The automotive industry, with its constantly evolving technology and increasing competitive conditions, has been in search of efficiency, precision and cost-effectiveness in production processes. An important part of this quest is roll forming machines. Especially in recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the demand for roll forming machines from Russian automotive manufacturers. So, what are the reasons behind this rise and why are roll forming machines so critical for the automotive industry?

What are Roll Forming Machines and Their Place in the Automotive Industry

Roll forming machines are machines that transform metal strips (sheets) into the desired profile step by step, through successive rollers (molds). This process offers the ability to integrate different operations such as bending, cutting, drilling on a single line. In the automotive industry, roll forming machines are used in the production of a wide variety of parts, from chassis components to door frames, from seat slides to bumper beams.

The main advantages that roll forming technology offers for the automotive industry are:

• High Production Speed and Efficiency: Roll forming is an ideal method for mass production. Thanks to continuous feeding and forming, it is possible to produce large quantities of parts in a short time.
• Precision and Repeatability: Modern roll forming machines operate with high precision thanks to computer-controlled systems. This guarantees the consistency of the manufactured parts in terms of size and form.
• Material Saving: Roll forming, which is a cold forming method, minimizes material waste as it does not require heat treatment of the material and allows the production of high-strength profiles even with thinner wall thicknesses.
• Flexibility and Variety: Mold change for different profile designs is relatively easy, which allows different products to be produced on the same machine.
• Cost-Effectiveness: High production speed, low scrap rate and long mold life reduce production costs in the long run.

Rising Demand of Russian Automotive Manufacturers

Russia has been experiencing a significant transformation in the automotive sector in recent years. The goals of increasing local production, reducing dependence on imports and ensuring competitiveness in the global market trigger investment in modern production technologies. In this regard, the main reasons for the increase in demand for roll forming machines are:

• Localization and Supporting Domestic Production: The Russian government is taking decisive steps to increase the rate of localization in the automotive sector. This increases the demand for local suppliers in parts production and encourages them to invest in modern production equipment.
• New Model Development and Capacity Increase: Russian automotive companies are trying to develop new models and increase their existing production capacities. This brings with it the need for efficient production tools such as roll forming machines.
• Seeking Technological Independence: Fluctuations in global supply chains and geopolitical developments are pushing Russian manufacturers to strengthen their technological independence. This requires them to improve their ability to produce parts in-house.
• Quality and Competitiveness Goals: The Russian automotive industry aims to produce high-quality and competitive vehicles that comply with international standards. Roll forming technology plays an important role in achieving these goals.
• Export Potential: Russian manufacturers evaluate not only the domestic market, but also the export potential in nearby geographies such as the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Export-oriented production necessitates highly efficient and high-quality production processes.

Result

The automotive industry will continue to be a critical component of roll forming technology in the future. In particular, in line with the goals of Russian automotive manufacturers to increase local production, strengthen their technological independence and achieve competitiveness in the global market, the demand for roll forming machines will continue to increase. This will provide a significant market potential for roll-forming machine manufacturers and contribute to a more modern, efficient and independent structure of the Russian automotive industry.