Plate Rolling Machine: Definition, Varieties and More

A plate rolling machine can be a valuable addition to your metalworking operation. They are good for small and medium-sized businesses that need to efficiently produce a large number of plates, but would it work for your business?

That’s what KRRASS is here to help you determine. Keep reading to learn what a plate rolling machine is as well as the components and features you can find on metal rolling machines. Plus, we included some different types of rolling machines to consider and the benefits you can expect for your operation.

Plate Rolling Machine Definition and Components

A plate rolling machine, or plate forming machine, will roll different kinds of sheet metal into round or conical shapes. This can be highly beneficial for a variety of industries including automotive, construction, consumer goods, home furnishings, and more.

Plate-bending machine components include the top roll and lower rolls or side rolls. These are the parts that shape the metal plates into desired cones or cylinders. Additionally, these machines have a transmitting device with the gear, shaft, shaft pin, and retaining cover that ensures smooth and swift movement and the frame, drop end part, and drive system.

There are a few sheet metal rolling machine varieties that you might want to be aware of so you can select the best option for your business.

Plate Rolling Machine Varieties

The different varieties of sheet rolling machines are generally categorized by the number of rolls, the type of power, and the pinch, but there are also some based on the geometry of the result. Here are some of the main categories to be aware of.

Hydraulic vs. Electric Metal Plate Roller

First, it’s important to examine the different powers. They are generally placed into two categories: hydraulic and electric. Hydraulic rolling machine construction uses a mechanical motor and is a cost-effective approach to small and medium metalworking operations.

Electric metal rolling machines, on the other hand, are typically more efficient and easier to use, making them preferred for larger operations or for businesses that plan to scale no matter how quickly.

Three-Roll Initial-Pinch Plate Rolling Machine

Also known as a single initial pinch metal plate roller, these options are generally for low-volume operations but can be both electric or hydraulic. They pinch the flat metal sheet between two rolls, whole a third offset bending roll will ensure the correct bend.

They are cost-effective but do require more operation because, in most cases, they require removal and reinsertion of the sheet to prebend both ends.

Double-Pinch Plate Roller Machine

These steel plate rolling machines can create more unique shapes and can have 3 or 4 rolls. They are also called double-pinch pyramid plate rolls or double-initial-pinch plate rolling machines and have a more efficient operation than three-roll initial-pinch models.

There are options available for almost any size operation from very low volume to heavy-duty sheet metal roller options. This is why they are one of the most popular styles of steel roller machines on the market today.

Four-Roll Styles

Four-roll steel sheet rolling machine varieties have an additional roller that pinches the plates during the rolling process. This can accelerate production times because the operator can pre-bend the leading edge, roll the cylinder or cone body, and finish off the trailing pre-bend all in the same direction.

That’s why these are often recommended for high-volume businesses or industries where both speed and precision are necessary.

Two-Roll Machines

Two-roll machines are small plate rollers designed for thin-gauge material, which means they aren’t recommended as heavy-duty steel plate rolling machines. However, they are swift and will roll round parts even if the metal has cutouts or holes.

One of the downsides is that they require a separate mandrel for each diameter and material thickness, but if you only need to roll a few different shapes or materials they can be fast, affordable, and effective.

Benefits of Plate Rolling Machines for Your Business

Plate and sheet metal cone rolling machine models offer a lot of advantages for your business including efficiency, precision, increased output, and easy operation.

Efficiency

While some steel sheet rolling machine options are more efficient than others, these machines can help you boost productivity. That means more work gets done and you have the capacity for higher revenue.

Precision

Plate rolling machines are very precise and the accuracy can mean happier clientele no matter what industry you’re in. That’s why they are used in industries where accuracy is critical like aerospace or construction.

High Output

Connected with efficiency is the benefit of high-volume output. This is especially true of 4-roll steel plate bending machines, but any of these options both hydraulic and electric can help you increase output compared to manual bending processes.

Simplicity

Plate rolling machines are easy to use, safe, and effective. While some training is required, they are easier to use than many of the alternatives, especially models that pinch both sides because that means your team will not have to weld, and if they do the welding will be minimal.

Conclusion

As you can see, a plate rolling machine is a great addition to business operations in a variety of industries. They can help you produce a higher volume of highly precise bends that elevate your business and your bottom line.