Every metal rollforming machine has different pieces and parts depending on the product it is rollforming, plus could need more or fewer parts to account for varying sizes, speeds, and complexities. However, some general elements of a rollformer are universal for most machines, including:

Power source – An essential part of a rollformer is how it’s powered and able to run. Most in-plant rollformers use electricity as the primary power source, but there are smaller portable rollformers that come gas-powered too.

Forming rollers – Forming rollers and forming stations are the individual components that the metal passes through to bend or form a desired shape. Forming rollers are put together in a progressive series to complete a process used to form the end product. Most rollers are made of hard-chromed steel or stainless steel. For some machines, the forming rollers are also the drive rollers.

Drive rollers – Drive rollers are used to move the metal through the machine. Some rollformers incorporate the forming and driving rollers into one, while others keep the drive and forming functions separate. Separating the two results in less stress on the metal and reduces the possibility of oil canning. Drive rollers are typically made of metal or polyurethane.

Forming stations – Forming stations refer to the spots at which the metal is bent or manipulated by a pair of forming rollers. In fact, the more forming stations there are in a machine, the higher the quality of the finished product because a gradual forming reduces stresses inflicted on the material. For example, having more forming stations in a metal roofing rollforming machine helps minimize the possibility of oil canning.

Shear or guillotine – If the metal needs cut in any way, shape, or form in the rollforming machine, it features a shear, sometimes called a guillotine, to cut the metal part or component at a specified length. Shears are very common with metal coil and sheet processing rollformers. Additionally, rollformers with shears are categorized into two different cuts:

· Post-cut shear – The metal part is formed first in the forming stations and cut AFTERWARD. One benefit of cutting after forming is complete is there are no length restrictions. Products can be cut as small as one foot long or shorter without any issues.

· Pre-cut shear – The metal is cut BEFORE it goes through the forming stations at the entry of the machine. Conversely to post-cut, there are short length restrictions on pre-cut machine shears. However, pre-cut offers a cleaner cut to the flat or un-rolled metal.

Hydraulic tanks – Hydraulic tanks aren’t standard on all rollforming machines, but they are commonly added to make the machine faster for higher production. Hydraulics can also automate the machine’s shears.

Controller – The controller, either manual or computer operated, makes the machine function following the desired measurements and preferences. For example, if a pipe needs cut at a certain length, the exact length can be programmed into a controller to cut the pipe automatically when it reaches the measurement.