In most cases, the roll molding machine works in a continuous cycle. The material is fed into the machine, where it is constantly passed through each stage of operation to complete the final product.

Roll forming machines are made of long strip metal in specific configurations. In most applications, the required cross-section profile of the workpiece is specifically designed for the machine to bend metal as needed. In addition to roll forming, these machines perform many metalworking tasks, including material cutting and roll stamping.

Roll forming machines use multiple stations to bend metal at room temperature, where the stationary roller both guides the metal and performs the necessary bending. When the metal belt passes through the roll forming machine, each set of rollers bends the metal more than the previous stop roller.

This progressive metal bending method ensures the correct cross-sectional configuration while maintaining the cross-sectional area of the workpiece. Typically operating at speeds of 30 to 600 feet per minute, roll molding machines are ideal for manufacturing large numbers of parts or extra long parts.

Roll molding machines are also suitable for the manufacture of precision parts that require little to no finishing. In most cases, depending on the material being shaped, the final product has an excellent finish and very fine detail.