Why Duct Beading Matters
Duct beading (also called duct grooving or stiffening) adds structural rigidity to sheet metal ductwork. Without beading, large duct panels vibrate, bulge, and whistle — creating noise and reducing system efficiency. A good beading machine ensures your ducts meet SMACNA stiffness class requirements and install without deflection.
Preda offers three beading machine configurations, each suited to different production needs.
Quick Answer
Most shops choose the CNC Rotary Beading Machine — it offers programmable bead patterns, automatic feeding, and consistent quality. Smaller shops or budget buyers start with the manual Rotary Beading Machine. The 5-Groove Duct Beading Machine is for shops that need multiple groove profiles in one pass.
Rotary vs CNC vs 5-Groove
| Feature | Manual Rotary | CNC Rotary | 5-Groove |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automation | Manual feed | CNC automatic | Semi-auto |
| Bead Patterns | 1–2 fixed | Programmable (unlimited) | 5 grooves in one pass |
| Max Width | 1300mm | 1500mm | 1300mm |
| Max Thickness | 1.2mm | 1.5mm | 1.2mm |
| Speed | Manual | 0–30 m/min | 0–20 m/min |
| Best For | Small shops, low volume | Medium-high volume, precision | Multi-groove applications |
CNC Rotary Beading Machine: Precision and Speed
The CNC Rotary Beading Machine is our premium beading solution. With Mitsubishi PLC control and servo-driven feeding, it delivers programmable bead patterns, automatic positioning, and consistent quality — every time.
- Programmable patterns: Store unlimited bead configurations in the PLC — recall any pattern with one touch
- Automatic feeding: Servo-driven feed system positions the sheet precisely — no manual measurement
- 1.5mm capacity: Handles thicker gauge material for high-pressure duct systems
- Fast production: Up to 30 m/min — process a full sheet in seconds
- Consistent quality: Every bead identical — no human error in positioning or depth
View CNC Rotary Beading details →
Manual Rotary Beading Machine: Budget Option
The manual Rotary Beading Machine offers reliable beading at an affordable price. The operator feeds the sheet manually, adjusting position for each bead. Ideal for small shops or low-volume production.
5-Groove Duct Beading Machine: Multi-Groove in One Pass
The 5-Groove Duct Beading Machine forms five parallel grooves in a single pass — perfect for shops that need consistent multi-groove stiffening on large duct panels. Reduces handling time and ensures even groove spacing.
How to Choose
- Daily volume? >100 sheets/day → CNC Rotary. 50–100 → 5-Groove. <50 → Manual Rotary
- Do you need multiple patterns? Different duct sizes require different bead spacing → CNC Rotary's programmable patterns save setup time
- Material thickness? ≤1.2mm → all work. ≤1.5mm → CNC Rotary only
- Operator skill? CNC is easier to operate consistently — manual requires more operator experience
Preda Care: Beading Rollers That Last
All beading machines use hardened, ground rollers for long life and consistent bead profile. Replacement rollers ship free when needed. CNC machines include lifetime remote PLC support and program backup.
Need Help Choosing?
Send us your duct sizes and daily volume — we'll recommend the right beading machine and calculate labor savings.
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