Wire Forms

Shaped wire (usually spring steel) is used to create wire forms, which have various uses and are often seen in products that we use every day. Some examples include light bulb filaments, musical instruments, clocks, medical trays, pins, pegs, and rivets. Possible configuration opportunities are endless, making wire forms exceptionally diverse in their use cases.

Custom wire forms are manufactured in a variety of shapes to perform specific functions. There are a variety of customization that can be performed with wire forms, so we will work with you to determine the best material, sizing, and manufacturing process to suit your needs.

Though wire forms can be manufactured from nearly any metal material, in general, selection is dependent on the required properties for the application. Common metals used in wire forming are spring steels that are alloyed with medium-to-high carbon, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and copper. Additional materials used in wire forming are non-ferrous metals, nickel-plated carbon steel, stainless alloys and titanium. Carbon steels in particular are popular due to the material's high tensile strength and relative affordability. However, spring steels also offer fatigue strength that can withstand considerable degrees of continuous extension and compression, bending, and twisting without losing their original form.

There are a number of wire forming processes, but essentially, once the wire is selected, the first step is wire straightening, the process of removing stress disfigurations and deformations that have built up in the wire. The process stabilizes the wire and makes it less susceptible to breaking. Machine rolling is the easiest way to straighten wire, but a rotary arbor may also be used. The next step is the application of force either, as mentioned, manually or by machine, to change the shape of the wire. Once the wire has been shaped it is readied for finishing and other secondary processes. Finishing first ensures that the wire is free from imperfections such as burrs or sharp edges. Other finishing processes may include.

For more information about wire form customization, please contact sales for help.