Working Procedure

Materials we work with

Typical Stages Of Part Development

  1. Contact Metal Craft to obtain a quote
  2. Send a drawing or sketch containing all of the necessary information i.e., dimensions, quantities, material
  3. Metal Craft will supply you with a quotation
  4. Once approved, tooling and sample parts are supplied
  5. Sample is approved
  6. Production run begins
  7. A Happy Customer!!

Metal Spinning Procedure

  • Prepare a drawing of the metal piece that is to be spun on the lathe
  • Make tooling of the appropriate shape.
  • Cut the metal disc corresponding to the piece.
  • Start lathe and select proper cutting tool
  • Insert the metal spinning pin in the t-bar rest. Adjust rest so that the tool is at a slight angle against the pin.
  • Apply waxy lubrication to the outer surface of the metal spinning on the lathe.
  • Hold the tool with right hand placing the handle under your arm
  • Apply pressure to the metal spinning on the lathe by moving the tool from the center to the outer edge of the metal.

Safety

  • Never stand directly in line with the disc.
  • Make sure the metal disc does not have any defects that could cause the metal to break when metal spinning
  • Always wear safety glasses and gloves during the metal spinning process
  • Make sure the metal piece is securely clamped between the chuck and follower block
  • Be sure the tail stock is locked
  • Make sure operating controls are in proper working condition
  • Keep the lathe clean and clear of debris
  • Whenever possible always use the safety guard.

Pre-Design Basics
It is preferable to specify the inside diameter (I.D.) and associated tolerances
Since the outside diameter will vary due to the material thin out. If necessary, a specific outside diameter (O.D.) can be maintained.
Corner radii should be specified at 2 to 3 times material thickness. Tighter radii can be achieved on thicker material and through secondary operations
If concentricity is critical, specify the Total Indicated Runout (TIR) and indicate if this applies in the restrained or unrestrained condition of the part.

Working closely with your spinning supplier during the design phase may significantly improve formability and reduce cost. If a tight tolerance is required in a small area, only specify that area. The erroneous assumption that the tight tolerancing applies to the entire part will dramatically increase the price of the part. Surface finish is affected by the material thickness, tool condition, forming speed and other factors. If the specified surface cannot be achieved through spinning, secondary operations can be performed. Any formable metal can be spun, however, the stronger the material the more difficult the spinning.