Method and Apparatus for Manufacturing Asymmetrical Roll-Formed Sections

Abstract

A roll-forming station for forming asymmetrical sheet metal beams with unequal flanges, where both of the unequal flanges contact the rolls simultaneously and where the diameters of the rolls are such that the bending moments applied to the unequal flanges are identical in magnitude. This prevents lateral displacement of the workpiece during forming.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to roll-forming, and more specifically to roll-forming asymmetrical sheet metal sections.BACKGROUND[0002]Roll-forming is a continuous bending operation in which a long flat strip of sheet metal is passed through several sets of rolls mounted on roll stands, each set of rolls bending the strip incrementally further and further until the desired profile is obtained. Typically, the process is used for manufacturing constant-section beams.[0003]While the e are many possible cross-sections that can be manufactured this way, when a cross-section is asymmetrical (such as an unequal-flange U-section), the rolls may not contact the workpiece simultaneously, or the points of contact may not be equidistant from the axial plane of the rolls. This results in lateral displacement of the workpiece, which can cause twisting, bowing, and other defects, as the workpiece passes through the subsequent roll stands.[0004]A need therefore exists fo...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a method and a machine for manufacturing asymmetrical angles, channels, and other asymmetrical profiles that includes additional technical steps for centering the workpiece during bending. By developing a roll stand and changing the location and interaction of the forming elements, as well as introducing a certain relationship between their sizes, the method allows for piece-work manufacture and simplifies the manufacturing process. The invention also helps prevent lateral displacement of the workpiece and results in a more symmetrical profile, requiring fewer roll stations to achieve the desired bending angles.

Problems solved by technology

This results in lateral displacement of the workpiece, which can cause twisting, bowing, and other defects, as the workpiece passes through the subsequent roll stands.

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