Features, Benefits and Types of Shrinker/Stretcher Metal Forming Tools – Blog

Shrinker/stretcher, which consists of two dies (one for stretching material, while the other to shrink material) is designed to form desired curves on a piece of metal. This wonderful metal forming tool provides the convenience of having both Shrinker and Stretcher set up in the same tool. Available in several models, the tools can be used to form 18 gauge mild steel or up to 16 gauge aluminum. This metalworking tool is provided by several manufacturers and in diverse specifications. However, the shrinker/stretcher tool from Woodward Fab have gained extreme popularity in the recent years. Do you want to know how they work? What are the different types of shrinker/stretcher tool provided by Woodward Fab? What are the beneficial features of these metal forming tools? What applications are they suited for?

The Various Types of Shrinker/Stretcher Tools Provided by Woodward Fab

At Woodward Fab, several models of these metal forming tools are available. They include the following:

  • Heavy Cast Iron Deep Throat Shrinker/Stretcher
  • Super Duty Shrinker/Stretcher
  • Double Foot Operated Shrinker / Stretcher
  • Deep Throat Shrinker/Stretcher
  • Portable Shrinker/Stretcher.

Features and Benefits of Woodward Fab Shrinker/Stretcher Metal Forming Tools

There are several beneficial features associated with Woodward Fab shrinker/stretcher tools. They are listed as follow:

  • The tool is manufactured with hardened steel jaws, which helps curve and angle any 16 gauge aluminum, 18 gauge mild steel, or 20 gauge stainless.
  • The tool is powder coated to offer corrosion resistance when used in harsh environmental conditions.
  • These tool is easy to mount as it is equipped with pre-drilled holes.
  • Their thumb screws allow quick die change.
  • They are also available with an optional adjustable stand or foot operated stand.
  • All the metal forming tools in this category are fully warrantied against material and workmanship defects.

Capable of producing curves in a tight radius, these tools help to form inside or outside curves on wheel openings, and windshields. Shrinker/stretcher also helps form compound curves in sheet metal for car, motorcycle, airplane body restoration, wheel openings, door jambs, and trunk rain gutters.

How to Use Woodward Fab Shrinker/Stretcher?

Woodward Fab Shrinker/Stretcher tool is designed for ease of use and operation. These tools produce the desired curves by just shrinking the metal, and there is no need for heating, cutting, or welding. These metal forming tools encompass two dies -one for shrinking the material and the other for stretching the work piece. Ensure that you need a workpiece with 90 degree bend. The lip of the bend should range from 1/8ʺ to 1ʺ. The steel or aluminum sheet with this specifications allow for easier shrinking-stretching operation.

Now, loosen the four cap screws. Insert the stretching die and tighten the cap screws. After inserting the desired die, take the work piece to be formed, and insert the bent lip into the jaws of the tool. Now, push the handle attached with the tool gently, and you can see the parts begin to form with required curvature. The shrinker tool compresses metal for inside angles, whereas the stretcher tool stretches metal for outside angles. Continue pushing the handle until you get smooth radius curves in the sheet metal. This tool is also supplied with a height adjustable stand, and a storage rack for the dies.

Do you think this metalworking tool can be an asset to your workshop? If yes, you can make a wise choice by contacting our team. The team will help you make the most appropriate decision to achieve the desired end results.

 

Browse Best Quality Woodward Fab Shrinker Stretcher Product Range:

PRODUCT SKU/TYPE
Shrinker Stretcher with Foot Operated Stand WFSSCAST9
Shrinker Stretcher Machine WFSS10
Shrinker Stretcher Combo System WFSS101-2
Super Duty Shrinker Stretcher WFSS-SD
Double Foot Operated Combo Shrinker Stretcher WFSSDF
Deep Throat Shrinker Stretcher WFSS10-DEEP
Heavy Duty Foot Operated Shrinker Stretcher WFSSHD
Portable Shrinker Stretcher WFSS10P

Related Post:

  1. How Is Metal Shrinker Stretcher Used for Auto Body Restoration? What Are the Precautions to Be Followed?

  2. Key Differences between Tools Used to Stretch Metal

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