[dyocum]

Can I use a standard CNC lathe to form sheet metal into cones and funnels over a mandrel or do I need a purpose built cnc metal spinning (spin forming) machine? I manage a small production support machine shop and would like to justify a small cnc lathe someday but I was recently asked to investigate how we could make our own small product funnels in-house. I see they can easily be formed by metal spinning but purpose built cnc metal spinning machines may not work the best for general cnc lathe made parts. I would like to be able to spin sheet metal parts and turn standard parts on one machine if possible. I found this economical purpose built metal spinning machine http://http://www.dmsdesignco.com/in...DMS-Revolution but it doesn't have the capacity I would like for a standard cnc lathe. The standard cnc lathe size I am looking for is something similar to a Haas TL-2 toolroom lathe. A cnc spinning machine with a 20" blank capacity would work fine. Any direction or information would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Bob La Londe]

Small? Watch some of the metal spinnijg videos on YuoTube. Most of those machines seem to be MORE powerful and massive than the average shop lathe.

That being said, I imagine you could "do" metal spinning on any rotary source within its physical limitations of size, power, etc.

[txcncman]

The Haas TL-2 probably has the horsepower needed, but not the RPM range.

[gridley51]

I used to have a couple of Boko hydraulic spinning lathes.ISTR blank capacity about 28" and they weighed ten tons each.
A lot of stresses involved.

[Geof]

In general metal spinning involves low rpm and very high forces on the spindle, I guess high forces on anything. I don't think any CNC machine would have the brute strength needed to survive metal spinning unless the spun parts were small and thin. Small funnels may be possible on a TL2 but it would be a good idea to find out the forces invloved and compare them with the maximum X and Z servo thrust for the TL2.

[dyocum]

Thank you to all that posted. It looks like I am looking for a dedicated machine. I will do more research and see what I can come up with. Thanks again.

[DGSpin]

Hello Dyocum,

My company specializes in finding, reconditioning and retrofitting used CNC metal spinning machines. I was directed to your thread and joined the group.

I might be able to help you in your search and it would be good if we could talk first. Check out; DG Associates | CNC Spinforming Equipment for my direct contact information.

Hope to hear from you soon!

Regards,
Dave