Rafter Equipment Corporation is one of North America’s longest-standing names in metal forming machinery. Originally founded in 1917 as the Rafter Machine Company in Belleville, New Jersey, the company built its reputation as a trusted roll forming machine builder, supplying over 850 machines to more than 450 customers around the world.

In 1988, three former Yoder Manufacturing employees — Walter Krenz, Paul Rohde, and John “Jack” Brandli—acquired the company and relocated it to Cleveland, Ohio. With that move came a new name: Rafter Equipment Corporation. By 1992, growing demand prompted another move to a larger facility in Strongsville, Ohio, where the company continues to operate today.

Under this leadership, Rafter evolved into a premier designer and manufacturer of tube and pipe mill systems, roll formers, and mill components — recognized for precision engineering, rugged performance, and hands-on service. We remain one of the few manufacturers still building our equipment entirely in the USA, giving us full control over design, fabrication, and quality from start to finish.

Under this leadership, Rafter evolved into a premier designer and manufacturer of tube and pipe mill systems, roll formers, and mill components — recognized for precision engineering, rugged performance, and hands-on service. We remain one of the few manufacturers still building our equipment entirely in the USA, giving us full control over design, fabrication, and quality from start to finish.

Today, as part of the Ridgecrest Ventures family of brands, we continue to lead with innovation, reliability, and a personal commitment to helping our customers build what’s next.