A slip roll machine, also known as a slip roller(the working principle same as the plate rolling machine), is a sheet metal forming machine used to create curved shapes from flat metal sheets. This is accomplished by feeding a metal sheet through two or three rollers that are positioned symmetrically. The rollers are movable and can be adjusted to create specific radii or curves, depending on the application.
The slip roll machine works by feeding a flat metal sheet through the rollers while the rollers turn to grip the sheet and form it into the desired shape. This shaping process can be repeated multiple times until the sheet metal has been completely formed into the required shape.
Features of slip roll machines
- Rollers: Slip roll machines come equipped with two or three rollers that are positioned symmetrically. The rollers are mounted in bearings and are adjustable to produce various radiuses of bends. The top roller is the primary one, and it is responsible for holding the material in place and feeding it through the rollers.
- Frame: The frame of a slip roll machine is typically made of heavy-duty cast iron, welded steel or aluminum. This provides the necessary rigidity and strength to ensure accurate and consistent bending of the metal.
- Gearing: The gears of a slip roller are made of hardened steel to withstand the high stresses placed on them during use. The gearing also includes a locking mechanism that holds the rollers in place to prevent slippage during operation.
- Capacity: Slip roll machines come with varying capacities, depending on the size and intended use of the machine. They range from smaller, bench-top models with a capacity of about 12 inches to larger, floor-standing models with a capacity of 60 inches or more.
Five Applications of slip roll machines
- HVAC Ducting: One of the most common uses for slip roll machines is to create curved shapes for HVAC ducting. Slip rollers can be used to form cylinders, cones, and various other curved shapes, which are used in air ducts to achieve optimal air flow.
- Metalworking: Slip rollers are indispensable in metalworking shops, where they are used to create curved shapes from flat metal sheets. This includes fabrication of items such as automotive body panels, fenders, and fuel tanks.
- Artistic Metalwork: Slip rollers are also popular among metal artists who use them to create custom designs in ornamental metalwork, such as gates, railings, and decorative panels.
- Jewelry Making: Slip rollers are also used for jewelry making, where they are used to form a wide range of metal shapes for jewelry items. They are especially useful for creating curved shapes, such as bracelets and rings.
- Sheet Metal Fabrication: Slip rollers are a crucial tool for sheet metal fabrication to give the exact shape and size of the metal sheets, mainly for industrial applications such as roofing and wall paneling.
Final Words
In conclusion, slip roll machines are versatile, highly functional, and essential tools for the metalworking industry, jewelry making, sheet metal fabrication, and other related applications. They are a valuable addition to any industrial or hobbyist workshop and are a must-have tool for anyone who works with metal.