Which control system is suitable for Vietsteel Roll Forming Machines? PLC or PC control system
In the industrial machinery sector, a metal roll forming machine is not just a forming device — it is the core of the entire production line. For the machine to operate stably, accurately, and deliver high efficiency, the control system plays a decisive role. At Vietsteel Machinery – a leading manufacturer specializing in the design, production, and installation of roll forming machines in Vietnam – customers are often advised to choose between two common control systems: PLC and PC control system
So, what are the differences between these two systems, and which one is more suitable for your production needs?
Nội dung chính
PLC Control system (Programmable Logic Controller)
PLC is a programmable logic controller. This system is provided free of charge and comes standard with all machines ordered from Vietsteel.
Key features:
- Touch-screen interface with multi-language support.
- Manual order input: length, quantity, and punching positions.
- Supports up to 10 orders.
- Data storage for approximately 3 months.
- Simple and stable operation in continuous production environments.
Suitable for: Small to medium-sized workshops, simple and less frequently changing orders, and customers who prioritize lower initial investment costs.
PC Control System (Upgrade Option)
PC Control is an upgraded system that comes with a full Windows computer, keyboard, and mouse. It is not free, but it is considered a worthwhile investment.
Key features:
- Faster order input using a keyboard or by importing Excel/CSV files from anywhere (office, home, or remote locations).
- Saves 40–60% of the time spent on order input compared to PLC.
- Data storage for up to 3 years.
- Diagnostic functions: alarms, error diagnosis, production statistics, scrap quantity, and material waste tracking.
- Remote access capability via connecting software.
Suitable for: Large-scale factories with continuous production, companies that need strict production data management, order history storage, optimized manpower, and higher productivity.
Comparison PLC vs PC Control System
| Criteria | PLC Control | PC Control System |
| Cost | Free (included with the machine) | Paid (upgrade option) |
| Interface | Touch screen | Windows PC + keyboard + mouse |
| Language support | Multi-language | Multi-language |
| Order input method | Manual input on touch screen | Keyboard or Excel/CSV file import |
| Number of orders | Up to 10 orders | More flexible and higher capacity |
| Input speed | Slower | Significantly faster (saves 40–60% time) |
| Remote order input | Not supported | Supported from anywhere |
| Data storage | Approx. 3 months | Up to 3 years |
| Diagnostics & statistics | Basic | Advanced (alarms, production stats, scrap, material waste) |
| Remote control | Not available | Available via remote software |
| Suitable for | Simple production, few order changes | Large-scale production, many orders, strong data management needs |
Which system should be used for each machine type?
In a modern roll forming line, the control system plays a crucial role. It’s not just where operators set the length, quantity, or production speed, but also the “brain” that coordinates the entire machine operation. Two common solutions today are PLC Control and PC Control Systems.
PLC Control – a highly stable industrial control solution suitable for continuous production environments. The PLC controls machine mechanisms such as feeding, forming, punching, cutting, and safety signals.
PC Control System – offers an intuitive interface and more flexible data processing and management capabilities. The system can support product formula management, parameter changes, data storage, and integrate additional intelligent features depending on the requirements of the production line. So, which is better, a PLC or a PC?
| Machine type | Recommended system | Reason |
| Roofing Roll Forming Machine | PLC (small workshop) / PC (large scale) | Stable orders → PLC is sufficient; high-volume production → PC is more efficient |
| Step Tile Roll Forming Machine | PLC or PC | Depends on production volume |
| Double Deck Roll Forming Machine | Recommended: PC control | More complex machine, requires faster input |
| Seamlock / Kliplock Machine | PLC (small) / PC (large scale) | Better quality and data management with PC |
| C/Z Purlin Machine | Strongly recommended: PC control | Frequent size changes and many orders |
| Floordeck / B-Deck Machine | Recommended: PC control | Industrial production needs accurate statistics |
| Cut-to-Length & Slitting Machine | PLC (small) / PC (large scale) | Depends on data management requirements |
Recommendation by workshop scale
- Small workshop (1–2 machines): Choose PLC for cost savings and easy operation.
- Medium workshop (3–5 machines): Use PC for main machines and PLC for secondary ones.
- Large factory / Continuous production or export-oriented: Choose PC Control for higher productivity, better data management, and fewer operational errors.
Featured Roll Forming Machines from Vietsteel
With over 25 years of experience (established in 1998), Vietsteel has delivered more than 5,000 machines and production lines to over 500 customers in more than 50 countries. Some of the most popular machine lines include:
- Roofing Roll Forming Machine
Speed up to 60 m/min (Rotary-cut technology). Suitable for industrial buildings, residential roofs, and canopies. - Step Tile Roll Forming Machine
High aesthetic quality, ideal for villas and high-end houses. Speed around 8 m/min, material thickness 0.18–0.5 mm.
Power: Transmission: 7.5 – 15 kw; Motor-Pump: 11 kw
Weight of machine: 12 – 18 tons
Dimension: L= 6 – 12 m; W= 2.3-2.6m; H=1.6 m
Forming Speed: 5 meters/minute
Roller stations: 12 – 26 - Double Deck Roll Forming Machine
Produces two different profiles on one machine (e.g., roofing + step tile). Saves workshop space and labor.
– Power:
+ Transmission: 15 kw + 15 kw
+ Motor – Pump: 15 kw
– Weight of machine: 20 – 24 tons
– Dimension: L=12-14m; W=2.3-2.6m; H=1.7m
– Forming speed:
+ Step tile deck: 8 meters/minute
+ Roofing deck: 35 meters/minute - Seamlock Roll Forming Machine
Produces screw-less standing seam panels with excellent waterproofing and durability.
Power: Motor – Pump: 7.5 kw
Weight of machine: 6 – 7 tons
Dimension: L=6.0-7.5m; W=1m; H=1.6m
Forming speed: 18 – 20 meters/ minute - C/Z Purlin Machine
Flexible size changes, including fully automatic models that reduce changeover time.
Power: Total power: ~56kw
Transmission: 2x15kw + 5.5kw
Motor – pump: 11kw
Size changed: 3×1.5kw
Punch table: 2×1.5kw
Weight of machine: 28 tons
Dimension: L=16m; W=2.5m; H=2.3m
Forming speed: 18 – 20 meters/ minute (w/o punching) lower with punching - Floordeck / B-Deck Machine
Produces steel decking for composite concrete floors in high-rise buildings and industrial facilities.
Power: Transmission: 22 kW-45 kW,
Motor-pump: 11 -15kw
Weight: 20 -25 tons
Dimensions: L = 12-22m ; W = 2.1m ; H = 1.9m
Number of pairs: 32 – 42
Forming speed: 22-25 mpm
Vietsteel also manufactures other machines such as corrugated roll forming machines, Kliplock machines, cable tray machines, cut-to-length & slitting lines, and curving machines.
- Choose PLC if you need a stable, low-cost solution for simple production.
- Choose PC Control if you want higher productivity, better data management, and long-term operational efficiency.
Regardless of the control system you select, Vietsteel machines are built for high durability and are supported by 24/7 after-sales service.
Are you looking for a roll forming machine or need advice on the most suitable control system?
Contact Vietsteel today:
- Hotline / Zalo / WhatsApp: +84 906 898 860 +1 571 267 9638
- Website: www.vietsteel.com
- Email: info@vietsteel.com
- Add: 99 Truong Thi Nhu, Xuan Thoi Son Commune, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam