Avoid Damaging Your Rollforming Machine – Use Approved Materials

By Alec Doniger. 

To safely operate a rollforming machine, it is essential that proper materials be used. 

Only specific metal coils can be used in rollforming machines. It’s important to use the correct types, otherwise, you could damage your machine or run into problems during installation. That’s why New Tech Machinery’s (NTM) engineering department tested portable rollforming machines to see which materials can safely be used in the rollforming process.  

NTM designs their machines to roll metal types that are commonly used for metal roofs. These metal types have been consistently used for roofing and architectural projects for many years. For example, NTM’s SSH™ MultiPro Roof Panel Machine can run: 

•  28 to 24 gauge painted, galvanized, aluminum steel.  

• .027 to .040” painted aluminum 

• 16 to 20 oz. ¾ hard copper 

• 26-gauge terne coat stainless steel 

Each of these metal types need to be of a specific grade. If you fail to use the proper types, grades and thicknesses of metal specified in your machine, you will likely encounter issues or damage the machine itself. Using metal that is too hard can wear out the machine’s forming or drive rollers, which can cause significant damage and take significant time to fix. This will also void your warranty, making repairs extremely expensive. It is highly recommended that you only use materials that have been approved by NTM to run in your rollforming machine.  

Even if you use the correct materials, an imperfect or defective coil also runs the risk of damaging your machine. It’s important to be sure that your coil is high quality, cut properly, damage-free and perfectly flat. Make sure the coil is fed into the machine completely straight. And if you run into issues, you can always contact the NTM service department for troubleshooting advice.  

Rollforming has become increasingly popular as metal roofs are on the rise. Portable rollforming machines are a convenient technology, and in order to keep your machine running properly for years to come, it’s important to exercise caution and do research before using one. 

Learn more about New Tech Machinery in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directory or visit newtechmachinery.com. 

Original article source: NTM 

About Alec  

Alec is a reporter for RoofersCoffeeShop, MetalCoffeeShop and AskARoofer. When he isn’t investigating the state of the roofing industry, you might find him playing drums with his bands in Denver.