What the client need to prepare when you received the roll forming machines

Here is a comprehensive checklist of what you need to prepare before the cold roll forming machine arrives at your factory.

1. Foundation & Floor Space (Most Critical)

• Confirmed Layout Drawing: Obtain and strictly follow the foundation layout drawing provided by the machine manufacturer. This includes exact dimensions, bolt hole positions, and depth requirements.

• Solid, Level Floor: The foundation must be perfectly level (use a precision level) and capable of supporting the machine's weight (which can be several tons) and the dynamic loads during operation. A reinforced concrete pad is standard.

• Anchor Bolts: Pre-set the anchor bolts into the foundation according to the drawing. Protect the threads from damage and concrete spillage. The most common method is to use template jigs during the concrete pour to ensure bolt placement is accurate.

• Clearance & Space: Ensure there is ample space around the machine for:

  • Material Handling: Clear access for a forklift or overhead crane to bring raw material coils to the decoiler.

  • Operation & Maintenance: Space for operators to work safely and for technicians to perform maintenance (e.g., removing a damaged shaft).

  • Finished Product: Enough run-out space for the formed profile to exit and be cut to length. This can be 10-20 meters or more for long-length products.

  • Auxiliary Equipment: Space for ancillary equipment like a pre-punching station, if not integrated.

2. Utilities & Infrastructure

Coordinate with your facilities team to have these ready at the designated connection points before the machine arrives.

• Electrical Power:

  • Voltage & Phase: Confirm the machine's requirements (e.g., 380V/50Hz/3Phase) match your power supply.

  • Power Drop: Have a certified electrician install the correct main disconnect switch and power outlet/conduit at the machine's location.

  • Stable Supply: Consider a voltage stabilizer if your factory has significant power fluctuations.

• Compressed Air:

  • Many machines use pneumatic clutches, brakes, actuators, and lubrication systems.

  • Ensure you have a sufficient air supply line with correct pressure (e.g., 6-8 bar) and flow (CFM) at the machine.

• Lighting: Ensure the area is well-lit for operation, setup, and maintenance.

3. Material Handling Equipment

• For Loading Raw Material:

  • Forklift or Overhead Crane: Must have adequate capacity to lift the maximum coil weight.

  • Coil Cradle or Mandrel: To hold the coil for loading onto the decoiler.

• For Handling Finished Product:

  • Product Supports/Racks: To support the finished profiles as they exit the machine to prevent sagging and scratching.

  • Packaging Area: A designated area with tables, saws, and packaging materials (strapping, stretch wrap) for bundling finished goods.

4. Tools & Consumables

• Basic Tools: Have a full set of mechanics tools ready (wrenches, socket sets, allen keys, screwdrivers, hammers, etc.).

• Specialized Tools: The manufacturer usually provides special tools (e.g., mandrels for changing forming rolls), but confirm this.

• Lubricants & Fluids: Have the correct types of lubricating oil and hydraulic fluid (if applicable) specified in the machine manual on hand.

• Lifting Equipment: Have slings and shackles rated for the heaviest machine component (like the main shaft assembly) ready for the installation team.

5. Personnel & Planning

• Designated Team: Assign a project manager and a team (including maintenance technicians and operators) to be responsible for the installation.

• Schedules Aligned: Coordinate the arrival time with the shipping company and ensure your team and the manufacturer's installation engineers are available on the same dates.

• Unloading Plan: This is crucial. Confirm the truck's type (flatbed vs. container) and weight. Ensure you have a forklift or crane with sufficient capacity and reach to safely unload the crates. The heaviest crate could be the main frame or the decoiler.

• Storage Plan: If the machine cannot be installed immediately, have a secure, dry, and level area to store the crates off the ground and protected from the elements.