Metal spinning and hydroforming are two of the most utilized industrial processes in manufacturing a wide-range of products from satellite dishes, gas cylinders, lighting hardware, to musical instruments, and more. Understanding each method and its benefits will help you decide which metal forming technique best suits your application.
What Is Hydroforming?
Hydroforming Irregular PartsSheet hydroforming is a metal fabrication technique that leverages pressurized fluid to form and shape ductile metal into desired components using pre-shaped plates or dies. Hydroforming is a quick, efficient, and affordable metal forming method that reduces wastage while guaranteeing structurally robust parts and components.
Hydroforming offers many advantages over other methods, such as stamping, especially when shaping intricate, exceptionally complex, or asymmetrical components. Hydroforming is ideal for shaping carbon and stainless steels, copper, aluminum, bronze, and brass.
Helander provides hydroforming for various industries, including aerospace and defense, commercial food equipment, satellite communications, medical equipment, and more.
What Is Metal Spinning?
Metal Spinning Stainless Steels (300 and 400 Series)Metal spinning is the forming process used to make hollow parts, typically with a circular cross-section. Metal spinning transforms a metal disc or tube, known as a blank, by rotating it on a lathe and pressing it against a tool, called a mandrel, which forms the blank into a conical, toroidal, or other round shape.
Metal spinning can be done in automatic CNC machines, hydraulic-assist machines or by manually hand spinning. Spinning equipment is chosen based on production volume and intricacy of the part. Spinning can also be performed hot or cold, depending on material.
Hydroforming or Metal Spinning?
Hydroforming and metal spinning are top-notch fabrication techniques, used in a myriad of industries to produce vital parts and components. Each method has its unique advantages and the method you choose will largely depend on the specifics of your application.
Advantages of Hydroforming
Hydroforming is a smart alternative to conventional methods, such as stamping, for a variety of reasons, including:
Fast & Efficient: Hydroforming takes about 20 seconds to form seamless, structurally sound parts within +/- 0.003” tolerance and reduces the need for secondary finishing operations.
Complex shapes: Hydroforming is ideal for creating complex , unusually-shaped parts.
Cost-Effective: Hydroforming is suitable and cost-effective for short, medium, and large production runs. Hydroforming is ideal for prototyping due to the high versatility in regard to design changes.
Sustainable: Hydroforming produces little to no scrap, especially when compared to metal stamping.
Advantages of Metal Spinning
Metal spinning offers advantages for a versatile, streamlined process, including:
Design Flexibility: Metal spinning can change quickly to accommodate evolving product designs, allowing for maximal flexibility whenever a need arises.
Seamless, High-Quality: Metal spinning produces smooth, durable parts without seams or welds for components that require superior strength and aesthetic.
Lower-Cost Tooling: Compared to the tooling in alternative forming methods, like stamping, casting, & forging, metal spinning tools are typically 10% of the cost.
Short-Lead Times: The metal spinning process allows for significantly shorter turnaround-times. Tooling and spun components can be available within weeks.
Hydroforming & Metal Spinning Applications
Custom Spun Metal ServicesBoth hydroforming and metal spinning techniques are used in a range of industries, including:
Aerospace & Defense – satellites, aircraft components
Commercial Food Equipment & Cookware – cook surfaces, seasoned pots & pans
Architectural Design – light reflectors, fixtures
Energy – solar, steam, & wind energy equipment, as well as fuel cells
Industrial – OEM partner for HVAC, filtrations & separation, pressure vessels
Medical – medical imaging housing, laboratory equipment
Oil & Agriculture – oil drilling, piping
Vehicle Components – hot rod components, wheel rimes, steel housings.
XTJ is a leading OEM Manufacturer that is dedicated to providing one-stop manufacturing solutions of Machining 6061 Aluminum from prototype to production. We are proud to be an ISO 9001 certified system quality management company and we are determined to create value in every customer relationship. We do that through collaboration, innovation, process improvements, and exceptional workmanship.lication: Automotive industry, Bicycle and motorcycle, Door and windows and furniture, Household appliance, Gas meter, Power tool,LED lighting, Medical instrument parts, ect.
