Roll forming apparatus and method

Abstract From the Canadian patent

A readily adjustable constant pressure is exerted upon, forming rolls of a roll forming machine for ease in setup and to accommodate variations in stock characteristics. In one embodiment, the upper rolls are mounted in a fixed position on roll stands and the lower rolls are supported by hydraulic actuators affixed to the bed of the machine. Alternatively the lower rolls may be fixed and the upper rolls connected to actuators. As a further alternative, both the upper and the lower forming rolls may be supported by actuators. Hydraulic circuitry for controlling the actuators including regulator devices and gauges at each roll stand is also illustrated.