When fabricating a panel bead rolling is a must. In this article we will be discussing the top 5 most frequently asked questions about bead rolling, and go into explanation of each.
#1: What is Bead Rolling?
Bead rolling is a process when you use two opposite dies to make specific contours or shapes with a panel. This is nice to have when you are making one off custom parts, or trying to recreate factory contours in a panel that you may not be able to purchase from a store.
#2: What Does Bead Rolling do?
When you bead roll pieces it does not only put some design and style into the panel, but it also reinforces the panel, making it not as flimsy. Which really will help with the overall integrity of your project!
#3: How do I know what pressure to put my panel to get the shape I want?
The best way to be able to figure out how much pressure to put on your piece is to simply get some scrap metal and run it through your bead roller, counting the amount of turns you go in, until you get the shape/contour you want.
#4: How do I decrease distortion in my panel when bead rolling?
Distortion in a panel that you are making can be very frustrating since it will make your panel act more like a tin can rather than rigid and solid. The way around this is called pre-stretching. To do this you will have to get the bead line layed out, then stretch the panel using some type of tool or equipment in order to compensate for the beads. The easiest way to stretch a panel is to run it through the English wheel on the line that you are putting the bead on. Another way that you could do this is on a planishing hammer staying on the line just like the previous method but very carefully. Lastly if you do not have neither of those pieces of equipment you can use just a good old hammer and dolly. Each of these is a great way to get a rid of that irritating distortion!
#5: Can you go back and fourth on the bead roller too many times?
You cannot pass a panel through a bead roller too many times once you have the dedicated dies on it. As long as you keep the same pressure and stay in the same path as you had previously done, you will be fine.
Want to learn more about bead rolling? Look no further: