A metal spinning lathe holds a flat metal disc against a mandrel and spins it, while a roller presses the metal down over the mandrel's shape. Manual spinning lathes rely on the spinner's skill and lever; CNC spinning machines move hydraulic rollers on programmed paths for repeatable parts. Flow-forming versions stretch tubes thinner and longer.
Quick facts
- Main types
- Manual, CNC, flow forming
- Swing
- About 300 mm (11.81 inch) to over 2 m
- Thickness
- About 0.5–6 mm (0.0197–0.236 inch) typical
- Tooling
- Mandrel and roller
- Drive
- Variable-speed spindle
- Typical parts
- Cones, domes, reflectors, tank ends
Main parts
- Headstock with variable-speed spindle
- Mandrel (chuck) shaped like the inside of the part
- Tailstock follower that clamps the disc
- Tool rest and spinning tools or hydraulic roller slides (CNC)
- Trimming tool for the rim
Good to know
- Mandrels of hardwood suit short runs; steel ones last longer
- Some shapes need several mandrels and annealing between stages
- CNC machines repeat parts exactly and spin thicker metal
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Questions
- Manual or CNC spinning?
- Manual for one-offs and prototypes; CNC for repeat batches, thicker metal and consistent shapes.
- What is flow forming?
- A related process where rollers stretch a tube or cup thinner and longer over a mandrel, used for cylinders and rims.
- What decides the largest part?
- The lathe's swing (diameter it can turn) and its power for the thickness and material.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 23 October 2026.