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Metal processing

Metal processing: precision series production from Schmalkalden

Since 1876, A.G. Thorwarth has stood for metal processing with a clear focus on series production. From Schmalkalden, we manufacture precision deep-drawn parts for repeatable series processes. We process stainless steel, steel, Inconel, aluminium, copper and brass. Our components are used in sanitary, automotive and other industrial applications. The foundation is deep drawing, combined with in-house toolmaking.

Scope of metal processing: from design to delivery

For Thorwarth, metal processing means a complete process chain from a single source. From early planning through forming to scheduled delivery, each step is coordinated with the requirements of series production.

  • Planning & design – component and process design focused on reproducible results.
  • Deep drawing – stretch-squeeze forming as the core sheet-metal forming process.
  • Toolmaking – modular transfer tools, modifications, repairs and planned maintenance.
  • Heat treatment & surface finishing – coordinated process steps for function and service life.
  • Inspection, logistics & storage – documented processes, traceability and reliable supply.

This chain of planning, manufacturing and inspection enables robust series processes, from the initial idea through production to toolmaking and scheduled delivery.

Processes & methods: metalworking for series production

In series production, stable and traceable methods are essential. Thorwarth coordinates the processing steps so that quality, dimensional accuracy and delivery capability support one another.

  • Stretch-squeeze forming (deep drawing) as the key sheet-metal forming process.
  • Metal processing tools with modular design, easy to maintain and adaptable for series production.
  • Inspection planning & statistical process control (SPC) for documented, reproducible processes.

The interaction of deep drawing, tooling expertise and quality-assured processes forms the basis for consistent component properties – supported by our quality management and in-house toolmaking.

Deep drawing: stretch-squeeze forming for series-ready deep-drawn parts

In deep drawing, our deep-drawn parts are produced by forming a flat sheet blank in several stages into a hollow body that is open on one side. This manufacturing method for drawn parts is our core competence. Applications range from automotive body parts to press sleeves for sanitary installations. Material-appropriate design is essential, and we are happy to provide advice at an early stage.

Capacity & key figures: modern metal processing

Transparent key figures build confidence and show what series customers can rely on.

  • 23 multi-stage presses
  • Press forces up to 63 t
  • Sleeve lengths 5–60 mm
  • Inside diameters 8–60 mm
  • Material thicknesses 0.3–1.5 mm

These parameters are managed by specialised teams and integrated into series production. The machinery base is documented under production.

Materials & industries: matched to the application

Material selection depends on the application and the required service life. For our deep-drawn parts, we process proven metals and meet different industry requirements.

  • Stainless steel
  • Steel
  • Inconel
  • Aluminium
  • Copper
  • Brass

Examples from key areas: In plumbing, custom press sleeves are produced for drinking-water and heating installations. Automotive applications include sensor and fluid sleeves for exhaust systems, gearboxes and lines. For technical lines, hose ferrules are available in the low-pressure range with tool IDs from 9 to 55 mm. In non-automotive applications, uses range from locking and measurement technology to burner sleeves and caps or lids. Material selection and inspection plans are tailored to each application.

Toolmaking & development: securing series readiness

Toolmaking is central to our metal processing: flexible, creative and closely aligned with the project team. We support part development through to the optimal design, carry out tool modifications and repairs, and maintain process capability through planned maintenance intervals based on production frequency and stroke count.

Transfer tooling as a modular system

Transfer tooling is configured for repeatable forming steps and based on a modular design. It is durable, easy to service and adaptable for series production.

  • Modules based on single-station tools
  • Carbide punching components
  • Wear-coated punching tools
  • Additional components as required

This creates the right tool configuration for your part – economical, maintainable and ready for series production.

Quality & evidence: measurable, traceable

Quality has been a particular point of pride since 1876. It is a constant in our series production: transparent, certified and firmly embedded in our quality management.

  • DIN EN ISO 9001:2015
  • Processes aligned with ISO/TS 16949
  • Product and material traceability
  • Inspection plans & statistical process control (SPC)

These measures create transparency from the material batch to the finished part.

History & reliability: since 1876

Our roots in metal processing are in Schmalkalden. From this tradition, A.G. Thorwarth has grown into a reliable series supplier.

  • Founded in 1876
  • Development into a deep-drawing specialist
  • Continuous modernisation
  • Well over 120 million parts per year

Consistency and development shape our path – you can find further insight in the company profile and history.

Get in touch – we’ll get back to you quickly

Contact us and we will respond promptly. Need advice? Email us at info@agthorwarth.de or call +49 3683 402761. For further information about our company and the right contact person, please visit our contact page.

FAQ on metalworking at A.G. Thorwarth

Below you will find answers to common questions about processes, workflows and applications from the perspective of A.G. Thorwarth.

What does A.G. Thorwarth mean by metalworking?

At A.G. Thorwarth, metalworking covers an end-to-end process chain: planning and design, deep drawing as the core sheet-metal forming step, in-house toolmaking, heat and surface treatment, inspection, logistics and traceability. The process is built for reproducible series quality and dependable delivery.

Which processes are part of your metal processing?

Our focus is deep drawing, a sheet-metal forming process. In addition, modular and serviceable tools support process capability. Inspection planning and SPC document results. Heat and surface treatments are integrated as needed to support function and service life.

Which metalworking methods ensure series capability?

Series capability comes from coordinated tooling, regular maintenance and modifications, documented inspection plans, and ISO 9001-based quality management with traceability. This keeps dimensional accuracy and repeatability consistent from the material batch to the finished part, with reliable availability from stock.

For which industries is metalworking particularly relevant at Thorwarth?

Our deep-drawn parts are used in sanitary installations and fittings, in automotive sensor and fluid technology, and in a wide range of industrial applications such as locking and measurement technology, burner sleeves and hose ferrules. Material selection is matched to the application.