Gutter Machines
A gutter machine is a device for creating any length of seamless gutter out of steel, aluminum or copper. The material is fed through a series of moving rollers that fold and form the gutter then shear it at the desired length. The gutter machine requires an investment of several thousand dollars but it saves building contractors the expense, delay and hassle of ordering finished gutters from an outside supplier.
Set Up
Keep the machine in a sheltered space; if using outdoors keep it free of moisture or precipitation. Use a properly grounded extension cord to reach a power source. Close or secure all safety covers on the machine. Position the forward/reverse switch to the forward position. Place runout stands at least six feet from the machine, at six-to-eight foot intervals.
Sampling
If the machine has a steel-rolled drive that requires inserted coil material for transport, run out and scrap any of this material that remains. Run out a sample of gutter about eight feet long, and inspect for proper form, any scratches or faults from the rollers and any other damage. Check the rollers for proper alignment, and the positioning of entrance guides, if you find any problems.
Operation
Remove the retaining ring on the feeder spool. Pull the material forward, cutting off about three inches of material at a 45-degree angle at both corners of the front. Thread the front of your gutter material into the entrance guide, pushing to move it forward. Turn the machine on and guide the material out of the machine to the runout stands. Keep guiding the material out until the shear has cut the gutter at the proper length. Turn off the machine, disconnect the power, and reinsert the spool retaining pin.
Tags: gutter machine, runout stands, Turn machine