Sustainability has generated buzz in every industry, from urban planning to economics to agriculture. Regarding the environment, sustainability generally means using resources such as energy, water, and raw materials to meet current needs without using them at the expense of future generations. It is about balancing economic growth and human development with the preservation of the environment. Metal rollforming supports sustainability—it produces minimal waste, does not use an enormous amount of energy, and metal is 100 percent recyclable.
From the material used to the equipment making things happen, there is a growing emphasis on minimizing waste, reducing energy consumption, and implementing eco-friendly practices at every step of the process. This article explores how green manufacturing practices and the latest eco-friendly equipment shape the future of metal rollforming.
Why sustainability matters in metal rollforming
Metal rollforming is often associated with durability, precision, and
high-volume production. In an era where environmental concerns are front and center, manufacturers and contractors must consider their ecological footprints. Being sustainable is not just good for the planet; it is also good for business. It can help contractors:
- Attract eco-conscious clients: Many building owners and architects prioritize green solutions.
- Reduce operational costs: Lower energy usage means smaller utility bills and less need for transportation and delivery.
- Reduce waste: Waste is money, and with a portable rollformer, the panels are run to custom specs on-site, so there is minimal material waste.
Sustainable rollforming practices
There are a variety of sustainable rollforming practices, including:
- Optimized coil usage: Some panel fabrication methods produce excess waste from cutting and shaping. Advanced rollforming technology precisely measures and cuts only what is required, producing almost zero scrap material.
- Material recycling: One significant advantage of metals such as steel and aluminum is they can be recycled repeatedly without losing structural integrity. Any leftover material can be recycled, reducing waste and raw material costs. Also, the metal coil is generally made of at least 25 percent recycled material.
- Energy-efficient operations: Modern rollforming equipment is designed to run efficiently using powerful yet energy-saving motors and drive systems. Some facilities incorporate renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to power their operations, shrinking their carbon footprints and energy costs.
- Machine efficiency: Rollforming is a simple operation. It does not require heating up or cooling down, as it is not high-impact or speed-driven.
- Durable equipment: These days, many products are not built to last, and consumers are incentivized to replace items that still work, like smartphones and laptops. With proper maintenance and care, portable rollformers can last decades, keeping them out of landfills.
- On-site rollforming: On-site rollforming can drastically reduce transportation costs and emissions by removing the need to move large sheets or panels from manufacturing facilities to jobsites.
LEED certification
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) credits can benefit consumers who use eco-friendly building materials. LEED recognizes when a building or community uses materials to maximize energy efficiency and sustainability. LEED structures may qualify for rebates and other incentives and can increase property value.
Metal roofing benefits include:
- Many states offer tax incentive programs to encourage energy efficiency
through LEED. - Increasing energy efficiency is good
for the environment and saves customers money on energy bills. Since metal roofs keep buildings cooler in the summer, less demand for HVAC systems means more savings. - A metal roof can increase a
property’s value.
Insurance benefits
In some areas, metal roofing is essential for securing home and building insurance. Fire-prone regions in western states such as Colorado and California often require Class A fire-resistant roofs.
While no roof is entirely fireproof, metal roofing carries a Class A fire rating, the highest designation by industry standards, so Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends it in fire-prone areas.
Metal deflects heat and prevents the spread of flames. Aluminum and zinc alloy roofs are more fire-resistant than galvanized steel or copper, but all carry Class A ratings and do not require testing.
In contrast, to receive a Class A rating, asphalt shingles must be tested to ASTM E108 or UL 790 standards and have a combustion temperature of more than 343 Celsius (650 Fahrenheit).
The bigger picture
Sustainable metal rollforming goes beyond operating a few eco-friendly machines. It is about building a culture of environmental responsibility, from design to distribution. This can mean collaborating with eco-responsible suppliers, choosing recycled materials, and continually looking for ways to refine and improve processes to help eliminate waste.
Final thoughts
By investing in efficient machinery, cutting back on waste, and adopting sustainable manufacturing practices, contractors and manufacturers can help ensure metal construction remains a viable and eco-friendly option for home and business owners.
Metal also offers other sustainability advantages. Due to its Class A fire rating, it has become popular in areas prone to wildfires. It also handles snow loads efficiently and can withstand severe weather. Sustainability is not just a trend but is quickly becoming the standard for doing business responsibly. Staying ahead of the curve and implementing green practices today will benefit the environment and position operations for long-term success.
Rick Zand has worked as a freelance writer, college professor, and university director of admissions. He’s currently the content specialist for marketing at New Tech Machinery, a manufacturer of portable rollforming machines. He resides in Denver, Colo.