Forming tools shape metal without removing material. Shrinker-stretchers gather and stretch sheet to form curves and compound shapes. Bead rollers put strengthening beads and decorative profiles into flat sheet. English wheels form complex curves over a wheel and anvil. Press brakes bend sheet and plate to an angle, rated by tonnage and bed length.
Cutting and notching tools cut profiles and edges. Throatless shears cut sheet in curves and straight lines. Notchers cut corners for box and panel work. Beverly shears and plate shears cut heavier material.
Rolling tools curve sheet and plate into cylinders and arcs. Slip rolls are rated by capacity (material thickness) and by roll length, and they will only roll material within their rated thickness — heavier material damages the rolls.
These tools require setup and skill to use well. The same machine that produces a clean panel can wrinkle or tear it depending on adjustment and technique, and practice material is worth the cost.
