What is the difference between 3-roll and 4-roll plate bending machines?

When rolling, bending, or forming metal plates, several factors come into play when deciding what is the best solution for your project. Today, I wanted to share some of the differences between 3-roll plate bending machines and 4-roll plate bending machines.
When using 3-roll bending, you have greater control over the desired output shape. It is slower, but in our experience, it can roll much thicker material. Our 3-roll will form plates up to 2.5” thick material 60” wide or 2.00” thick material 120” wide, plus has the capabilities to pre-bend parts. This provides the opportunity to roll thicker and larger materials.
In comparison, 4-roll plate bending reduces the time it takes to run basic applications. Shorter cycle times create opportunities for larger runs. A 4-roll plate bending machine can be used for more efficiently rolling thinner materials like moldboards. The biggest difference is that 4-roll plate rollers are faster, safer, and easier to operate than 3-roll machines.
Basically, both types of plate rollers can do similar projects, it is more about finding the ideal solution for your needs. Please contact us if you need help determining the best rolling solution for your next project. Until next time, this is Travis Pomranke with Winnebago Manufacturing Company.