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Why Training Matters For Portable Rollforming Machines

Submitted By New Tech Machinery

Owning a portable rollforming machine can open new revenue streams and upgrade the quality of your metal roofing, siding, or seamless gutter business. However, these machines aren’t just “plug and play”.

Portable rollformers require proper setup, operation, and maintenance. Training can help you and your team get the most value from your machine, minimize downtime, and produce consistently high-quality metal panels or gutters, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.

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We spoke with Tim LaGuardia, New Tech Machinery (NTM) Assistant Service Manager, about the NTM training program. Learn from him what’s covered in NTM training, and how it will help your business thrive.

What’s Covered in NTM Training?

  1. Machine Setup & Operation
    Training begins with how to properly set up your portable rollformer—covering everything from correctly leveling the machine to entering settings on the controller. You’ll learn best practices for feeding material, making adjustments, and preventing common issues like misfeeds. “Knowing how to properly set up your machine will help ensure your profiles run properly and produce quality panels,” says LaGuardia.

  2. Safety Protocols
    Any piece of heavy equipment poses risks. NTM training reviews essential safety measures—from wearing protective gear to understanding emergency stops. “Our machines are designed for optimal safety, from shear guards to cover sensors,” says LaGuardia. “Knowing how to operate your machine safely is essential to keeping your crew injury-free.”

  3. Maintenance & Troubleshooting
    Regular upkeep is the key to extending your machine’s lifespan. NTM trainers walk you through cleaning, lubrication schedules, and part inspections to catch potential issues early. “When problems arise—like jams, uneven forming, or unexpected error messages—knowing how to troubleshoot quickly can keep your work on schedule,” LaGuardia advises.

  4. Controller Programming
    NTM rollforming machines come equipped with advanced controllers, allowing you to automate tasks and quickly change panel lengths or profiles. Training covers how to program your controller for specific jobs, navigate various menu options, and enter the correct parameters for different materials. “A solid grasp of the controller’s capabilities can help you save time and reduce the risk of errors,” says LaGuardia. “And keeping your controller up to date is essential.”

  5. Profile Adjustments & Calibration
    Over time, wear and tear or swapping out materials can cause slight discrepancies in panel dimensions. Training helps you understand how to calibrate your machine and make adjustments so your finished product meets exact specifications. According to LaGuardia, “Even changing coil widths may require small adjustments. Knowing how to do it right will save you time on the job.”

new-tech-training-matters-2Locations for Training

  • NTM Headquarters: All new NTM machine owners can receive free training at our facility in Aurora, Colorado. You’ll work with machines under the trainer’s guidance and supervision. You’re encouraged to bring your whole crew in for training.

  • On-Site Training: If you prefer hands-on guidance at your job site or facility, an NTM machine expert can train you in your own workshop. This ensures your team learns with the exact machine(s) and materials you use daily. For onsite training, the customer is responsible for service charges and the trainer’s transportation and incidental expenses.

  • Ongoing Resources: NTM offers articles and instructional videos. These resources can teach you about machine maintenance, changeovers on specific profiles, width adjustments, and much, much more. It’s all available in the Learning Center on the NTM website (newtechmachinery.com).

Keep in mind, even if you’ve owned and operated an NTM portable rollformer in the past, chances are, you’ll find some differences in your new machine. “Just because you ran an older machine for a number of years doesn’t mean you don’t need training,” says NTM service technician and trainer Tanner McBride. “Our machines aren’t the same as they were fifteen years ago, so you’ll need to learn how to operate the newer version.”

Conclusion

Training isn’t just a perk—it’s a strategic investment in the success of your portable rollforming business. Whether you choose on-site instruction or a visit to NTM’s headquarters, you’ll walk away with the expertise to keep your machine running safely, efficiently, and profitably. By understanding every aspect of setup, operation, and maintenance, you’ll elevate the quality of your work and build a stronger reputation among your customers.

About New Tech Machinery

New_Tech_Machinery_logoSince 1991, New Tech Machinery (NTM) has helped contractors worldwide gain more control of their projects and profits by manufacturing the world’s finest portable rollforming machines used to form a wide range of metal roof and wall panel profiles, as well as a variety of seamless gutter profiles. To date, NTM has sold machines in more than 40 countries throughout the world.

NTM's seamless gutter machines and metal roof panel machines have revolutionized the metal construction industry by bringing versatile, easy-to-use rollforming products directly to the job site. New Tech Machinery is a proud member of MCA (Metal Construction Association), NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association) and CRA (Colorado Roofing Association). For more information, visit https://newtechmachinery.com.

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