Manufacturing Screws & Gears: Process Explained

  • Thread starter Victor Frankenstein
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In summary, screws are typically manufactured using screw machines, while small gears can be stamped out of steel sheets. While casting is also an option, it often requires additional machining afterwards. Heating the sheets for stamping does not necessarily make the metal easier to machine, and it is possible to cold punch mild steel. The size of the parts being machined can vary, with some machines being able to handle very small parts like wristwatch components.
  • #1
Victor Frankenstein
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How are those tiny screws and gears manufactured, do they have some kind of crucible prepared and pour molten metal in them ?
 
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  • #2
Screws are often manufactured on screw machines, which are metal lathes that bring in round stock and automatically machine and thread the screws. they can work very fast. I have 13 stitches in my left thumb to prove it !

Small gears could easily be stamped out of steel sheets (like cookie cutters)

The problem with casting is that it typically requires machining afterward.
 
  • #3
Must they heat the sheets like red hot when they stamp them out, making the metal easier to shape when forming them into gears ?
 
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  • #4
Victor Frankenstein said:
Must they heat the sheets like red hot when they stamp them out, making the metal easier to shape when forming them into gears ?

Not necessarily. The stamping and machining operations are done separately, - having hot metal for stamping will not intentionally result in the metal being easier to machine.
 
  • #5
It is common to cold punch mild steel an inch thick or more.
 
  • #6
I would also hazard a guess that having hot blanks would result in more undesirable deformation of the punched part, since elevated temperatures soften most metals.
 
  • #7
When Victor said 'tiny', I was thinking along the line of wristwatch parts. Are you guys telling us that something that small can be machined?! Can you eleborate upon the machine tools used? I've seen some pretty tiny lathes and milling machines, but nothing that could handle something like that.
 

What are screws and gears used for in manufacturing?

Screws and gears are essential components in many manufacturing processes. Screws are used to fasten and secure materials together, while gears are used to transfer motion and power between different parts of a machine.

How are screws and gears manufactured?

The manufacturing process for screws and gears typically involves several steps, including cutting, shaping, and finishing. Screws are usually machined or cold-formed from metal rods, while gears are typically cut from metal or plastic using specialized tools such as hobbing or milling machines.

What materials are commonly used to make screws and gears?

Screws and gears can be made from a variety of materials, including metals such as steel, aluminum, and brass, as well as plastics like nylon and polycarbonate. The choice of material depends on the specific application and the desired strength, durability, and cost.

What quality control measures are in place during the manufacturing process?

To ensure the accuracy and reliability of screws and gears, manufacturers use various quality control measures such as inspection, testing, and statistical process control. These methods help to identify and correct any defects or variations in the production process, ensuring that the final products meet the required specifications.

What are some common challenges in manufacturing screws and gears?

One of the main challenges in manufacturing screws and gears is achieving precise dimensions and tolerances. This requires specialized equipment and skilled operators to maintain consistency and accuracy. Additionally, selecting the right material and production method for a particular application can also be a challenge. Other potential issues include wear and tear over time, which can affect the performance and lifespan of screws and gears.

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