Zinc Roll Forming Material Guide: Coil Sizes, Properties & Roofing Applications

Zinc Roll Forming Material

1. Overview of Zinc in Roll Forming

Zinc is a premium non-ferrous metal widely used in roll forming for architectural roofing, cladding, and façade systems. It is known for its natural corrosion resistance and ability to develop a protective patina over time.

In roll forming, zinc is commonly used for standing seam roofing, wall panels, and rainwater systems, particularly in European construction markets.

Compared to copper, zinc offers a more uniform appearance and lower cost while still providing long-term durability.

2. Material Composition & Structure

Zinc used in roll forming is typically:

High-purity zinc (~99.5% or higher)
Often alloyed with small amounts of copper and titanium

Structure

Non-ferrous metal
Soft and highly formable
Self-protecting patina layer

3. Available Coil Specifications

Thickness Range

0.5mm – 1.2mm

Coil Width

400mm – 1000mm

Coil Weight

1 ton – 5 tons

Coil ID / OD

ID: 508mm
OD: up to 1200mm

Tolerance

Excellent formability
High dimensional consistency

4. Mechanical Properties

Typical values:

Yield Strength: 100 – 200 MPa
Tensile Strength: 150 – 300 MPa
Elongation: 30% – 50%
Hardness: 40 – 80 HB

5. Surface Finishes

Zinc is available in:

Natural mill finish
Pre-weathered zinc
Pre-patinated zinc
Quartz zinc (light grey)
Anthracite zinc (dark finish)

6. Common Roll Forming Applications

Standing seam roofing
Wall cladding panels
Façade systems
Gutters and downpipes
Flashing systems
Architectural details

7. Advantages of Zinc

Excellent corrosion resistance
Self-healing patina layer
Long lifespan (40–80+ years)
High formability
Low maintenance
Sustainable and recyclable

8. Disadvantages / Limitations

Higher cost than steel
Soft material (can dent)
Requires proper installation design
Limited structural strength
Thermal expansion considerations

9. Roll Forming Machine Considerations

Roll Tooling

Smooth rollers required
Surface protection critical

Speed

10–30 m/min

Lubrication

Minimal lubrication required

Cutting

Clean shear cutting preferred

Common Issues

Surface marking
Handling damage
Material distortion

10. Common Problems in Production

Surface scratches
Denting due to soft material
Handling damage
Uneven patina development
Coil marks

11. Pricing Guide

Typical global pricing:

Low: $3000–$4000 per ton
Medium: $4000–$5500 per ton
High: $5500–$7000+ per ton

Factors affecting price:

Alloy type (standard vs titanium zinc)
Finish (pre-weathered, coated)
Thickness
Market demand

12. Comparison with Other Materials

Zinc vs Copper

Zinc = lower cost
Copper = premium appearance

Zinc vs Aluminum

Zinc = longer lifespan
Aluminum = lighter

Zinc vs Galvanized Steel

Zinc = natural corrosion resistance
GI = cheaper

13. Best Industries Using Zinc

Architectural construction
Roofing systems
Façade design
Heritage buildings
Commercial construction

14. How to Choose Zinc

Choose Zinc When:

Long lifespan required
Architectural projects
Roofing and façade systems
Low maintenance needed

Avoid When:

Budget is limited
Structural strength required
High mechanical impact environments

15. FAQ Section

What is zinc used for in roll forming?

Mainly roofing, cladding, and architectural systems.

Does zinc rust?

No, it forms a protective patina.

How long does zinc last?

40–80+ years.

Is zinc better than steel?

For corrosion resistance, yes.

Can zinc be roll formed easily?

Yes, it is highly formable.

16. Machine Matcher Section

We supply roll forming machines for all material types including zinc.

Custom-built machines to your profile
New machines built to specification
Global delivery available
UK and USA technical support

Contact:
Machine Matcher
Sales & Technical Team

Quick Specs

Thickness
0.5–1.2mm

Yield Strength
100–200 MPa

Coil Width
400–1000mm

Coil ID
508mm