In This Guide
TDF Flange: The Standard for Rectangular Duct
TDF (Transverse Duct Flange) is the most widely used flange system for rectangular HVAC duct in Europe, Asia, and many other markets. A good TDF flange former ensures tight, leak-free duct connections that meet SMACNA and Eurovent standards.
Preda offers four TDF flange machine configurations, each optimized for different production volumes and shop sizes.
Quick Answer
Most shops choose T12 for standard 1.2mm capacity. If you work with thicker material (up to 1.6mm), choose T16. High-volume shops producing both TDF and TDC flanges choose Duplex (two forming heads in one machine). The Dual Head DTDF-15 offers simultaneous double-side forming for maximum throughput.
T12 vs T16 vs Duplex vs Dual Head
| Feature | T12 | T16 | Duplex | Dual Head DTDF-15 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Thickness | 1.2mm | 1.6mm | 1.2mm | 1.5mm |
| Flange Profile | TDF | TDF | TDF + TDC | TDF (double-side) |
| Forming Speed | 0–15 m/min | 0–12 m/min | 0–15 m/min | 0–20 m/min |
| Motor Power | 2.2 kW | 3.0 kW | 3.0 kW | 4.0 kW |
| Best For | Standard shops | Thick material | TDF+TDC flexibility | High-volume production |

T12: The Standard Workhorse
The T12 TDF flange former is our most popular flange machine. With 1.2mm capacity and 2.2kW motor, it handles the vast majority of commercial HVAC duct flange forming.
- Standard capacity: 0.4–1.2mm galvanized steel — covers 90% of commercial duct
- Precision forming: Hardened steel rollers deliver consistent TDF profile every time
- Easy adjustment: Quick-change roller gap for different material thicknesses
- Compact design: Fits easily in any duct shop layout
T16: For Thicker Material
The T16 upgrades to 1.6mm capacity and 3.0kW motor — perfect for shops working with high-pressure duct systems or thicker gauge material.
Duplex: TDF + TDC in One Machine
The Duplex TDF Flange Machine with Cleat features two forming heads — one for TDF profile and one for TDC profile — on a single machine frame. This gives you the flexibility to produce both flange standards without buying two separate machines.
Dual Head DTDF-15: Maximum Throughput
The Dual Head Flange Forming Machine DTDF-15 forms both sides of the duct simultaneously, effectively doubling production speed compared to single-head machines. Ideal for high-volume duct factories.

How to Choose
- Material thickness? ≤1.2mm→T12, ≤1.6mm→T16, ≤1.5mm high-speed→Dual Head
- Do you need TDC too? If your market uses both TDF and TDC, the Duplex machine saves space and money
- Daily volume? >500m of flange/day → Dual Head pays for itself in labor savings
- Budget? T12 is most affordable, Dual Head is premium but highest ROI for volume
Preda Care: Rollers and Support That Last
All flange formers use hardened, ground rollers for long life. When wear eventually occurs, Preda Care ships replacement rollers free. Remote adjustment support and video troubleshooting available anytime.
Need Help Choosing?
Send us your material specs and daily production target — we'll recommend the right flange former and calculate ROI.
Get Free Consultation