What Does a Shrinker Stretcher Do?

If you’ve ever worked in metal fabrication or custom automotive restoration, you’ve probably encountered the tool known as a shrinker stretcher. This powerful device is essential for shaping metal panels, especially when you need to create complex curves or contours. But what exactly does a shrinker stretcher do, and why is it so important in industries like aviation, metalworking, and custom car building?

Understanding the Shrinker Stretcher

A shrinker stretcher is a metal-shaping tool used to alter the dimensions of sheet metal without cutting or welding. It performs two main functions:

• Shrinking: Compresses the metal to reduce its length, creating convex curves (outward bends).
• Stretching: Pulls the metal to increase its length, resulting in concave curves (inward bends).

This dual action makes it ideal for crafting smooth, contoured edges and complex geometries. Whether you’re restoring a vintage car fender or fabricating aircraft panels, a shrinker stretcher offers precision control with minimal distortion.

Why Use a Shrinker Stretcher?

Many industries rely on shrinker stretchers for their versatility and efficiency. Some key benefits include:

• Accuracy: Allows for tight radius curves and precise shaping.
• Time-Saving: Eliminates the need for cutting and welding multiple pieces.
• Durability: Creates strong, seamless bends without compromising metal integrity.

This tool is especially favored by professionals working with aluminum, mild steel, and stainless steel up to certain gauges.

Popular Shrinker Stretcher Brands: Marchant, Erco and Eckold Kraftformer

Two standout names in the world of shrinker stretchers are Marchant and Erco.

• Marchant shrinker stretchers are known for their heavy-duty construction and smooth operation, ideal for both commercial and industrial use.
• Erco machines are celebrated in aviation and restoration circles for their precision and engineering excellence.

These brands have set the gold standard in metal shaping and continue to be trusted by professionals worldwide.

Where to Buy or Sell Shrinker Stretchers

When it comes to sourcing high-quality shrinker stretchers like Marchant,  Erco and Eckold Kraftformers, Century Machinery Inc. is your go-to partner. Established in 1934, Century Machinery Inc. is a full-service global dealer specializing in the buying, selling, leasing, trading, assets financing, and auctioning of both new and used industrial machinery. They offer a wide range of services, including:

• Plant liquidations
• Consignment sales
• Certified machinery appraisals

With expertise in machine tools, fabrication equipment, woodworking machinery, hydraulic presses, and more, Century Machinery also leads the U.S. market in Fluid Forming Presses and Extrusion and Sheet Stretch Forming Machines, rebuilt Pin & Radial Arm Routing Machines.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re in the market for a shrinker stretcher, specifically a Eckold, Erco – Marchant or other industrial machinery, Century Machinery Inc. is the trusted source for top-tier equipment. Their decades of experience and comprehensive services make them the ideal partner for all your machinery needs. For equipment inquiries, call 1-213-627-2847 today and discover how Century Machinery Inc. can help power your next project.