Pittsburgh Lockformer machine, also known as Lockformer machine or Rollformer machine, is a versatile machine.
Mainly used for processing sheet metal fittings and circular duct closed fittings, the Pittsburgh Lockformer machine is well understood by experienced customers when it comes to purchasing the right machine.
However, for new customers entering the pipeline manufacturing industry, the decision of which lock forming machine to purchase can be challenging.
Therefore, we are here today to provide a complete guide on how to buy a Lockformer machine.
- Voltage: Commonly used Lockformer machines are available in 220V and 380V, which are for domestic and industrial use respectively. The 380V machine is more powerful than the 220V machine. If the thickness of the processed galvanized sheet is less than 1.0mm and you do not have access to industrial electricity, the 220V machine is suitable. If the board thickness is less than 1.2mm, 380V machine is recommended.
- Weight: Conventional Lockformer machines typically weigh between 200KG and 280KG, with the exception of heavy-duty models. All models come with casters for easy handling. There are three commonly used Lockformer machines, including lightweight and conventional models. The lightweight models weigh 190KG, 210KG and 240KG respectively and are suitable for export due to their appearance requirements. They are a little more expensive than conventional models due to their more complicated finish (with creased corners, compared to the flat box of conventional models). Conventional models weigh 220KG, 240KG and 270KG, respectively. The difference between lightweight and conventional models is in appearance, weight and volume, not in the shape of the lock.
- Locking sheet thickness: The equipment is mainly designed for galvanized sheet processing. If you need to process galvanized sheets within 1.2mm, light or conventional type can be used. If the plate thickness is greater than 1.2-1.5mm for galvanized sheets or within 1.0mm for stainless steel, a heavy-duty Lockformer machine should be chosen. The heavy machine has 7 rows of wheels, which are larger and offer better wear resistance compared to the 6 row wheels of conventional and light machines.
- Lock Shape: The common method of purchasing a Lockformer machine is based on the required lock shape. If you need to make C-type clips, the six-function Lockformer (FEY-12A or FEY-12A2) is necessary. If you do not need clips but need square elbows, the four-function machine (FEB-16A4/FEB-16A1 or FEB-16A5) should be used. If only the simplest joint angle and other functions are required, the three-function machine (FEB-16A/FEB-2A or FEB-16A2) is sufficient.
Additionally, there are two other types of Lockformer machines: the single flat mouth machine and the button lockformer machine. The single flat mouth machine is used to splice plates, bending the remaining materials by 180 degrees to save materials.
It is also suitable for joint sewing in the middle of a round duct, which is similar to the seam sewing function of the joint angle machine. The difference is that the edge of the single flat mouth machine is slightly wider than that of the sewing machine.
The button forming machine is used for small air ducts and can only process galvanized sheets within 1.0mm due to its complicated forming process.
