Can you spin metal on a regular metal lathe?

[Zippiot]

Subject kinda states it, was wondering if I can use my hobby lathe to spin small pieces without major modifications.

[Viv]

Subject kinda states it, was wondering if I can use my hobby lathe to spin small pieces without major modifications.

Yes, do a google search for metal spinning and you will find a few people offering DVDs on the subject, I advise you to get one of those to set your self up.

Viv

[Zippiot]

Their lathe looks like more than just a toolrest and special set of tools...hmm

[Viv]

Hi Zippoit

Yes you do need a special set of tools and yes you do then need a special tool post to lever against, depending on the metal you are spinning it can take a lot of force, pewter and silver being easy and work hardening grades of stainless very difficult and requiring roller tools and not the more normal and cheaper plain tools, aluminum is some were in the middle again depending on grade (alloy)

Do a search on here and you will see me metal spinning a nose cone for a Gluhareff pressure jet from 321 grade stainless, originally I was trained in England to do metal metal spinning and demonstrate/teach it. upgrading my skills to stainless was more to do with learning the metal rather than the spinning but I would not recommend it as your first project.

Viv

[Zippiot]

Thank you, good advice.

Im trying to do some copper work and the video I watched where they worked on copper involved a big torch keeping the metal hot while they spun it at low speed. I cant find a chart to show what rpm to use for what metal but first steps first find some tools and make the toolrest.
I wonder how much force it actually takes, such as will I be able to bolt the toolrest to the lathe or do I need to use the ways where the metal cutting tools rest. (its been a while since metalshop sorry for any wrong terms)

[Viv]

Hi Z

Copper is relatively easy but forget keeping it hot while spinning its not needed, also it does not take a lot of force at the handle, the tool post is the fulcrum point you lever against, the short distance to the workplace gives you the force needed to flow the metal.

And yes I do mean flow, the metal moves like plastic rather than bending, keep that in mind as you work or you will create thin spots in your work.

The tool tips are hard and highly polished, use a lubricant to prevent galling (another word to look up)

Work hardening is your enemy with any metal being spun, the torch is to anneal the metal and soften it so you can work it again, this is another subject so worth looking it up and how to do it properly, its not done on the lathe! thats just a waste of time.

Viv

[Viv]

Hi Z

Heres a link to some one I know for metal spinning, http://www.metalspinningworkshop.com/ he is a really nice guy and does some DVD courses

http://www.metalspinningworkshop.com/MovieClipTwo.html

Viv

[Zippiot]

Thank you, ive seen the site but will need to order the dvd.