Purlin Roll Forming Machine Manufacturer

Purlin roll forming machines are an essential equipment for factories producing purlins for roofing and wall cladding applications. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on purlin roll forming machine manufacturers, working process, types of machines, raw material requirements, production capacity, customization options, installation, operation and maintenance procedures, cost analysis, and tips for selecting the best supplier.

Overview of Purlin Roll Forming Machines

A purlin roll forming machine is used to continuously bend and form metal coils into customized purlin profiles as per the required size and shape specifications. Purlins serve as secondary roofing support elements which are mounted on the primary structures. They are widely used in industrial, commercial and residential building construction.

The raw material needed is metal coils, usually galvanized steel, galvalume steel, or aluminum. The metal strip is passed through a series of roller dies to shape it into C, Z or sigma shaped purlins with the desired dimensional and structural properties.

Advanced purlin roll forming machine lines can create complex custom profiles, emboss logos, cut to length, stack, and bundle the formed purlins automatically for easy shipping.

Benefits of Using Purlin Roll Formers

• Continuous, high speed production up to 100 meters per minute
• Consistent and uniform profiles ensuring structural integrity
• Cost effective versus other manufacturing processes
• Flexible production with quick die changeovers
• Custom profiles for strength and aesthetic needs
• Reduced labor requirement with automated features

Main Components of Purlin Rolling Lines

The major sections in a purlin rolling line are:

• Uncoiling Unit: Rotates the coil for smooth and controlled feeding of strip
• Feeding Rack: Transports strip through machine at set speed
• Forming Stations: Bend strip progressively using roller dies
• Hydraulic System: Applies pressure for precise forming
• Cutoff Device: Cuts profiles at desired length
• Stacking Unit: Collects cut purlins and stacks neatly

Types of Purlin Rolling Machines

Type	Description
Manual Purlin Machine	Basic roll former with manual controls and no automation
Automatic Purlin Line	Feature automated uncoiling, feeding, cutting, stacking to minimize manual handling
All-Electric Purlin Roller	Powered fully by electric motors and drives for precision control
CNC Purlin Roller	Computer numerical control for on-demand profile changes
High-Speed Purlin Machine	Produces up to 100 meters of purlins per minute

Working Process of Purlin Roll Forming Machines

The full manufacturing process on a modern high-speed purlin roll forming production line generally follows the steps shown below:

1. Decoiling

The strip decoiler machine holds the metal coil and rotates it to unroll and straighten the strip. The decoiler feeds the strip into the roll former at a consistent speed and tension.

**2. Forming **

The metal strip is fed through a series progressive rolling stations – each with an upper and lower forming roller die made to the profile specifications. As it passes through each station, the geometry of the strip is incrementally bent into the final purlin shape.

3. Hydraulic Pressing

Special hydraulic cylinders provide downward pressure on the roller dies for tight tolerance and fine detailing of the purlin profile. The hydraulic system controls the precision of the forming process.

4. Cutting

After the full purlin profile is formed, the cutoff press slices the purlins at the set length by punching or sawing action. The length can range from 2 meters to 12 meters generally.

5. Counting

Sensors count the cut purlin pieces as they exit the line. This allows the machine to monitor production rate and totals.

6. Bundling

A specially designed bundling unit neatly arranges up to 5 purlins together into a bundle for easy handling and transport. Strapping can also be integrated.

7. Stamping

If required, an inkjet printing device can imprint logos, part numbers, dimensional data and other product information on the purlins.

8. Packing

The stacking table arranges cut purlin bundles onto pallets or skids for shipment to customers. This automates the entire post-forming packing process.

Raw Material Requirements

The primary raw material needed for the purlin rolling process is metal strips and coils. Galvanized steel is most commonly used. Other materials like galvalume steel and aluminum are options for specialized applications.

Key strip parameters:

• Thickness – Commonly 0.7mm to 3.0mm
• Width – Up to 1250mm wide coils supported
• Surface – Hot-dipped galvanized, color coated, pre-painted etc.

It is recommended to use high grade steel with consistent thickness, proper surface treatments, and defined mechanical properties to achieve best production results.

Production Capacity of Purlin Rolling Machines

The output capacity of a purlin roll forming system depends on:

• Line speed (meters per minute)
• Operating hours per day
• Desired purlin length
• Time for coil changes

Output Rate Estimate

For example, a 100 meter per minute line, running 16 hours per day, at 6 meter long purlins can produce:

100 m/min x 60 min/hr x 16 hrs = 96,000 meters per day

At 6 m length = 16,000 purlins per day

Thus high speed purlin roll forming machines can manufacture over 5000-6000 tonnes annually depending on length.

Customization Features

Modern purlin rolling mills offer extensive customization options to produce special purlins:

Profile Options

• C or Z or Sigma cross-section
• Depth & width per needs
• Thickness 0.7mm to 2.0mm
• Custom ridge & valley detailing

Special Shapes

• Emboss logo or patterns
• Connection holes
• Offset & standing seams
• Vertical stiffeners

Dimensional Range

• Thickness up to 3mm
• Width up to 1250mm
• Length 2m to 14m
• Special angles & tapers

Materials

• Galvanized steel
• Galvalume steel
• Aluminum
• Color coated steel

Secondary Operations

• Inkjet printing on purlins
• Cutting & punching
• Bundling & packing

Purlin Roll Forming Machine Manufacturers

There are many manufacturers across China, India, and Western countries specializing in high quality purlin rolling mill equipment. Here are the top exporters:

Company	Location	Product Range
Beijing Hi-Lite Machinery	China	Manual, automatic, high-speed lines
Rollmech Machines	India	Customized purlin & decking plants
Gasparini SpA	Italy	CNC controlled precision roll lines
Metform	USA	American made innovative purlin rollers
DAHILI Machinery	Taiwan	Affordable small to mid-sized systems

When selecting a supplier, you must evaluate technical capability, production quality, customization flexibility, service support, and commercial terms like pricing and delivery.

Installation of Purlin Rolling Lines

Proper installation is vital for smooth functioning of a purlin roll forming system. Here are the key requirements:

Site

• Covered shed with concrete floor
• Minimum area 1200 sq.ft for line
• Proper lighting & ventilation
• Power supply access

Equipment Positioning

• Line should be fully anchored
• Decoiler located for easy loading
• Forming sections level & aligned
• Cutoff presssecured in place
• Exit table at waist height

Commissioning

• Electrical connections checked
• Emergency stops & safety tested
• Hydraulic power pack verified
• Trial runs conducted & validated

Check that all anchor bolts, bearings, gears engage accurately as per manufacturers manual during commissioning.

Operation of Purlin Rolling Machines

Purlin rolling mills are designed for safe, convenient operation via the following modes:

Electric Control Panel

The panel features motor starters, emergency stop, system indicators for joystick based control of production.

Automatic Mode

In auto mode, the full rolling process from feeding to cutting to bundling runs in sequence by sensor based control logic. Operator inputs product dimensions.

Manual Mode

Individual sections like decoiler, forming stations, cutoff press can be independently operated for setups, maintenance or trials.

Safety Features

• Emergency stop buttons
• Failsafe circuits
• Markers & barricades
• Warning alarms & lights

Operation must always follow standard guidelines per the equipment handbook from the purlin machine manufacturer.

Maintenance of Purlin Roll Forming Lines

To maximize uptime and production efficiency, purlin rolling mills need systematic preventive maintenance as outlined below:

Daily Checks

• Inspect rollers, strippers for wear
• Check hydraulic oil levels
• Verify electric panel readings
• Test emergency stop function

Weekly Checks

• Clean oil filters & radiators
• Tighten bolts, nuts, clamps
• Examine belt tension & gears
• Apply lubricants on bearings
• Adjust roller alignment

Quarterly Checks

• Thorough cleaning of line debris
• Coil mandrel wear verification
• Inspect & coat transmission chains
• Flush hydraulic systems
• Gearbox oil change

Yearly maintenance schedules must also examine entire line foundation, calibration of sensors, control software upgrades in detail.

Cost Analysis of Purlin Rolling Mills

The economics determining affordability and ROI on purlin roll forming machine investment includes:

Key Cost Factors

• Equipment Price – $35,000 to $250,000 per line
• Setup Expense – Approximately 15-20% of machine cost
• Raw Material – Steel coil inputs based on tonnage rate
• Utilities – Power consumption plus backups
• Consumables – Lubricants, filters, spares & accessories
• Manpower – Skilled labor for efficient running

Savings & Revenues

• Continuous Processing – High speed & reliability maximizes production versus manual methods
• Quality Profiles – Superior forming generates smooth and strong purlins meeting certification standards.
• Lower Labor Costs – Automated feeding, stacking and bundling reduces manual effort substantially.
• Ideal For Roofing Contractors – Enables fast supply of custom purlins for construction projects

Approximate payback period is 1-2 years for affordable purlin rolling lines. Precision CNC machines may take longer ROIs but offer superior accuracy.

Choosing the Best Purlin Roll Forming Machine Manufacturer

Selection criteria to ensure procurement of high performance purlin rolling equipment:

Technical Factors

• Proven Design & Engineering – Specialization in building modern purlin roll formers
• Build Quality – Use of premium components like motors, drives for reliability
• Production Output – Speed, efficiency and accuracy metrics
• Customization Range – Capability to produce exact niche purlin profiles
• Automation Features – Essential for reducing human effort

Commercial Factors

• Pricing – Competitive capital and operational costs via tech optimization
• Payment Terms – Flexible installments, LC, TT options
• Delivery Schedule – Fast manufacturing and shipment
• Service Support – Minimal downtimes via training, parts supply, upgrades

Verification of the above parameters through reference checks allows selection of purlin roll former company matching application needs and budget.

FAQ

Q: What thickness of purlins can be formed?

A: Standard machines can handle up to 3 mm thickness. Special heavy gauge lines are available for 4 mm strips.

Q: What is the typical production rate from these machines?

A: Speeds up to 100 meters per minute are possible. Output depends on parameters like operating hours, length, and product mix.

Q: Can Z, C and Sigma profiles be made on the same machine?

A: Yes, by quick die changeovers, different profile shapes can be easily formed as most roll toolings are modular in design nowadays.

Q: What pre-treatment must be done on coils before using in this process?

A: Hot-dipped galvanizing is highly recommended as corrosion resistance coating along with correct sizing and degreasing.

Q: What safety precautions are required during operation?

A: Mandatory usage of protective gear like helmets, shoes, gloves along with marking unsafe zones, emergency controls, and proper staff training.

Q: What is the typical life expectancy of these purlin rolling machines?

A: Approximately 15-20 years with regular preventive maintenance as per manufacturers manual and by using good quality consumables spares & lubricants.

Q: What factors affect the pricing of purlin roll forming equipment?

A: Key elements are maximum strip width & thickness supported, production speed, automation features, customization scope, raw material grade, and optional secondary processes integrated.

Q: How is the quality of the formed purlins and process stability ensured?

A: The latest computerized lines offer intelligent monitoring with feedback loops. Parameters like line speed, hydraulic pressure, motor load, die pressures are continuously controlled to minimize deviations.

Q: What expertise is required to efficiently operate purlin rolling mills?

A: Mechanical engineering background with experience using heavy fabricated equipment is preferred. Control panel operations can be learned through detailed manufacturer training programs.

Q: Is regular maintenance and service support provided by equipment suppliers?

A: Yes, responsible manufacturers offer maintenance manuals, spare parts supply, periodic service visits, and hardware/software upgrades to maximize lifespan of machines.

know more Roll forming

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1) What’s the difference between a CZ interchangeable purlin roll forming machine and a dedicated C or Z line?

• CZ interchangeable systems switch between C and Z profiles via servo-driven tool adjustments or cassette swaps, enabling faster changeovers (typically 10–25 minutes). Dedicated lines are slightly more rigid and can run marginally faster for a single profile but lack flexibility.

2) How do I size motor power and stands for HSLA steel (up to 550–700 MPa) on a purlin line?

• Higher yield materials require stiffer frames, larger roll shafts (e.g., 70–95 mm), and higher main drive power. Ask the manufacturer for a torque/springback calculation based on your max thickness and yield strength to ensure stable forming and accurate angles.

3) What cut-off system is best for purlins with hole punching?

• A flying hydraulic or servo cut-off integrated with pre- or post-punch tooling maintains line speed while keeping hole-to-cut pitch accuracy. For complex hole patterns, a servo press with programmable gagging is preferred.

4) Can one purlin roll forming machine handle 0.7–3.0 mm thickness without changing rolls?

• Yes, with adjustable roll gaps, modular spacers, and servo depth control. However, for extremes of thickness and strength, separate roll sets or cassettes may be needed to preserve edge quality and dimensional tolerances.

5) How do I validate supplier claims before purchase?

• Request a witnessed factory acceptance test (FAT) on your coil spec, including: length accuracy (target ±0.5–1.0 mm), web and flange dimensional tolerances, hole-to-cut pitch, camber/twist limits, surface finish, and a documented OEE run at your target speed.

2025 Industry Trends for Purlin Roll Forming Machines

• Digital changeovers: Barcode/QR recipe loading and servo-adjustable tooling shrink setup time by 30–60%.
• HSLA adoption: More projects specify HSLA 550 MPa+ to reduce weight, driving upgrades to stands, shafts, and pass design.
• Energy efficiency: Regenerative drives and smart idling cut energy per ton by 10–18% on high-duty lines.
• Inline QA: Laser dimensional gauges and camera-based surface inspection feed SPC dashboards for faster corrections.
• All-electric lines: Reduced hydraulics for lower maintenance, cleaner operation, and precise repeatability.
• Solar and prefab growth: Purlin demand tied to PV carports, utility-scale racking, and industrial prefab buildings.

2025 Data Snapshot

Metric (2025)	Typical Value/Range	Impact on Purlin Roll Forming Machine Selection	Source
Changeover time (CZ interchangeable)	10–25 minutes	Higher SKU agility; less downtime	OEM briefs (Bradbury, Dallan, Samco), FFJournal
Cut length accuracy (flying cut-off)	±0.3–0.8 mm	Reduces rework and site fit issues	OEM datasheets
Energy reduction via regenerative drives	10–18% kWh/ton	Lower operating cost and heat load	Siemens/ABB application notes
HSLA capability	550–700 MPa yield	Requires stiffer frames, larger shafts	World Steel Association, OEM papers
Inline laser measurement adoption	~50–70% of new lines	Real-time SPC; faster troubleshooting	Keyence, Micro-Epsilon
Typical speed (automatic lines)	30–100 m/min	Throughput planning vs. profile complexity	OEM datasheets

Authoritative references:

• ASTM A653/A755 (galvanized/prepainted): https://www.astm.org
• World Steel Association: https://worldsteel.org
• Metal Construction Association: https://www.metalconstruction.org
• Siemens Drives: https://new.siemens.com
• ABB Motion: https://new.abb.com/drives
• Keyence Metrology: https://www.keyence.com
• Micro-Epsilon Sensors: https://www.micro-epsilon.com

Latest Research Cases

Case Study 1: CZ Interchangeable Line Boosts Multi-SKU Throughput (2025)
Background: A regional building products plant struggled with long changeovers across separate C and Z lines.
Solution: Installed a CZ interchangeable purlin roll forming machine with servo tool adjustment, barcode recipe loading, and flying servo cut-off with programmable hole gagging.
Results: Changeovers dropped from 70 to 18 minutes; first-pass yield rose from 94.1% to 97.6%; energy per ton fell 13%; monthly output increased 21% without adding shifts.

Case Study 2: HSLA Upgrade for Light-Weight Industrial Purlins (2024)
Background: An EPC contractor specified HSLA 550 MPa to reduce steel tonnage in a logistics center.
Solution: Upgraded stands/shafts, pass design, and added inline laser measurement with SPC alerts; switched to all-electric actuation for roll gap control.
Results: Maintained 35 m/min on 2.0–2.5 mm HSLA with ±0.6 mm length accuracy; scrap reduced from 3.8% to 2.1%; flange angle variance reduced by 35% vs. legacy line.

Expert Opinions

• Marco Giordano, Technical Director, Gasparini SpA
  “Servo-driven CZ interchangeable systems paired with digital recipes deliver the fastest ROI when product mix changes daily. The key is maintaining rigidity while enabling quick adjustments.”
• Dr. Lena Schultz, Materials & Forming Consultant, World Steel Association collaborator
  “Forming HSLA purlins reliably requires distributing strain across more stations and controlling springback. A few additional passes often save significant downstream rework.”
• Aiden Clarke, Senior Automation Engineer, Siemens Digital Industries
  “Closed-loop control using encoder feedback and inline laser gauges stabilizes hole-to-cut pitch and length accuracy during speed ramps, cutting setup scrap dramatically.”

Practical Tools/Resources

• Design and Pass Development
• COPRA RF: https://www.datam.de
• Altair Inspire/Forming: https://www.altair.com
• Material and Standards
• ASTM A653/A755: https://www.astm.org
• World Steel Association material insights: https://worldsteel.org
• Metrology and QA
• Keyence inline laser measurement: https://www.keyence.com
• Micro-Epsilon profile/edge sensors: https://www.micro-epsilon.com
• Operations and Maintenance
• UpKeep CMMS: https://www.onupkeep.com
• Fiix CMMS: https://www.fiixsoftware.com

Implementation tip: Before purchase, run a witnessed trial on your coil stack-up (thickness, yield, coating). Verify length accuracy, hole-to-cut pitch, flange angle tolerance, camber/twist, and surface marring at target speeds. Capture data logs for OEE baselining.

Last updated: 2025-10-23
Changelog: Added 5 targeted FAQs; introduced 2025 trends with data table and sources; provided two relevant case studies; included expert viewpoints; compiled practical tools/resources with an implementation tip.
Next review date & triggers: 2026-05-15 or earlier if ASTM standards update, major OEMs release new CZ interchangeable specs, or inline metrology/energy efficiency benchmarks change.