Abstract Spinning technology is an effective method for forming thin-walled long cylindrical parts. Based on ABAQUS finite element software, this paper analyses the spin forming of magnesium alloy cylindrical parts, and obtains the influence of key parameters such as mandrel speed, feed rate, thinning rate, roller radius and spinning temperature on the spinning process. The spinning test of AZ31 magnesium alloy long cylindrical parts was carried out, and the test results were consistent with the simulation results. Numerical simulation and experimental verification provide the basis for the development of magnesium alloy spinning process.