Abstract: The seaming machine has two pairs of dies which are longitudinally spaced. The dies are mounted from a frame for pivoting movement about parallel axes equally spaced on opposite sides of the longitudinal center line of the machine. A motor supported by the frame drives an eccentric and associated linkage which cause the dies to swing or oscillate laterally about said axes. The machine includes rollers adapting the machine for movement along metal roof panels of the type having their longitudinal edges configured for defining a stand rib seam. A sealing cap fits over the adjoining edges of the roof panels which form the standing rib. As the machine moves astride the cap, the dies engage and deform the sealing cap and also interlock the roof panels.

Abstract: The seam joins metal roofing panels of the standing rib type with a water-tight seal. The seam utilizes an integral sealing cap having distal flanges, reentrant flanges and a web which is planar prior to bending. The sealing cap encloses a standing rib joint defined by upstanding flanges each having a plurality of tabs extending therefrom. The web of the cap and the tabs are bent into inverted U-shaped configurations. The tabs are captivated between the reentrant flanges and the bent over web thereby locking the panels together. Sealant carried by the distal flanges is compressed between the same and the upstanding flanges to form a water-tight seal. A method for forming the seam is also provided.