What is metal spinning?
It is a form of metalworking and involves a process where metal is placed on a lathe and rotated at a set speed, so that the artisan can shape the metal. It is possible to do this by hand, but it is more common these days to use a CNC lathe, particularly as the lathes can now work with varying sizes of metal. The skills of these artisans are used in many places but have been revived to a very high standard, as churches and cathedrals seek to renew or renovate valuable items such as candlesticks and chalices, as well as collection plates and patens for the host.
There are also a variety of commercial applications that include high-class cookware, brass instruments including musical instruments and such mundane items as rubbish bins.
The variety of metals used can range from aluminium to stainless steel, to almost any of the alloys that are now available, a good example being brass. As stated earlier the size of the object being spun is determined by the capabilities of the lathe or the artisans own physical capabilities.
Preservation work
One of the most important parts of metal spinning is linked with those artisans who are specialists in restoration work. Within the church, and also within some Guilds, there are many items that not only have a deep intrinsic value but also have a high financial value, and over time these items will need to be reworked in order to preserve them. The stems and their connection to the bases may weaken over time and thus become far to supple. They can be respun and strengthened so that the piece will have a longer life.
Commercial
Commercial use for metal spinning can be uninspiring but also very important. Such items as scuba tanks, oxyacetylene tanks, oxygen tanks that people with breathing difficulties are now able to carry with them in special holders are all spun metal. Metal spinning also extends to rocket nose cones, as well as the high quality alloy wheels you see on boy racer cars as well and the wheels on Formula 1 cars.
Metal Spinning
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