When searching for a plate rolling machine it is most important to first know the capacity you're looking for. The second is then to determine the style of machine best suited to your rolling needs and lastly make sure you select a quality machine builder. Before we delve into the intricacies of selecting a plate rolling machine however we should cover the basics and review machines' styles and the process.
what do you need to know when buying a plate rolling machine?
Plate Rolling Fundamentals
As you consider the purchase of a plate rolling machine it is important to consider the fundamentals of plate rolling and bending techniques. Plate rolling is instrumental in many applications in bending materials to achieve a variety of shapes such as normal or circular, oval, rectangular, and open bends. When you know what end result you want to accomplish, it is much easier to factor in all of the aspects of a plate roll and what you may need for your application.
Understanding Roll Theory
Before you begin your search for a plate roll that meets your needs, it is important to understand roll theory. Completely researching your applications and various needs for versatility is the first step of understanding roll theory as it applies to your operation. Each type of plate roll offers various advantages and disadvantages. You may value tolerance over bending versatility or price over ease of operation. Carefully consider your needs and requirements before choosing the right plate roll for your application.
Versatility
Finding a versatile plate roll can be useful so that you may utilize the plate roll for a variety of applications rather than purchasing a plate roll that meets only your immediate needs.
Machine Styles
There are 3 main “styles” of plate rolling machines and several variations of each. Below we have listed the main types of plate rolling systems available and their common uses.
- 2 Roll Machines (Ideal for thin, highly repetitive circular rolling such as Food Cans)
- 3 Roll Initial Pinch (Most popular design due mostly to cost)
- 3 Roll Double Pinch (Affordable design for heavier bending applications)
- 3 Roll Variable Translating Geometry (Affordable Design for Variable Radii applications)
- 4 Roll Double Pinch (The most versatile of the designs)
- Vertical Rolls (Perfect when rolling very large Radii such as above-ground fuel and water storage tanks)
- Automated Cycle & Specialty Rolls (Spiral Duct Rolls, Corrugated Material Rolls etc.)
2-Roll Plate Rolls
These types of plate rolls use a hardened upper roller and a larger diameter lower roller with a thick urethane coating. The upper roll is pressed into the lower urethane material, deforming it slightly. As both rolls turn in unison, a thin piece of material is inserted between the rolls and rolled into shape. These designs of plate rolls are very application-specific and used in very high production scenarios of manufacturing such as food cans.
These rolls are not commonly seen in fabrication or job shop settings.
Initial Pinch
The initial pinch-style plate roll is a 3-Roll plate roll. Often called the “slip roll”, it is one of the most common roles found in the job shops dealing with thinner workpieces (up to 7 Gage). These rolls can be powered by manual, electronic, or hydraulic action. As they are smaller they are generally easy to use but require 2 setups for pre-bending the leading edge of the rolled material.
2 Rolls are set in a vertically stacked pattern and adjustable only to “pinch” the material securely. A third and adjustable roll moves at an angle toward and away from the pinching point of the first two rolls forcing the material being formed to begin to take the angle, and during rolling, the radius desired.
Variable Geometry
These style plate rolls have the roll sets in a pyramid fashion and allow for heavier bending applications in a 3 roll design. This style also allows for better cone-rolling efficiency given the ability to adjust all 3 rolls however are subject to material slippage during rolling if not used correctly.
4-Roll
The 4-Roll plate roll design is by far the most popular as it allows rolling to be accomplished in a single setup and keeps the material clamped tightly during the entire operation. Designed with 2 rolls vertically stacked in the middle to “pinch” the material the remaining 2 rolls move laterally to prebend the leading and trailing material edges as well as force the material to the diameter desired.
Machine Rolling Process
The rolling process starts with a selected piece of material being squared up in the plate roll. In the Initial pinch and other 3-Roll machine designs, this is a bit more tedious as it is a visual process. In the 4-Roll Plate roll, one of the side rolls can be used as a squaring arm of sorts, to butt the material against squaring it physically before securing it between the two pinched rolls. Once the material is “pinched” securely it is adjusted until the very edge of the material is just barely past the midway or “pinch point” of the clamping rolls. Then the side roll is brought into position bending the plate to begin the angle in what is known as the pre-bend.
On 3 roll machines the material is removed, rotated and the process of pre-bending is repeated. In the 4-Roll design, the material can be rolled directly from the first pre-bend until the trailing edge itself is on the opposite side roll where it then too can be pre-bent into the desired angle all whilst being firmly clamped between the 2 centered pinched rolls. Often an operator will make several “passes” to achieve the desired diameter. In some cases, the operator will weld the plate ends together and attempt to “roll out” the flat ends that were created during the pre-bend process.
How to Determine Capacity
In order to determine plate rolling capacity, you must first determine the hardest yielding material you will be rolling, the thickness and width of that material, and the smallest diameter to which you will be rolling it to. Understand that as a certain capacity plate roll grows in plate width capability the plate rolls, by design, grow in diameter. The larger the diameter top Roll the less the diametrical capacity of the roll itself. As a rule, the smallest diameter you can easily roll material down to is 1.5X the upper roll diameter (with smaller diameters achievable in multiple passes).
Capacity in a plate roll has been well-engineered into the design of the machine and careful considerations must be taken most importantly with material yield strength and thickness. Consulting with your BendmakUSA representative is a quick and easy way to determine the right plate roll for your needs.
What Happens if Your Machine is Pushed Over Capacity
Often operators or fabrication shop owners will push their machines overcapacity. Although all machines are designed for a range of safety above their designated range, eventually you can damage the machine, and in some cases severely. One of the first and most common issues with used plate rolling systems is bent rolls. When rolls are pushed beyond their limit over a shorter range of their surface they can be easily deformed. Another common issue when rolls are overstressed along their full capacity is breaking the top roll at the tapered end that fits into the drop end. This area of the top roll is weakest and can succumb easily to highly overstressed scenarios.
8 Questions to Consider Before Choosing the Right Plate Roller
Choosing the right plate bending machine is essential to ensure your workpiece bends efficiently and accurately.
- Maximum Bending Capacity:
The machine’s maximum bending capacity should match your workpiece’s dimensions based on the thickness, width, and length of the material. Consider the maximum thickness, length, and width capabilities of the machine. - Bending Speed:
Consider the required production rate and cycle times when selecting a plate bending machine. The machine’s bending speed can affect the production rate significantly. - Bending Length:
The machine’s bending length should be long enough to accommodate the length of the material being bent. For high volume production, a longer bending length machine is preferable, while a shorter bending length machine may be satisfactory for smaller jobs. - Machine Accuracy:
The accuracy of the machine is crucial in producing consistent and precise bends. Look for machines that have a high degree of accuracy, consistent repeatability, and minimal distortion or material damage. - Tooling Compatibility:
Consider the compatibility of the machine with Tooling and tooling change-over equipment for different bending operations. - Ease of Use and Maintenance:
Choose a machine that is user-friendly and easy to maintain, with accessible parts, clear documentation and support from the supplier. Bending machines that are easy to use and maintain can improve operator efficiency and minimize downtime. - Floor Space and Electrical Requirements:
Consider the amount of floor space required for the machine and the electrical requirements for the machine to function optimally, and if it’s compatible with your available electrical infrastructure. - Budget:
The machine’s price is an important consideration based on your budget and the machine’s specific requirements.
Summary
In conclusion, selecting the right plate bending machine is a crucial part of your production process. It’s important to consider factors such as maximum bending capacity, bending speed, bending length, machine accuracy, tooling compatibility, ease of use and maintenance, floor space, electrical requirements, and budget. Be sure to choose a machine that meets your requirements and aligns with your goals.
