Bernardo English Wheel RSM 450
The Bernardo English Wheel RSM 450 is the compact and lightweight model in the range, suitable for thin sheet metal work in coachbuilding, restoration, and model making. With a throat depth of 450 mm and an internal height of 470 mm, it allows for shaping and curving small to medium-sized panels. It is suitable for sheet metal up to 0.8 mm (steel 400 N/mm²) and up to 1.0 mm in aluminum. The Ø 150 x 25 mm upper wheel, combined with the 6 interchangeable lower anvils included, allows for various types of precise curvatures. Weighing only 17 kg, it is easy to move and use in craft workshops, laboratories, and garages. An economical and practical solution for those who want to approach sheet metal working with a compact but efficient English wheel.
Key Specifications
450 mm throat depth and 470 mm internal height
Capacity: up to 0.8 mm steel (400 N/mm²), up to 1.0 mm aluminum
Main wheel Ø 150 x 25 mm
Includes 6 lower anvils and 1 upper wheel
Compact structure and low weight (17 kg)
Suitable for model making, restoration, and small coachbuilding jobs
Technical table:
| Specification |
Value |
| Brand |
Bernardo |
| Model |
RSM 450 |
| Throat |
450 mm |
| Internal height |
470 mm |
| Max. sheet thickness (steel 400 N/mm²) |
0.8 mm |
| Max. aluminum thickness |
1.0 mm |
| Main wheel (Ø x width) |
150 x 25 mm |
| Machine dimensions (L x W x H) |
670 x 680 x 1470 mm |
| Weight |
approx. 17 kg |
Package contents:
Bernardo English wheel RSM 450
1 upper wheel Ø 150 x 25 mm
6 interchangeable lower anvils
Logistics
Bernardo shipping: 5–9 business days (7 days to the South). Original spare parts available with 3–5 business days shipping. Customer support available in Italian.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an English wheel and what is it used for?
The English wheel is a machine for forming sheet metal with double curvature: two opposing rollers (upper and lower) press the sheet metal which is moved back and forth, progressively creating curved surfaces such as fenders, hoods, body panels, and boat hulls. It is the fundamental machine for artisanal coachbuilding and the construction of aluminum components with complex surfaces.
What is the difference between RSM 450, RSM 560, RSM 700, RSM 830, RSM 960, RSM 1040 and RSM 1100?
The number indicates the useful working width in mm — i.e., the maximum distance between the centers of the rollers where the sheet metal can be worked. The RSM 450 (450 mm) is the most compact for small parts; the RSM 1100 (1100 mm) is the largest for standard-sized body panels. The choice depends on the maximum width of the panels to be formed.
What sheet metal thicknesses does the RSM series work with?
In aluminum: up to 1.5–2.0 mm depending on the model. In mild steel: up to 1.0–1.5 mm. For thicker sheets, the required force increases significantly — check the specific model's limits in the technical table. The RSM 1100 × 1.5 indicates a width of 1100 mm with a 1.5-inch lower anvil.
Are replacement rollers available?
Original spare parts available with 3–5 business days shipping. Customer support available in Italian.
Is specific training required to use an English wheel?
Yes. Forming with an English wheel requires technique and practice: the tension of the sheet metal, the direction, and the pressure of the passes determine the final shape. An inexperienced operator can create irregular undulations that are difficult to correct. It is advisable to start on scrap material to gain confidence before working on definitive pieces.
