How to Master Ductwork with the CR8-CF Cleat Former

CR8-CF Cleat Former: Quick Specifications

The Ductformer CR8-CF is a heavy-duty 8-station rollformer specifically designed for HVAC duct flange connectors. This specialized sheet metal fabrication machine is engineered to produce high-quality S-cleats and Drive-cleats, serving as an essential tool for duct beading and edge rolling workflows in professional HVAC shops.

  • Configuration: 8-station rollforming design for maximum profile precision and smooth material flow.
  • Profile Capability: Standard S-cleat and Drive-cleat production for 20 to 28 gauge galvanized steel.
  • Durability: Built with high-strength alloys and precision bearings for continuous high-volume operation.

Simple and Fast Drive Cleat Forming

The Ductformer Model CR8-CF helps you form a Drive Cleat Flange on the end of your duct. First, this machine uses a single pass-through process. Because of this, it works great for both L-shape and Full Wrapper ducts. In addition, this tool makes your work much faster. Since you only need one pass, you save a lot of time on every job.

Strong Parts for a Quiet Shop

Furthermore, the CR8-CF uses a strong all-gear drive. Specifically, it has a direct oil bath gear reduction and “lube for life” bearings. As a result, this is the quietest rollformer you can buy today. Because the parts stay oiled, the machine runs very smoothly. Also, you do not have to worry about greasing the bearings. Therefore, your shop stays quiet and your machine stays in top shape for a long time.

How the Tooling Works for You

Next, let’s look at how the tool forms the metal. The rollers form 180° drive cleat hems on the edge of your metal sheet. As the duct moves through the CR8-CF, the system finds the notch on its own. Then, it forms the cleat edges for your L-shape or wrap duct. Additionally, we give you a Small Parts Feed as a standard feature. To use it, you simply clamp the parts to the guide and feed them in. Consequently, even small fittings are very easy to make.

Proudly Made in the USA

Ultimately, you will see the quality as soon as you turn the machine on. Indeed, the quiet sound proves that we build our machines with care. Just like all our products, we build the CR8-CF in St. Louis, Missouri. In short, we make it right here in America. Moreover, we back up our sales with the best service in the industry. Thus, you can trust Ductformer to help your business grow.

 
CR8-CF Cleat Edge FormerCR8-CF Cleat Former Brochure
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Cleat Form L-Duct
Drive Edge Formed L-Duct

CLEAT FORM FULL
Drive Edge Formed Wrap Duct

CR8-CF Cleat Former Technical FAQ

What makes the CR8-CF quieter than other cleat machines?

Ductformer engineers use a Direct Oil Bath All-Gear Drive system. Unlike standard chain-and-sprocket machines that clatter, our gear reduction system runs smoothly and silently, creating a better working environment while increasing machine lifespan.

Does this machine require daily greasing?

No. The CR8-CF is equipped with Sealed “Lube-for-Life” Bearings. This prevents shop dust and metal shavings from contaminating the bearings and removes the need for manual lubrication, making it a virtually maintenance-free machine.

How does the machine find the notch in the metal?

As the duct blank moves through the 8-station rolls, the system is designed to automatically detect the pre-notched edges. This ensures that the 180° hem is formed precisely where it belongs for perfect duct assembly every time.

Is this machine built for heavy-duty industrial use?

Absolutely. Like all Ductformer machinery, the CR8-CF is 100% American Made in St. Louis, Missouri. We use precision CNC-machined roll tooling and high-industrial standards to ensure it handles the rigors of high-production HVAC shops.

CR8-CF Automation vs. Manual Edge Forming

Efficiency Metric Ductformer CR8-CF Traditional Manual Formers
Drive Mechanism Direct Oil Bath Gear Drive Chain and Sprocket
Small Parts Capability Standard Feed Guide Included Difficult / Non-Standard
Maintenance Needs Lube-for-Life Bearings Frequent Manual Greasing
Notch Accuracy Automatic Detection Manual Operator Positioning

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