Metal Spinning

Overview

KIHM specializes in manual metal spinning which forms symmetrical hollow geometries such as cylinders, cones or hemispherical shapes. These types of shapes are accomplished by forming sheet metal blank using a roller tool to sweep across the metal such that it forms it to the shape of a mandrel as it turns on a spinning lathe.  KIHM has the capability and process knowledge to spin shapes up to 72” in diameter and specializes in exotic alloys such as Inconel™, Haynes™, Waspaloy™, and Rene™ Alloys.

Geometries / Shapes

Based on the nature of the process the shapes best suited for metal spinning are hollow symmetrical geometries such as cylinders, cones, and hemispherical geometries. Surface geometry along the axial length of the shape may be varied as well, for example a nozzle shape similar to an hour glass is achievable. It is also important to note that KIHM has the complementary precision finishing services (Laser and Complex Machining) to add final details such as thru holes or machined surfaces.

Materials

Most metals may be spun, however KIHM Specializes in super alloy or exotic metal forming. Materials such as Inconel™, Haynes™, and Hastalloy™ are typically where KIHM finds the most savings for their customers. As metal spinning allows for large hollow shapes with axial variation which otherwise would require significant machining / subtractive methods to achieve. By spinning these expensive hard metal alloys KIHM can provide significant savings to their customers, with an additional benefit of improved mechanical properties as compared to a machined component. KIHM is most successful when material thickness is within this range .006 - .187

Advantages

Tooling. Metal spinning of exotic or super alloys does require tooling, however the tooling in most cases will last for the lifetime of the product. KIHM’s experience in spin tool development allows optimized tooling, such that thinning, follow on trimming and material spring back are controlled.

Prototyping. Because tooling is minimized metal spinning can be a good fit for prototyping of complex components.  As the design concept evolves tooling may be adjusted to match the part and quickly produce more prototypes.

Cost. Given a suitable geometry Metal Spinning can be a very cost effect way to produce large diameter hollow shapes.

Aerospace-Specific Examples

Combustion liners, shrouds, cases, case segments, seals, frame assemblies, combustion chamber components, exhaust cones, and exhaust nozzles.