder and more durable material than aluminum, making it resistant to bending or warping from heat, weight, or force, or heat.

Aluminum vs. steel weight is a significant determinant in which material is preferable for applications where every extra pound can decrease speed, aerodynamics, and fuel efficiency. In those applications, aluminum is clearly superior as it is lightweight, easy to handle, and less expensive to ship.

Aluminum reigns supreme for corrosion resistance without additional treatments for protection after being extruded due to a naturally occurring oxide film that is an inhibitor to rust. Various optional finishes can enhance aluminum’s aesthetic appeal, such as brushing, painting, powder coating, anodizing, painting, media blasting, polishing, or chemical washing. In contrast, steel must be treated or painted to get the same level of protection from rust and corrosion.

Metal Craft, Author at Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping

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Hydroforming vs. Metal Stamping
February 2, 2022 4:32 pm Leave a Comment
Both hydroforming and metal stamping are efficient metal shaping methods. However, their shaping methods are vastly different from one another and offer certain advantages depending on the application. The unique characteristics that make hydroforming ideal for one project can be the very things that make metal stamping the better choice for another project, making it very important to understand the differences between the two methods.

If you’re deciding between hydroforming and metal stamping for your next project, here are some considerations to keep in mind.

Hydroforming

Hydroforming uses high-pressure fluids to form metal parts made from ductile materials, such as stainless steel, carbon steel, copper, or aluminum into specific shapes. These fluids enable hydroforming to produce intricate shapes that other methods cannot and is ideal for applications that require the creation of asymmetrical, complex, or long and shallow components.

Hydroforming’s broad design freedom, high material utilization, reduced part weight, high mechanical strength, and improved dimensional accuracy contributes to its popularity as the chosen manufacturing method for many industries such as automotive, lighting, and appliance industries.

The Hydroforming Process includes the following steps:
- A round disk of metal is first placed over a pre-designed molding tool—either a mechanically driven mandrel or solid female die.
- Hydraulic fluid is pumped at high pressure into a chamber sealed by a strong, flexible rubber diaphragm.
- The hydraulic fluids place pressure on the diaphragm to counter the force of the mandrel to facilitate deep drawing applications. Alternatively, the pressure can be used to force the metal into the female mold to produce shallow convex and concave shapes.
- Pressure is released from the forming chamber.
- The punch is retracted.
- The formed part is removed.
Advantages of Hydroforming
- One comprehensive tool: No mating part is needed and modifications are much simpler, which reduces tooling costs.
- Reduced weight: Because hydroforming is not a subtractive process, thinner materials can be used for the blank, resulting in a lighter end product.
- Minimal to no waste: The material can be precut before entering the hydraulic press, reducing waste.
- Reduced spring back: Increased strength obtained from hydroforming is especially helpful in reducing spring back in closed sections, such as a can or cup.
- Few abrasions: Working with high-pressure fluid, rather than compression, means fewer abrasions.
- Smooth finishes: Hydroforming produces beautifully smooth finishes that require little to no secondary processing.
Metal Stamping

Metal stamping uses pre-formed dies to compress metal sheets and round disks into the desired shape. This process is often chosen for both high-volume and short-run productions due to its low-cost, high-speed process that can produce a high volume of identical metal components. Metal stamping is a traditional technique known for its outstanding repeatability and is ideal for simple components. The Metal Stamping process can leave scoring on the final product making it ideal for products that don’t need a presentable finish without touchups.

The Metal Stamping process includes the following steps:
- Dies and tools are chosen depending on the project.
- Selected tools are attached to the press.
- A flat metal sheet is then manually or automatically fed between the tool and the press.
- The press then compresses the sheet metal against the tool, which forces the metal into the desired shape.
- The formed part is removed.
Advantages of Metal Stamping:
- Consistent, accurate, & repeatable: Once a die is designed, it can produce identical components indefinitely, yielding repeatable accuracy.
- Higher quality components: Consistent, repeatable processes yield high-quality components.
- Cost-efficient: Dies can be affordable tooling options, and the ability to produce high volumes of product quickly makes metal stamping a cost-efficient option.
- Timely: Metal stamping offers high-speed production without sacrificing quality, delivering product gets to market more quickly.
- Exceptional precision: For short-run metal stamping, the inside of a part can be kept within +/- .02-.03 inch of its die.
Hydroforming & Metal Stamping from Metal Craft S&S

Whether hydroforming or metal stamping is the best choice for your project, Metal Craft is committed to quality in both our metal fabrication processes and our customer service. From one-off metal components to a full production run, our knowledge, experience, and extensive equipment resources mean we can provide you with superior metal component forming solutions.

Our commitment to quality, on-time delivery, and personalized customer service began four generations ago and continues today. Contact us or request a quote online for additional information about our hydroforming and metal stamping capabilities and to experience our world-class customer service.
High Cost of Raw Materials: How to Save by Understanding the Supply Chain
January 7, 2022 7:27 pm Leave a Comment
Raw material sourcing issues can have a significant impact on the overall supply chain. Volatility and price fluctuations involving raw material markets create a trickle-down effect that touches every sector. COVID-19 has affected industries more intensely and for a much more extended period than ever anticipated. With an approximately 18% higher Raw Material Price Index last year as compared to 2020 and material prices averaging up due to prolonged instability, despite analysts expecting some stabilizing this year, suppliers would be wise to prepare for the potential of future price increases and volatility.

Raw Material Issue

The beginning of the coronavirus pandemic saw a decrease in demand for most raw materials as consumers and business owners alike shifted their focus to keeping themselves, their families, and others safe by staying home. With diminished demand came decreased production. This, combined with supply chain disruptions and economic instability, has resulted in upheaval and increasing market prices for raw materials. For those suppliers closer to the bottom of the supply chain who depend on raw materials as a large portion of their overall costs, lack of access to cost-effective raw materials can be devastating.

The procurement of raw materials and part sourcing can create an unwelcome disturbance that is not limited in scope. The following industries are just a small number of examples of the widespread impact of problematic raw material sourcing:
- Apparel
- Automotive
- Construction
- Industrial equipment
- Oil and gas
Solutions

The first step to decreasing the impact of rising raw materials costs and shortages is to create a snapshot of your sourcing strengths and vulnerabilities. In determining the actual raw materials used in part production and how that corresponds to demand for parts, you can better forecast your comprehensive material requirements.
- Financial modeling. Procurement departments that are skilled at in-depth monitoring of expenses and evaluating any inherent risk, limit, or variation possibilities enable the broadest hedging options.
- Intensive review of the supply chain. All stages of the supply chain should receive careful consideration to minimize waste, evaluate raw material sourcing locations, and analyze the balance between sustainability and value, with the goal of creating cost savings over time.
- Measurability and sustainability. Leading companies are enacting more environmentally friendly techniques like new recycling methods or reworked product modifications that take both organizational reputation and cost into consideration.
Additionally, OEMs lessen the burden on the part supplier by capturing the contract manufacturers’ raw data for each part. This allows OEMs to better forecast the raw material requirements, allowing for the timely purchase of what they need. Doing so can result in the following:
- Better pricing from suppliers
- Favorable contract terms for procurement departments
- Improved efficiency in supply chain operations
- Shorter lead times for receiving raw materials
Finally, scrap materials can be a significant cost, particularly for larger components. By modifying parts instead, companies can maximize material yield and save on scrap metal expenses. Additionally, another way to cut costs is to consider changing the type of material used if the current material is in high demand or requires additional steps to process.

Looking to the Future

Creating a greener economy starts with business leaders who embrace a futuristic vision and adopt stewardship measures. Traditionally, OEMs, contract manufacturers, and suppliers have looked to the past or to guesswork for forecasting raw material demand in the future. However, choosing to better understand the supply chain and the raw materials used in products, then sharing that information with the sources of those materials, allows OEMs to improve their cost of doing business both now and in the future.

Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping has over 56 years of experience and has grown to produce thousands of items for supply to customers across North America. With a commitment to exceeding our customers’ expectations through quality products and innovation coupled with on-time delivery, we can provide precise, accurate metal parts to fulfill your project requirements.

Contact us today or request a quote, and we will be in touch to see how we can meet your metal forming needs.
Hand Spinning vs. CNC Spinning
October 19, 2021 11:49 pm Leave a Comment
Metal spinning is a rimless metalworking technique that stretches back from the era of artisans and craftsmen in the past to today’s mass manufacturers. While techniques in the past were forged in manual work, modern processes use a combination of both hand spinning and processes governed by CNC machinery. By rotating a metal workpiece at high speeds around a fixed axis, metal-spinning tools can cut and shape the metal into an axially symmetrical product. In mass manufacturing, the first stages of metal spinning are completed by automated machines before being finished by hand. This process is popular across multiple different industries.

In this guide, learn more about the similarities, differences, and applications of both hand spinning and CNC spinning processes.

Hand Spinning vs. CNC Spinning: Similarities

Both hand and CNC spinning operate off of the same basic principles. They transform workpieces of metal into a range of shapes, such as tubes, bell-shaped parts, and spherical components along a fixed axis of symmetry. Both processes are also fast, which make them especially advantageous for creating prototypes.

In fact, spinning is one of the fastest processes for forming metal goods; other popular processes such as metal stamping can’t keep up. This increases the efficiency of spinning-based production processes, as does the minimal amount of waste the process creates.

Hand Spinning vs. CNC Spinning: Differences

Hand and CNC-spinning processes do have some crucial differences that you can use to determine which is the right fit for your next project.

Hand spinning is a much more manual process than its modern CNC alternative. The technician controls the spinning speed while operating forming forces to produce the final shape. This allows for fine-tuned control and artistry. It’s also more cost-effective for the production of prototypes, unique pieces, and small-volume orders.

Because hand operators exert less force on the metal, it also tends to be used with fragile or ductile metal that need a more delicate touch like O-tempered aluminum and some stainless steels. It’s also the preferred choice for precious and semi-precious metals.

CNC-metal spinning, on the other hand, is controlled predominantly by automated CNC machinery. These machines interpret instructions from a design file and follow those strict steps to create virtually identical part after part. The machinery controls hydraulic presses that force the metal workpiece into shape, and it determines how long the hydraulics are engaged and how fast the workpiece spins. It offers complete accuracy in a way manually controlled processes can’t guarantee.

Because of this consistency, CNC spinning is the preferred choice for manufacturing products that need high volumes of identical parts within strict tolerances. CNC machinery can also exert more force through the hydraulic presses, making it a superior choice for hard materials that are difficult to form. However, it can also handle metals with >2% ductility.

Hand Spinning vs. CNC Spinning: Applications

Hand-spinning processes commonly form these products:
- Beverage can prototypes
- Satellite parts
- Aircraft parts
- Semiconductor manufacturing equipment parts
- Antennas
CNC spinning processes are used to form large volumes of high-precision products in these industries:
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Clothing
- Food and beverage
- Healthcare
- Military components
- Mining
Contact Us at Metal Craft S&S for High-Quality Metal Spinning

Both hand spinning and CNC spinning processes can craft high-quality metal products across multiple different industries. At Metal Craft S&S, we offer hand spinning and CNC spinning services. Contact us today to learn more about our capabilities or request a quote for pricing details.
Galvanized Steel vs. Stainless Steel: Which Is the Better Choice?
October 13, 2021 11:41 pm Leave a Comment
Both stainless steel and galvanized steel are strong and durable, but each one has specific advantages, depending on the application. When it comes to galvanized steel vs. stainless steel, you have to understand the difference between the two and consider what type of product you’re making and what demands it will face in its environment. From there, the best choice for you will become clear.

What Is Galvanized Steel vs. Stainless Steel?

Galvanized steel is coated with zinc to protect it from rust, while stainless steel is an alloy made with at least 10% chromium for the same reason: to guard against rust and corrosion. There are several types of stainless steel, each determined by the type and amount of additional materials, like chromium, as well as nickel, titanium, manganese, and/or molybdenum, present in the steel:
- Austenitic stainless steel
- Ferritic stainless steel
- Long-wearing martensitic steel
- Duplex stainless steel
- Precipitation-hardening stainless steel
Benefits & Drawbacks of Galvanized Steel vs. Stainless Steel

The strengths and weaknesses of each type of steel will help you determine whether it’s right for your application:

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is water-resistant, but it does not hold up well under salt water. When compared to stainless steel, it’s easier to work with and much less expensive. For many construction applications, galvanized steel is a trusted, economical choice, as long as it won’t be in contact with salt water.

However, one drawback is in the welding process: the zinc coating releases toxic fumes that can contribute to flu-like symptoms and discomfort, so it’s important for welders to have the proper protective equipment. Because welding removes the zinc in the welding area, that area is subject to corrosion. In many situations, it may be preferable to galvanize the steel after the welding process is complete.

Stainless Steel

Exceptionally strong and rust-resistant, stainless steel withstands contact with both fresh and salt water—but not chlorinated water, which will cause the steel to degrade quickly. It offers more corrosion resistance than galvanized steel, making it a great choice for marine and aerospace applications.

One major drawback is the cost: stainless steel can be about five times more expensive than galvanized steel. It also requires highly skilled welders with exceptional patience and control. Further, stainless steel can weld itself together if two pieces are in contact and the friction rubs through the coating, which could be a concern in certain applications.

Applications of Galvanized Steel vs. Stainless Steel

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Hinges, gaskets, and fasteners like nuts, bolts, screws, and nails are often made of galvanized steel to withstand extreme weather conditions. In high-moisture environments, like automobile exhaust pipes, marine applications, and the aerospace industry, stainless steel is typically the best choice.

Choosing between galvanized and stainless steel comes down to your application. For example, galvanized steel is not effective in marine applications. In that situation, stainless steel is essential.

However, in most circumstances, galvanized steel is going to be the more economical option. Materials and labor are both more affordable, and you can still depend on galvanized steel’s strength and long service life.

At Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping, we’ve been producing high-quality products for our clients for nearly 60 years. As a fourth-generation family-operated company, we’re committed to building long-term, trusted relationships with our clients by providing on-time delivery, a collaborative process, and a personalized approach to every project. Request a quote today, or contact us to learn more about our products and services and whether galvanized steel or stainless steel is best for your project.
Aluminum vs. Steel
May 17, 2021 3:50 pm 1 Comment
Steel and aluminum are materials found in virtually every industry for a variety of industrial and consumer products. While they look similar, there are considerable differences between the two. In this blog, we’ll discuss both materials and their differences to help you determine the best one for your application.

Strength and Malleability

Aluminum is more elastic and ductile, allowing it to be bent, extruded, or stretched without cracking or breaking. It increases strength in colder environments, although it is susceptible to dents and scratches. In contrast, steel is tough and resilient but has the added risks of rust and corrosion, as well as cracking or ripping during spinning due to reduced malleability and ductility. However, it is a much harder and more durable material than aluminum, making it resistant to bending or warping from heat, weight, or force, or heat.

Weight

Aluminum vs. steel weight is a significant determinant in which material is preferable for applications where every extra pound can decrease speed, aerodynamics, and fuel efficiency. In those applications, aluminum is clearly superior as it is lightweight, easy to handle, and less expensive to ship. When durability is the primary concern, the weight of steel makes it the optimal choice due to the high concentration of carbon that results in 5x the weight and density of aluminum. However, shape and structural rigidity are other significant factors in the strength of a material, making aluminum a viable option at half the weight of steel.

Corrosion Resistance

Aluminum reigns supreme for corrosion resistance without additional treatments for protection after being extruded due to a naturally occurring oxide film that is an inhibitor to rust. Various optional finishes can enhance aluminum’s aesthetic appeal, such as brushing, painting, powder coating, anodizing, painting, media blasting, polishing, or chemical washing. In contrast, steel must be treated or painted to get the same level of protection from rust and corrosion. If steel is required for applications exposed to moisture, humidity, or abrasion, it must be treated appropriately to keep it from degrading.

Cost

When comparing stainless steel vs. aluminum cost, steel is frequently less expensive per pound than aluminum. However, the price of metals fluctuates constantly depending on fuel costs, price and availability of bauxite ore and iron, and global supply and demand. The price of steel can also depend upon the type. Carbon steel and mild steel are generally less expensive, while the cost of stainless steel can exceed that of aluminum.

Quality Services From Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping

There is no one winner when comparing aluminum vs. steel. They each have beneficial qualities that make them highly desirable and widely used across numerous industries and applications. Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping has over half a century of experience supplying hundreds of customers across North America with accurate, dependable services for both aluminum and steel, including stamping, metal spinning, hydroforming, and waterjet cutting services. We use cutting-edge technology and equipment along with a company-wide dedication to quality.

Contact us today to discuss your needs or for questions about our services and capabilities. Get pricing by submitting a quote request with a few details about your project.
Venturi Valve: What You Need to Know
April 17, 2021 3:39 pm Leave a Comment
What Is a Venturi Valve?

A venturi valve is an hourglass-shaped tube, with either end of the valve having a wider diameter than the narrowed center. Inside the valve is a cone that moves parallel to the body of the valve. As pressure within the valve changes, the cone moves forward or backward to modify flow rates through the valve assembly.

Venturi valves are specifically designed to provide flow regulation in response to pressure changes. HVAC ducts use venturi valves as airflow control valves to regulate and maintain airflow through the system. Unlike other methods, the venturi valve independently regulates airflow in response to changes in static pressure, without the need for communication between system components. The independence and fine control offered by venturi valves makes them ideal for maintaining both constant and variable airflow based on external conditions.

Venturi Valve Options

Venturi valves are available in a variety of factory-programmed calibrations to meet the specific requirements of numerous applications. They can be composed of a wide range of materials, including aluminum and steel, and are often treated or coated to enhance strength, chemical resistance, and corrosion resistance. Thermal insulation can also be added to the valve to reduce thermal loss and increase energy savings. Numerous valve flow designs are available depending on the needs of your application.

Constant and actuated valves are the two most common venturi valve designs. Constant volume venturi valves are engineered to provide a steady flow of air or fluid through the valve, regardless of duct pressure fluctuations. They are best suited for outdoor airflow regulation, ventilated cabinets, and biological safety cabinets. Actuated valves are typically used in dynamic systems where quick valve operation is critical. They use a cone situated on top of a shaft to restrict the flow of air through the valve opening to ensure consistent control.

Advantages of Venturi Valves

Venturi valves offer a variety of benefits for a wide range of applications and industries, including hospitals, universities, biological safety cabinets, and laboratories. They are incorporated into ventilation and HVAC systems to provide consistent, accurate control of pressure, temperature, and airflow.

Venturi valves are highly sensitive and operate independently, making them quick to respond and reducing the need for extensive room pressurization testing. They react extremely quickly to signals, making them perfect for sensitive operations in labs and ventilated cabinets.

Some venturi valve designs incorporate full shutoffs, which will keep the valve closed when not in operation in order to save energy. This energy efficiency is compounded by thermal insulation, which reduces thermal loss.

Why Partner with Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping?

Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping is a premier manufacturer of quality HVAC system components, including venturi valves. Our state-of-the-art metal spinning manufacturing process allows us to create highly durable, long-lasting components that can withstand even the most extreme operating conditions. We are pleased to offer venturi valves in a wide range of materials, including aluminum, cold-rolled steel, and stainless steel, and we are capable of providing custom manufactured valves in a wide range of sizes.

In addition to our exceptional metal spinning techniques, we use laser cutting technology to enhance your product quality. Using cutting-edge laser technology, we ensure highly accurate, symmetrical fan housings for optimal valve operation. With decades of experience, we understand the unique complexity of venturi valves, and we ensure highly effective, durable designs based on customer requirements and specifications.

Contact the Experts at Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping

Since 1964, Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping has been pleased to offer a wide range of metal manufacturing services, including metal stamping and spinning, hydroforming, waterjet cutting, and engineering. We pride ourselves on producing quality products and components for customers in every industry, from architecture and industrial installations to HVAC systems, lighting fixtures, and even furniture. To learn more about our venturi valves and other products and services, contact us today or request a quote to start your order.
Why Should I Use CNC Waterjet Cutting?
March 23, 2021 3:13 pm 1 Comment

Waterjet cutting is a fabrication process that utilizes high-pressure streams of water (i.e., water jets) to cut materials into the desired shape and size. It can be categorized into two primary methods: pure waterjet cutting and abrasive waterjet cutting. Pure waterjet cutting uses water jets with no added media. It is typically employed for cutting softer, non-metallic materials, such as plastic, rubber, and foam. Abrasive waterjet cutting use waterjets with added abrasive particles. It is suitable for cutting harder materials, such as metals, glass, and stone.

While both waterjet cutting methods offer distinct advantages that make them suitable for particular applications, waterjet cutting, in general, can be used for a wide range of manufacturing projects, especially when integrated with computer numerical control (CNC) technology. Below, we highlight the advantages of CNC waterjet cutting.

Advantages of CNC Waterjet Cutting

There are many advantages to using CNC waterjet cutting over other cutting processes. For example:
- It offers broad material suitability. CNC waterjet cutters can cut through virtually any material used in general fabrication operations.
- It carries no risk of human error. Since CNC waterjet cutters are preprogrammed, there is minimal risk of a cutting operation proceeding incorrectly unless there is a programming error or machine malfunction.
- It produces precise and accurate cuts. Compared to manual cutting operations, CNC waterjet cutting offers greater cutting precision and accuracy. It can consistently produce net-shape or near-net-shape parts from piece to piece and batch to batch. As a result, it decreases the need for any secondary procession operations to bring the parts to spec.
- It accommodates complex shapes. CNC waterjet cutters can create highly complex three-dimensional shapes that would be impossible to produce using manual cutting machines.
- It leaves no heat-affected zone (HAZ). As a cold cutting process, waterjet cutting does not generate significant amounts of heat, which reduces the risk of heat-related issues like thermal distortion or hardened edges. This quality is advantageous for components with exacting requirements.
- It requires minimal fixturing. Waterjet cutters require minimal workpiece fixturing, which shortens setup time and reduces equipment costs for cutting operations.
- It creates little to no waste. The waterjet cutting process generates little to no hazardous waste and accommodates water recycling through the use of closed-loop systems. Together, these qualities reduce waste generation and disposal costs. Additionally, since the process can achieve smaller cutting kerfs and higher cutting precision, individual parts can be placed closer together, allowing manufacturers to maximize the material utilization to waste generation ratio.
- It is safe for machine operators. Waterjet cutting does not produce any dust or hazardous gases that can negatively affect operator health.
Waterjet Cutting Solutions at Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping

Looking for a waterjet cutting service provider for your next manufacturing project? Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping is the ideal partner. We’ve provided metal fabrication services for over 50 years. This extensive experience, combined with our state-of-the-art equipment, gives us the knowledge, skills, and tools we need to deliver high-quality metal components that fully meet your specifications and standards. Whether you require assistance with waterjet cutting or another manufacturing process, we’ve got you covered!

For a waterjet cutting partner committed to quality, on-time delivery, and personalized customer service, contact us today.
Copper Post Cap Production and Applications
March 10, 2021 2:23 pm 2 Comments
Wooden decks and fencing need to be protected from the elements to keep them rot-free for extended periods of time. To achieve this, fitted caps can be installed on the top of posts in order to preserve them. While these caps can be produced from many materials, copper is a particularly long-lasting and attractive choice.

At Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping, we offer copper post caps designed to enhance the architectural features of your home or building while preventing wood rot. As a cost-effective protection option, our copper post caps are simple to install, and they are compatible with most post sizes. Copper post caps offer many benefits, making them useful in a wide range of applications.

Copper: A Smart Choice in Post Cap Production

Copper is a widely used alloy, and its beautiful appearance has led it to become particularly popular in decorative applications. Additionally, its excellent ability to conduct heat and electricity along with its high resistance to corrosion and good formability has allowed it to be used in many industries, with applications in roofing, lighting, and electronics.

One significant attribute of copper is that it can be remelted and used again without losing any of its chemical or physical properties. This has led it to be one of the most widely recycled metals. Copper can also be combined with other metals to form alloys, with the two most common copper alloys being brass and bronze.

How Post Caps Are Made

When producing copper post caps, the first step is to specify the required size and decide on which design elements the finished product will have. Next, metal stamping and spinning processes shape flat metal into the desired post cap shape. Metal spinning can be used to create products from 1 inch to 8 inches in diameter, while metal stamping is used to create many shapes and features.

Spinning and stamping are both cost-effective processes with quick production times that lead to a weld-free, smooth finished product. Whether you require high or low volume production, Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping can manufacture the metal components you need. If you need help selecting the best metal forming technique for your application, our experts are here to assist you with every step of the process.

Copper Post Cap Applications

Copper post caps are not only decorative features that add to the beauty of your property, but they’re also an extremely important protective asset for your posts. Properly capped posts remain in good condition for years, saving you lots of money on the cost of replacement. Post caps can be produced according to nearly any design plan to match your personal taste and style preferences.

There are many possible applications for copper post caps including:
- Marine decks
- Yard decks
- Rail posts
- Fences
- Mailboxes
- Arbors
- Gates
- Lampposts
Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping delivers custom-fitted post caps according to the specific measurements and design ideas of your project. Whatever your application, our team of metal-forming specialists will deliver accurately fabricated pieces.

Copper Post Caps from Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping

If you’re considering adding copper caps to beautify and preserve your fence or deck posts, Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping has a cost-effective custom design solution that will meet all of your needs. Copper in particular provides a sophisticated look that will continue to shine well into the future. For more information about our copper post caps, or to get started on your next project, contact us today.
The Value of a Custom Metal Spinning and Stamping Partner for Commercial and Industrial Lighting Needs
October 21, 2020 1:02 pm 1 Comment
Lighting is a critical element of industrial and commercial facilities. In addition to illuminating working and living spaces, it is used to encourage purchasing behaviors in consumers, establish conditions that boost employee alertness, morale, and productivity, and create areas within facilities that are both functional and aesthetic. The design, configuration, and luminescence level of a lighting system are generally tailored to accommodate the unique requirements and restrictions of the specific application.

The following article outlines the differences between the lighting systems used in commercial and industrial facilities with regard to the applications in which they are used. It also provides an overview of the custom lighting products and engineering capabilities available at Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping.

Commercial Lighting Applications vs. Industrial Lighting Applications

As indicated above, lighting systems are used in commercial and industrial environments. While commercial and industrial lighting systems consist of the basic same components, they are used in different types of facilities for different purposes. For example, in the commercial sector, lighting systems are often used in the following facilities for the following purposes:
- Government institutions to brighten areas highly trafficked areas such as lobbies, hallways, and halls
- Hospitals to improve employee visibility during delicate procedures and ensure personnel remain awake and alert
- Offices to keep employees alert and encourage productivity
- Retail stores to create bright and inviting environments for customers
- Roads and sidewalks to improve visibility for drivers and walkers
- Schools, colleges, and universities to provide lighting conditions that improve the functional and aesthetic qualities of the various areas
In the industrial sector, lighting systems are often found in the following types of facilities:
- Chemical manufacturing plants
- Ethanol plants
- Grain processing/storage locations
- Inspection/defect detection areas
- Loading/unloading areas such as loading docks
- Manufacturing and warehousing facilities
- Marine locations such as coastal facilities, oil rigs, and ships and shipyards
- Mines
- Outdoor stadiums, arenas, and sports fields
- Paint/power/blast booth facilities
- Petrochemical plants
- Pulp/paper mills
- Water and wastewater treatment plants
- Wet/damp areas such as elevator pits, food and beverage processing plants, and wash bays
- Woodworking shops
Custom Lighting Products at Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping

At Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping, we specialize in manufacturing custom metal components for customers across a wide range of industries. We’ve produced lighting fixtures and lighting reflectors for industrial and commercial lighting systems for over 50 years. This extensive experience, combined with our state-of-the-art metalworking equipment, allows us to deliver solutions for highly specific or unique lighting applications.

While we generally use aluminum for our lighting components due to its light material weight and reflective surface, we can also accommodate brass, copper, stainless steel, and cold-rolled steel. We also offer plating, anodizing, and metalizing services to customize the lighting fixture or reflector to meet the customer’s exact needs.

Engineering Capabilities at Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping

Equipped with several years of industry experience, our engineering experts have the knowledge and skills to help customers bring their lighting concepts to life. Our engineering capabilities include:
- Design assistance. We provide advice and support throughout the design process to ensure the final product meets your needs. We accept a number of different file formats to make it easy for you to submit your designs.
- Reverse engineering. If you have a preexisting design or product, we can reverse engineer the design so you can modify or refine it to better suit your current specifications and standards and/or reduce production costs.
- Value engineering. Upon request, our engineering team can evaluate your existing products and services to determine whether it could and should be optimized to improve functionality and/or production and operating costs.
Custom Industrial and Commercial Lighting Solutions at Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping

If you need custom metal components for your industrial or commercial lighting system, Metal Craft Spinning & Stamping is here to help. Equipped with decades of metalworking experience, we can produce lighting fixtures and reflectors in a wide range of shapes and sizes to suit nearly any lighting system. To learn more about our manufacturing capabilities for lighting systems or discuss your application requirements with one of our experts, contact us today.
What Makes a Great Waterjet Cutter
July 28, 2020 6:03 pm Leave a Comment
Waterjet cutting is a modern fabrication method that uses high-speed, high-pressure streams of water to cut material into a desired shape. It is a versatile process used to cut everything from foam and rubber to steel alloy and titanium. With the addition of garnet or other abrasives, waterjets can cut increasingly harder and more durable materials with ease. In fact, waterjets are often designed with nozzles that toggle between abrasive and water-only cutting. These specialized nozzles allow users to alternate quickly from one to the other and work on a variety of materials with minimal downtime between runs.

Although the process is fundamentally the same, not every waterjet cutter is ideal for all applications. At Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping, we go through an extensive vetting process to ensure we have the right cutter for every job. Here’s a look at the behind-the-scenes work that goes into our waterjet cutting services.

What Is a Waterjet Cutter?

A waterjet cutter is a computerized system that directs high-velocity, high-density jets of water to cleanly and accurately cut a broad range of materials, including rubber, stone, metal, plastic composites, and more. The water emitted by a waterjet can exert up to 392 MPa of force, and operators can adjust the velocity, pressure, and width to cut with exceptional precision. Specialty spray nozzles are as small as 0.1 mm in diameter—about the same size as a sharp pencil point.

What Makes a Good Waterjet Cutter?

When we purchase a waterjet cutter, we consider the following factors:
- Work Environment: High-production and 3D cutters are typically 8 x 16 ft or larger. Our facility has been carefully designed to accommodate the best-performing industrial equipment onsite, so our clients don’t need to allocate a dedicated space for housing units within their organization.
- Accuracy and Repeatability: Precision is a key hallmark of a good waterjet cutter. Our waterjet cutters meet high standards for accuracy and repeatability to help our customers avoid secondary processing operations.
- Waterjet Pressure: The waterjet pressure capacity determines which materials the machine can fabricate. If we need to cut soft materials like foam or rubber, a lower pressure may be acceptable, but for hard materials like metal and ceramic, we use cutter settings and equipment with higher pressure capabilities.
- Cutting Speed: The best nozzle for any given application depends on the material and production speed requirements. A small nozzle with low horsepower will cut materials slower than a large, high-powered nozzle. Compared to other fabrication methods, waterjet cutting usually works the fastest, especially when it comes to materials with a hard Mohs-scale rating.
- Energy Requirements: Cutters that operate at higher horsepower will use more energy, while lower-pressure cutters require less. As an all-in-one metal fabrication and stamping facility, we’ve optimized our system to handle the energy demand with ease.
- Versatility: At Metal Craft, we offer custom waterjet cutting services, which means our equipment must be versatile to suit many applications.
Here are a few of the most common shapes we produce:
- Dished
- Domed
- Flanged
- Hemisphere
- Semi-elliptical
- Trumpet
We can also create any combination or variation of these designs and serve customers with small- and large-scale production sizes.

2D vs. 3D Waterjet Cutter

Waterjet cutters are available with both 2D- and 3D-cutting heads. 2D systems are designed to cut at an angle perpendicular to the base material. They can operate on X, Y, and Z axes using both abrasive and non-abrasive waterjets. 2D abrasive waterjet cutting heads are typically used for hard and thick materials, while 2D water-only heads can be used to create fine cuts on thin, soft materials, like plastic, rubber, and fabric.

3D waterjet cutting systems, on the other hand, operate on a wider range of angles and are used for more intricate pieces. They are available with both abrasive and non-abrasive heads and can be used on a variety of materials. Since 3D cutters can operate from any angle around the workpiece, fabricators must enact strict safety measures to prevent accidents. At Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping, we take pride in our fourth-generation family business and prioritize a safe work environment.

Superior Waterjet Cutting Services From Metal Craft

Since 1969, Metal Craft Spinning and Stamping has been the premier provider of top-quality metal cutting services. From metal spinning to stamping, hydroforming, and waterjet cutting, we have the knowledge and state-of-the-art equipment necessary to meet all your metal fabrication needs. We are committed to providing on-time delivery, accurate metal components, and exceptional customer service.

For more information on our waterjet cutting services, contact us today or request a quote. Our seasoned experts are happy to help you determine the ideal manufacturing solution for your next project.