How to Inspect a Roll Former

A spec sheet tells you what a roll former is supposed to do. An inspection tells you what it will actually do once it's running in your facility.

Here's where we focus, whether we're inspecting in person or reviewing photos and video on a buyer's behalf.

Roll-forming stations

Check the rollers for uneven wear, pitting, or visible damage. Stations that have run consistent gauge material for years will show far less wear than ones pushed outside their rated range.

Tooling and punch stations

Look for chipped or worn punches, and confirm the tooling set matches what's listed. Missing or substituted tooling is one of the most common surprises in used equipment deals.

Hydraulic system

Check for leaks around cylinders and hoses, confirm the reservoir and accumulator are functioning, and ask when the hydraulic fluid was last changed.

Control system and software

Power it on if possible. Confirm the touchscreen interface responds correctly and that the control software version is current or at least supported.

Decoiler

Check the powered decoiler's capacity against your coil stock needs, and inspect the mandrel and brake system for wear.

If a seller is hesitant to provide detailed photos or video of any of these areas, that's worth noting. We build inspection coordination into every SFM transaction for exactly this reason: it protects both sides.

Talk soon,

The Steel Frame Machines Team

sales@steelframemachines.com | 954-444-4004

Miami, FL

Have a machine in mind? Ask us about inspection support.