Frequently Asked Questions

• Metal is shaped over a mandrel or form (chuck) on an automatic or manual spinning lathe, using force and various tools.
• Spinning can create pans, bowls, cans, cones, convex/concave, neck downs, etc…
• It takes a very skilled workman to correctly shape and finish a hand spun piece.

• Several operations can be performed in one set-up.
• Forming parameters and part geometry can be altered quickly, at less cost than traditional metal forming techniques.
• Tooling costs are comparatively low
• Automation can be used in high volume production runs
• Creates less waste than other methods.
• Lead times are usually shorter than stamping.

• Higher production volumes greatly impact the unit cost as it allows for automation and better distribution of set up costs.
• Specifying critical dimensions on the part allows IMS to design tooling and plan production to best fit the needs of the part.  Many critical dimensions can have a negative impact on overall cost.
• Generous tolerances can eliminate steps such as trim.  Cost can be driven up by the tendency to over tolerance parts.

• longer life, larger runs, less wear (10k – 25k pieces)
• highest quality parts
• tighter corner radii
• higher cost up front

Dynablock (wood composite)

• good shelf life
• does not warp or crack
• can deteriorate quickly on corner radii, beaded or other high pressure areas
• very good quality
• no ply marks like wood
• slightly more costly than wood

Wood

• limited shelf life (2-3 years if used sparingly)
• used mainly for parts 40” diameter or larger
• tends to warp, crack and pop even when not in use
• good quality part on limited runs (100-500 pieces)
• ply marks can be seen on parts over time
• not recommended for small to middle sized parts
• lowest cost option

• Spinning requires O-temper and/or soft alloy materials
• Material will thin during spinning process
• Brass/stainless parts will not run the same as other materials (flare)

• When utilizing existing tooling

- cannot change the physical characteristics of the spinning itself given the way tooling is cut/designed

• Minor changes in dimensions or configuration may mean that new tooling would be required

• A center hole is a plus

            - simplifies spinning process

            - reduces cost

            - a change in hole size may mean that a tool/pin would need to be modified

• More holes of different sizes in varying locations add to part costs

• Holes on walls of parts

- if needed, consider using a slotted hole versus a round hole if possible

- location of holes will also influence the difficulty of adding the holes