The metalworking industry is driven by precision, repeatability and efficiency.
Whether in automobile manufacturing, HVAC system assembly, or the production of structures for renewable energy, the quality of the final product starts with choosing the right machine to shape tubes and sheets.
Forming machines are equipment that allows raw metal material to be transformed into components ready for assembly, without compromising the material’s structural integrity.
Over the past years, VLB Group has established itself as a global leader in this segment, combining high-level engineering, cutting-edge CNC technology and customized solutions for various sectors.
What Forming Machines Are and Why They Are Essential
Forming machines shape metals through mechanical processes such as bending, profiling, cutting, or stamping, ensuring:
- Dimensional precision: each part is identical to the previous one.
- Time optimization: continuous and automated production.
- Flexibility: suitable for different geometries and metal alloys.
- Less waste: maximum utilization of raw material.
- 24/7 productivity: capable of operating continuously.
Real-life example:
In a photovoltaic park construction project, a VLB profiling line can produce all structural profiles with precise angled cuts, eliminating rework and ensuring rapid on-site assembly.
Categories of VLB Group Forming Machines
VLB Group organizes its portfolio into three main areas:
- Tube Bending Machines
- Tube Forming Machines
- Sheet Forming Machines
Each machine is developed for different types of production, but they all share a common goal: maximum quality and productivity.
VLB Group CNC Tube Bending Machines
Electric Motion Technology
VLB’s CNC tube benders use Electric Motion technology, where all or some of the axes are driven by high-precision electric servomotors.
This ensures:
- Lower energy consumption
- Smooth and controlled movements
- Higher production speed
EB Series – Light
The fully electric CNC tube benders – EB Light Series – are designed for high-volume production with medium diameters, offering high precision and speed.
Main specifications:
- Diameter: 6 to 83 mm
- Up to 11 fully electric drive axes
- Booster system for bends up to 1D radius with minimal inner marking
- Optimized drives for low energy consumption
Applications by sector:
- Automotive: chassis components and exhaust systems
- Furniture: tubular metal structures
- Aerospace and HVAC: precision curved parts
See more about the EB Light Series
EB Series – Heavy Duty
The fully electric CNC tube benders – EB Heavy Duty Series – are designed to bend large-diameter tubes while maintaining high productivity and consistency.
Main specifications:
- Diameter: 18 to 150 mm
- Up to 11 fully electric drive axes
- Booster system for bends up to 1D radius
- Robust structure for demanding tasks
Applications by sector:
- Energy: tubular structures for wind towers
- Shipbuilding: large-diameter piping
- Heavy industry: transport equipment and machinery
See more about the EB Heavy Duty Series
EB Series – Heavy Duty UD (Up-Down)
The EB Heavy Duty UD Series takes flexibility to the next level, featuring the POB (Positioner Up-Down) system that enhances ergonomics and bending versatility.
Main specifications:
- Diameter: 6 to 220 mm
- Up to 13 fully electric drive axes
- Booster system for bends up to 1D radius
- Vertical and horizontal movement in the positioner for easier operation
Applications by sector:
- Defense: highly complex tubular structures
- Aerospace: large structural parts
- Shipbuilding and industrial: complex tubular systems
See more about the EB Heavy Duty UD Series
EB-RH Series — 360° Rotating Head
Strategic benefit:
Reduces the number of operations by allowing bends in both directions in a single cycle, optimizing production time.
Main specifications:
- Diameters: up to 83 mm
- CNC axes: 11 fully electric
- Bending head with full radial rotation
- Capable of multiple fixed and variable radii
- VLB 3D software with collision simulation
Applications by sector:
- Automotive: exhaust systems, roll cages, stabilizer bars
- Aerospace: lightweight tubular structures
- HVAC: coils, complex connections
EB-LR Series — Left/Right Bending
Strategic benefit:
The flexibility of the left/right bending head allows the production of parts with geometries that would require two operations on other machines.
Main specifications:
- Diameters: up to 32 mm
- CNC axes: 8 fully electric
- Capable of bends up to 1D radius with minimal marking
Applications by sector:
- Furniture: tubular structures for chairs and tables
- Industrial components: parts with multiple bends
- Aerospace: complex ducts
See more about the EB-LR Series
EB-CB Series — For Copper, Aluminum and Stainless Steel
Strategic benefit:
The integration of four operations eliminates movements between machines, increasing productivity.
Main specifications:
- Diameters: 4 to 22 mm
- CNC axes: 6 to 7
- Integrated operations: straightening, forming, bending, and cutting
Applications by sector:
- HVAC and refrigeration: coils and heat exchangers
- Appliances: piping for washing machines and refrigerators
- Automotive: fuel and cooling lines
See more about the EB-CB Series
ECO Series – Automatic and Semi-Automatic CNC Electric Machines
Strategic benefit:
Ideal for those who need a robust and easy-to-operate machine with intuitive programming.
Main specifications:
- Diameters: up to 92 mm
- CNC axes: 3 (angle, rotation, and distance)
- Hybrid electric/hydraulic system
Applications by sector:
- Agriculture: greenhouse structures
- Construction: handrails, supports
- Shipbuilding: piping and structures
See more about the ECO Series – Automatic – Semi-Automatic
Tube Forming Machines – EF Series
Strategic benefit:
Integration with CNC benders allows the production of complete parts in a single cell.
Main specifications:
- Up to 6 workstations
- Electric and hybrid versions
- Rotating tools for special operations
Applications by sector:
- Automotive: exhaust pipe ends, air intakes
- Aerospace: structural connections
- Furniture: aesthetic tube ends
See more about EF Series Tube Forming Machines
VLB Group Sheet Forming Machines
Sheet Cutting Lines
These machines are used in industry to cut large rolls of metal into smaller pieces, such as sheets or strips, with the right size for each application.
These machines unroll the coil, straighten the metal, cut it, and in some cases, stack the finished pieces. They are used in various sectors, including construction and the automotive industry.
Applications:
- Structures for solar energy
- Industrial gates
- Metal cladding
See more about Sheet Cutting Lines
Stamping Lines
These are automated systems used in industry to manufacture metal parts in large quantities. They operate like a production line that combines multiple presses and tools, performing different operations such as cutting, bending, or forming automatically and in the correct sequence.
The goal is to produce parts with high precision and speed, especially when many units are required.
Applications:
- Decorative panels
- Automotive components
- Construction profiles
Roll Forming Machines
These are industrial machines that shape metal sheets, giving them specific cross-sectional profiles.
They are widely used in construction and other industries to produce large quantities of metal profiles, such as those used in roofs, facades and structures.
Applications:
- Structural profiles: U, C, Z, Sigma
- Industrial shelving and racks
- Facade panels
See more about Roll Forming Machines
Complete Comparison Table
| Series | Type | Max Diameter | Number of Axes | Integrated Operations | Key Sectors |
| EB-RH | Electric CNC | 83 mm | 11 | Multiple bending | Automotive, HVAC |
| EB-LR | Electric CNC | 32 mm | 8 | Two-direction bending | Furniture, Aerospace |
| EB-CB | Electric CNC | 22 mm | 6–7 | 4 operations | HVAC, Refrigeration |
| ECO | Hybrid | 92 mm | 3 | CNC bending | Construction, Agriculture |
| EF | Electric/Hybrid | — | — | Multiple forming | Automotive, Furniture |
| Roll Forming Machines | Sheet CNC | — | — | Roll forming | Construction, Energy |
Benefits of Choosing VLB Group
- Constant innovation: integration with automation and robotics.
- High-level engineering: collaboration with universities and research centers.
- Global service: technical assistance worldwide.
- Full customization: machines adapted to the client’s production process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Forming Machines
- What is a CNC Forming Machine?
A CNC forming machine is industrial equipment controlled by computer that shapes metal tubes or sheets with high precision and repeatability. CNC technology allows all movements to be programmed, ensuring production consistency and reducing errors. - What is the difference between an electric and a hybrid bender?
- Electric bender: all axes are driven by electric servomotors, ensuring smooth movements, low energy consumption, and reduced maintenance.
- Hybrid bender: combines electric and hydraulic drives, providing higher force for applications that require more intense deformation.
- Can VLB Forming Machines be integrated into an automated line?
Yes. All VLB forming machines are designed for easy integration into robotic cells or automated production lines. Machines can be connected to automatic loading/unloading systems, tube warehouses, and manipulators. - What is the average lifespan of these machines?
With preventive maintenance and proper use, VLB forming machines can exceed 15 years of continuous operation while maintaining precision and productivity. - Which are the main sectors that use Forming Machines?
- Automotive: exhaust systems, chassis, roll cages, ducts
- Aerospace: lightweight tubular structures and high-precision connections
- HVAC and refrigeration: coils, heat exchangers, and piping
- Construction and energy: structural profiles, cladding, and supports
- Furniture: metal structures and customized parts
- Where can I find more information and technical specifications?
All technical datasheets, images, and videos are available on the official VLB Group website:
www.vlb-group.com
Written by: Vasco Barros
