Stretch Leveling Steel: The Red Bud Advantage

In the fast-paced world of metal processing, manufacturers and suppliers are constantly seeking the most efficient, cost-effective methods for processing materials. Stretch leveling has emerged as a game changer in this space, offering unparalleled flatness and stability to metal sheets. If you’re a sheet metal supplier, OEM, or metal processor, read on to learn how Red Bud Industries is transforming the science of leveling steel.

What is Stretcher Leveling?

Stretch leveling, or “stretcher leveling,” is a process used to remove internal stresses from metal sheets — primarily, Steel and Aluminum. This results in a product that stays flat after cutting. Unlike traditional methods that only work to flatten the material on the surface, stretcher leveling elongates  the entire cross-section of the sheet, effectively eliminating spring back.

The Superiority of Stretcher Levelers Over Temper Mill Rollers

For decades, temper mills  were the standard for achieving low stress flat material in the steel processing industry. However, the introduction of Stretcher Levelers has set a new benchmark for quality and efficiency. Here are some key reasons why Stretcher Levelers outshine temper mill (temper pass) methods:

• Reduced Material Memory: Stretcher leveling stretches the material  beyond its yield point, which reduces the material’s tendency to revert to its original shape. This ensures that sheets remain laser flat even after subsequent secondary processes.
• Preserved Thickness: Temper mill lines notably reduce the thickness of material while it is being compressed. In contrast, stretcher leveling maintains  the material’s original thickness.
• Lower Cost: Stretcher Levelers have a much lower initial purchase price as compared to Temper Mills. In addition, the maintenance costs over the life of the machine is substantially lower as well.

Materials

Stretch Leveling of Steel

One of the biggest advantages of stretcher leveling machines is that they can process a wide variety of materials:

• They adeptly handle Hot Roll Carbon Steel by eliminating the inherent stresses that can lead to distortion during cutting. This includes Hot Rolled Pickled and Oiled (HRPO) Steel  and Hot Rolled Dry (HRD) Steel, typically used in automotive, construction, and industrial applications.
• Cold Rolled steel, known for its tight thickness tolerances and smooth finish, retains its form and surface qualities post-leveling; this makes it suitable for precision applications.
• For Diamond Plate Steel, which is often used in flooring,  Stretcher Levelers ensure the material remains flat and stable; this, in turn, enhances safety and aesthetics.
• High-Strength Low Alloy (HSLA) Steel, while known for its strength and durability, can also be prone to warping during processing. Stretcher leveling eliminates this issue, making HSLA steel a viable option for various industries.
• Stretcher leveling can also be used on Galvanized Steel, known for its rust-resistant properties. As a result, this type of steel can achieve its desired flatness while maintaining the integrity of its zinc coating.

Stretch Leveling of Aluminum and Other Materials

Although Stretcher Levelers are mostly used for steel coil, they can also be used to level Titanium, Brass, Copper, and more commonly, Aluminum alloys. With its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties, Aluminum is increasingly used in applications like automotive panels, airplane frames, and consumer goods. Our machines can handle different grades of Aluminum with precision and efficiency.

Industries

This adaptability makes Stretcher Levelers a valuable tool for a diverse range of suppliers and manufacturers — including those in the automotive, aerospace, appliance, and construction industries.

These innovative devices have not only enabled our customers to improve their market share but have also allowed them to enter new markets like laser cutting.

Features and Benefits of Red Bud Industries’ Stretcher Levelers

Red Bud Industries is at the forefront of Stretcher Leveling Technology, providing solutions that bring significant advantages to metal processors:

• Quickest Cycle Times: Red Bud’s Stretch Levelers utilize Quick Draw technology to produce the fastest cycle times in the industry.
• Innovative Gripping System: The SUREGRIP® system features adjustable clamping pressure and non-slip, long-lasting metallic grippers, ensuring no movement of the steel during the stretch leveling process — even when processing oily materials.
• Elimination of Cardboard Inserts: A unique advantage of our Stretcher Levelers over similar models is the elimination of cardboard inserts during the leveling process. There is no need to worry about surface damage: Our technology secures your metal without marking or damaging the surface. Because the use of cardboard is not required, our customers also save on material and labor costs while minimizing waste.
• Tight Tolerance: Red Bud Industries’ Stretch Levelers are designed to achieve tight tolerances in the flatness of materials — ultimately ensuring consistency and accuracy.
• Simplified Operation: Our Control System provides intuitive touch screen controls that allow operators to easily navigate through various settings and parameters, resulting in faster set up times. In addition, our machines can be  equipped with cameras that provide real-time monitoring of the leveling process. This results in a faster set up and reduced downtime.

Perhaps the best part about the Stretcher Leveler’s operation is its automation. Because Stretcher Leveling is part of the cut-to-length process, the material  is loaded into the machine without operator intervention, after which it is leveled automatically. This frees up operators for other tasks.

• Durability and Maintenance: With lower overall maintenance costs and a design that requires no special foundations, these machines are built for longevity and ease of use. In fact, our grippers can be used for up to a year or more before they need to be resurfaced.
• Versatility: Capable of handling a wide range of material thicknesses and widths, our Levelers are built to accommodate diverse processing needs. A single machine can handle material thicknesses from .039″ (1 mm) to 1.00″ (25 mm) and widths of up to 96″ (2438 mm).
• Unmatched Warranty and Support: We offer a 5-Year Warranty and lifetime access to our 24/7 service hotline. It’s our goal to ensure your satisfaction and support even after the initial sale.
• Domestically Made: Red Bud’s Stretcher Leveling Machines are proudly designed and built in the U.S.A.

The SUREGRIP trademark is registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Custom Capabilities and Continued Innovation

At Red Bud Industries, we understand that each customer’s needs are unique — which is why we offer customizable Stretcher Levelers to meet your specific processing requirements. Our team of engineers will work closely with you to design and build a machine that can handle the materials, thicknesses, and widths your clients’ applications demand.

Retrofitting with Red Bud’s Stretcher Leveling Capabilities

One of the standout services offered by Red Bud is the ability to retrofit existing machines with our advanced Stretcher Leveling Technology. This means that companies looking to upgrade their capabilities do not need to invest in an entire new line. The best part? There’s no interruption in workflow or reduced throughput to existing systems.

Our Customers 

Red Bud Industries is trusted by a number of high-profile clients who recognize the unparalleled quality and efficiency of our Stretcher Levelers. Among our esteemed clients are Varsteel Ltd., MidWest Materials, McNeilus,  and Ratner Steel — companies known for their rigorous standards and commitment to quality in the steel service industry. Each of these organizations has leveraged Red Bud’s advanced Stretcher Leveling Technology to enhance their operational capabilities.

See for Yourself Why We’re the Preferred Manufacturer for Stretcher Levelers

Choosing Red Bud Industries for your leveling needs means selecting a partner dedicated to innovation, quality, and customer service. Our leveling equipment is not just about meeting the current demands of your customers — it’s about anticipating future needs and staying ahead of trends.

Interested in learning more about how we can revolutionize your metal processing operations? Contact us today for a quote or call us at (618) 282-3801, so we can help you achieve unparalleled flatness and productivity.