If your company business is forming and shaping metal products, you should consider adding stretch form machines to your shop. These machines are a must in metal fabrication shops that shape or expand heavy metal pieces. Stretch machines will help you meet the demands of auto body, rail car and heavy equipment customers.

Once you identify a metal stretching machine manufacturer or distributor, consult with them about your business parameters. There are several benefits to forming a long-term connection with your equipment suppliers. To identify stretch form machine manufacturers and choose the right machinery, do the following:

1. Search stretch form machine manufacturers' catalogs to determine which equipment is best for your business.

2. Compare new and used stretch forming machines.

3. Investigate different sizes and models of metal stretch form machines. If you can't find exactly what you want, have a shop customize a stretch form machine for you.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Search online catalogs from stretch form machine manufacturers

Stretch form machine suppliers offer an inventory of machines and related equipment. Find one with ample stretch form equipment in stock so you can order and receive it as quickly as possible.

I recommend: The folks at Erie Press manufacture the Sheridan Gray and Hufford brands of stretch forming machines for heavy industry, architecture and similar businesses. Capital Machine has a variety of stretch form machines. After viewing their catalog, visit a showroom for a demonstration or speak to a consultant on the phone.

Find new and used stretch forming equipment

Because stretch machines are a key component of metal-working shops, equipment changes hands regularly. You can often find used equipment dealers with a substantial inventory. Distributors also keep up with the newest equipment. They can help make sure you choose the right machinery for your shop.

I recommend: Machineseeker.com carries a huge inventory of new and used equipment. Check their database for a variety of stretch form machines. You can find a large variety of new and used equipment at Baileigh Industrial as well.

Have a stretching machine customized for your shop

New purposes and alloys hit the marketplace every year. If your business works with new materials and designs, have a tool maker create a customized metal stretching machine for you.

I recommend: TM Technologies provides an on-site consultation as well as customized machine designs. Marchant manufactures metal forming machines. You can contact their service department directly with your specifications.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Ask the stretch form machine suppliers about their warranties and service. The ideal business partner will back and service what it sells. If possible find a local metal stretching machine distributor to limit or avoid paying shipping charges.