Process flow

Cut-to-length line process flow

A cut-to-length line turns metal coil into flat sheets through coil handling, uncoiling, leveling, length measurement, shearing and stacking. The final layout depends on material thickness, width, coil weight and speed target.

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1. Coil loading and entry preparation

The process starts with moving the coil to the entry section. Coil weight, inner diameter, outer diameter and crane arrangement decide the loading method and uncoiler configuration.

2. Uncoiling and feeding

The uncoiler supports and rotates the coil while the feeding system introduces strip into the line. Proper entry control helps avoid unstable feeding, surface scratches and edge damage before leveling.

3. Leveling

The leveler reduces coil set and improves sheet flatness. Leveler selection depends on thickness range, material strength and finished sheet tolerance. For thin or surface-sensitive strip, the equipment route should also consider surface protection.

4. Length measurement and shearing

After leveling, the line measures the required sheet length and cuts the strip. Depending on speed and material requirements, the project may use fixed shearing or flying shear cutting. Existing cut-to-length references include process speeds up to 100 m/min, with final speed confirmed by the material and layout.

5. Conveying and stacking

Cut sheets move to the stacking section. Finished length, bundle weight, stack height and discharge direction affect the conveyor and stacker design. Workshop space should be reviewed early because the stacking area can decide the total line length.

6. Data needed to confirm the route

  • Material grade, thickness range, width range and coil weight.
  • Finished sheet length, flatness requirement and tolerance target.
  • Target speed, shift schedule and expected production volume.
  • Preferred shear type and stacking/discharge arrangement.
  • Available workshop space, crane capacity and material flow direction.

Next step

Use this process flow as a starting point, then confirm final equipment details with material samples, workshop drawings and production requirements.

Review a cut-to-length project