Setting up a metal spinning machine to run parts is a multi-step process – prepping the machine, mounting all of the forming and cutting tools and programming the machine. While the program is of course crucial to making the part to print within a competitive time frame, properly setting up the forming tools is critical.
Tools that don’t run concentrically or loosen during processing result in parts that have excessive thinning or poor surface finish and profiles. It can also result in excess machine and tooling wear that will need to be repaired.
The spindle mount for the vast majority of metal spinning machines is a based on a standard -DIN 55022. “DIN” stands for Deutsches Institut fur Normung, or Geman Institute for Standardization. The design of the mount seeks to mate the spin tooling to the spindle as closely as possible.
Prior to mounting a tool, the surfaces of the mating surfaces have to be cleaned to eliminate any foreign objects (e.g., dust, dirt, small shavings). Anything that is trapped between the mating surfaces could cause the tooling to not run true.
The tooling is then mounted on the spindle – hand tightening then tightening more forcefully in a crossing pattern until tight and square.
Then to confirm the tool is running true, dial indicators are set at multiple locations and the spindle is turned by hand. Generally a 0.001” to 0.003” runout is deemed acceptable. If the tool runs out more than that the first step to correct is to loosen and retighten the bolts. While shimming may be needed, that can be an indication that the tooling should be checked more carefully and potentially re-cut.
Producing high quality metal spun parts is not just about measuring finished parts and tracking process capability. It starts with attention to detail and consistently following standard operating procedures. While a bit tedious, taking a few extra minutes to insure a good setup yields round concentric parts with a good finish; it decreases tool maintenance and improves machine up-time.
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