Revolutionising traditional metal spinning
The MTC works with Primetals Technologies and the University of Cambridge to develop ground-breaking specialist machine to revolutionise the traditional world of metal spinning.
“This collaborative way of working enabled a culture of co-operation, learning and innovation to be fostered.” Nick Champion, Head of Technology, Primetals Technologies
The Challenge
The purpose of this development programme was to upscale a laboratory concept for mandrel-free spinning, developed by the University of Cambridge, into a customer-driven and commercially relevant flexible forming machine. The main goals of this new spinning technology are:
• Elimination of tooling costs
• Rapid and low cost component prototyping
• Advanced part geometry not currently accessible through conventional spinning
MTC's Solution
• In partnership with Primetals, the MTC developed an 11 axis machine capable of spinning blank sizes of up to 2.5 metres
• This machine is fully CNC operational. Currently, standard spinning machines are more reliant on manual operations as fully CNC variants are not available
The Outcome
• Innovative machine concept based on fundamental academic research
• Fundamentals of toolpath design addressed through ongoing university support
• Commercially relevant up-scaled machine built and installed at the MTC
• Successful partnering could form the basis for a future innovative collaboration model.
Benefits to the client
• Integrated approach between Primetals Technologies, The University of Cambridge and the MTC to revolutionise the traditional world of metal spinning
• The foundation of a UK capability in the design, development and commercialisation of novel flexible forming machines.
“It was a fascinating project to work on due to the many aspects that had to be considered. Given the collaborative nature of the project it was always a pleasure to work on, even when presented with tough challenges.” Marie Wells, Advanced Research Engineer, MTC
