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What is Metal Forming?

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Metal forming is also known as flowforming or flowturning. This is where the metal is spun on a machine until the desired thickness is formed. The metal that is used is known as a blank or preform. It is placed on a machine and spun, being closely controlled until the results that are set are reached. The whole process is started with making the preform. This preform is designed in such a way to ensure that the exact amount of material that is needed to form the final shape is in place. The preform itself is designed by using deep drawing, stamping, or press forming.

Once the process has begun, the preform is spun around and pressed against a mandrel that gives it the shape it is supposed to have. It basically resembles the concept of rolling dough. If you watched your mother make dough, you saw her take this large pin and press the dough. As she did so the material would be pushed ahead and she would continue working this way until all the dough is rolled.

This method is one of the best types used because it allows the formation of stainless and heat-resistant steels. If you ever notice parts made from this method are round but straight like cones or cylinders.

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