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A spring forming machine is a specialized CNC (Computer Numerical Control) industrial device designed to bend, coil, and shape metal wire into complex 2D or 3D geometries. Unlike basic coiling machines that primarily produce standard cylindrical springs, a spring forming machine utilizes multiple independent axes —often ranging from 3 to 12 or more—to create intricate wire forms, torsion springs, and battery contacts with extreme precision.
The primary objective of this machine is to automate the production of wire-based components, ensuring that every unit produced is identical within tolerances as tight as /- 0.01mm . This makes it an essential tool in high-volume manufacturing sectors like the automotive and medical device industries.
The fundamental working principle of a spring forming machine relies on the synchronized movement of a wire feeding system and a series of tooling slides. The process follows a logical sequence controlled by a central computer:
To achieve high-speed production—sometimes exceeding 100 pieces per minute —several internal components must work in perfect harmony.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| CNC Controller | The brain that stores programs and coordinates motor movements. |
| Servo Motors | Provide high-torque, precise rotation for feeding and bending. |
| Wire Feeder | Rollers that push the wire forward with millimetric accuracy. |
| Tooling Slides | The arms that move tools in and out to shape the wire. |
| Quill | The central guide tube from which the wire exits to be formed. |
Understanding the difference in how these machines operate is vital for selecting the right equipment for specific manufacturing needs.
Traditional machines use a central camshaft to drive all movements. While reliable for simple springs, they require significant manual setup time (often 2–4 hours) to change a mechanical cam whenever a new part design is introduced.
Modern camless spring forming machines use independent servo motors for every tool slide. This allows for instantaneous adjustments via software. Key benefits include:
A spring forming machine is versatile enough to handle materials ranging from 0.1mm to 8.0mm in diameter, including stainless steel, carbon steel, and copper alloys.