Modern Day Hydraulic Shears

Removing a section of metal by using a high pressure tool to cut through a metal plate is known as shearing. Punching machines, which produce small discs, and blanking machines, that make washers and other small parts, are both examples of shear machining.

Hydraulic shear machines operate differently than ordinary direct tool machines. In ordinary direct tool machining, single or multiple point tools are used to remove the cut metal from the metal sheet or block. The tool contacts the metal repeatedly to obtain the required dimensions. With the hydraulic shear, the cutting edge of the tool is used to remove metal from the plate. The tool uses maximum pressure when tearing the metal from the plate. The metal plate and the tool only come into contact once.

Both hydraulic and mechanical machines have the capabilities to perform shear machining. Hydraulic shears are perfect for when you need to quickly and accurately cut through sheets of metal. Factories with high volume metal fabricating operations use hydraulic shears, especially manufacturing operations requiring high intensity pressure. Modern hydraulic shears require far less maintenance; they are quick, quiet, and capable of continuous operation. Hydraulic shear machines produce equal amounts of pressure but use less space than other mechanical machines.

You do not want the high pressures applied to the metal to cause it to shift, so it must be cut and inserted into hydraulic machines and held very tightly by clamps. In order to make a 90 degree cut, one can use a squaring arm or a back gauge so that a smooth and even cut is made. Grinding can be done to remove any minute burrs that may be formed by the blade edge. The hydraulic shears’ cutting blades and holding clamps leave marks that can be compensated for or removed.

Many models of hydraulic shear machines accommodating a wide range of metal plate sizes are available from a number of manufacturers. The metal can be cut into many different sizes, and any left over pieces could be used to design something else. The machines operate quietly and are discreetly enclosed inside large stand-alone units. Not only do they operate with very little noise, but they are also attractively enclosed inside large stand alone units.

Multiple sets of sharp blades are used to cut the metal into assorted shapes and sizes as per the specifications. Often times, it can be difficult for anyone observing to believe what extremely high pressures are created inside of that attractive compartment in order to cut through the metal. Today's hydraulic shears are designed for over-floor installation; practical and movable, they can be placed wherever they are required in the production line.

Although the blades of the hydraulic shearing machines are located inside, caution should be taken when operating them. The machine blades must be sharp in order to prevent off-cuts and maximize efficiency. Keeping the moving parts well lubricated and clean is extremely important. The machine needs to contain the correct level of hydraulic fluid at all times to avoid damage to it.

About the Author

As a man who has spent the last 20 years in a machine shop, Michael Headingten is the best resource for information on metal fabricating machinery and plate bending rolls. From plate rolls to press brakes, he has used them all and knows all of the find points of their production.

Found On: FACTSvault.com

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