Each order for clad is unique, representing the requirements of a custom-engineered end product. Cladding and backing materials, thicknesses, and plate dimensions, as well as other special requirements, must be considered in the manufacturing process.

While actual thickness or combinations of  materials may necessitate the use of alternative plans, the manufacturing of most  roll-bonded clad plates is accomplished by assembling a 4-ply clad "pack", comprised of two "backing steel" slabs and two "cladding" inserts, as shown in Figure 1. The thickness and size of these components are specially designed to produce finished plate with the customer's required parameters.

The assembled pack is then rolled at high temperature and pressure where the thickness is reduced and the backing steel is metallurgically bonded to the cladding, as shown in Figure 2.

The parting compound prevents bonding of one cladding insert to the other, allowing the rolled assembly to be opened, yielding two clad plates, each having the required cladding and backing thickness, as well as being of sufficient width and length for the customer's order, as shown in Figure 3.