Roll forming is often thought of as an ideal solution for engineers and manufacturers looking for efficient, high-volume production. The metal fabrication process is cost effective and efficient, as it streamlines production, decreases weight, and eliminates secondary processing needs.

Cost-effective, high-volume and efficient production all sound great, but there are a few things you may need to think about before you jump right in. Below, we’ve listed three important factors to consider before starting your roll form project.

1. Length of the Part You’re Roll Forming

Think about the type of product you’re designing. Is it a hinge for a door? Maybe it’s a track for a railway. If it’s a large component, like a train track, then you’ll probably want to incorporate roll form into your production process. Hynes Industries allows manufacturers to fabricate parts up to 53 feet in length. Roll forming is an effective way to produce lengthy objects. Below are a few common roll form applications:

• Truck trailer
• Grocery store shelving
• Construction cranes
• Elevators
• Green houses
• Garage doors

2. Secondary Processing Needs

Roll forming has the capability to produce very large products, and eliminate secondary processing needs compared to other processes, like stamping, press braking and extrusion. With roll forming, typical secondary processes such as notching, perforating, punching and post-painting, can be incorporated into tooling and dies.

Extrusion requires the material to age before starting any kind of secondary procedures, like stamping or punching. This can take extra time and labor when compared to roll forming, where the metal is shaped, stamped and punched all in one process.

3. More Efficient Production at Scale

Although the tooling and equipment for roll forming costs more upfront, the process can save resources in the long run. Roll forming runs like an assembly line as it streamlines fabrication. This speeds up production, reduces additional steps and reduces labor. As the volume of production increases, the overall cost (price per part) decreases.

Explore Custom Roll Form Projects Together

To achieve the full benefit of roll forming’s in-line processing, you need an expert partner to guide you through the entire product development cycle, and to push the boundaries of engineering possibilities.

Ready to discuss your next project? Contact Hynes Industries to schedule a consultation.