Compare Mechanical and Hydraulic Shearing Machines

Shearing Machine 13, Steel Rolling Plant

Shearing metal is one of the most frequent and crucial activities in the fabrication industry. The importance of being able to shear metal in a fabrication facility is well acknowledged. However, there is disagreement about whether a mechanical or hydraulic approach is more effective. You should find out which shearing machine performs the best if you’re going to invest the money in either a hydraulic or mechanical one.

We can provide you with some information on which approach is better than the other. When buying equipment for your store, this information will help you make an educated and sensible choice.

What distinguishes a mechanical shear from a hydraulic shearing machine?

1. There is a change in the transmission mode. Mechanical shears are mechanical transmissions, and hydraulic shears are hydraulic transmissions.

 2. There are differences in the shearing concept. The mechanical shears are gate type, whereas the hydraulic shears are swing type.

 3. The effect of precision control is distinct. The mechanical shearing machine is controlled manually, while the hydraulic shear is controlled by a computer.

Where does mechanical shear excel? 

Speed:

In full cycle mode, mechanical shears operate more quickly.

Shock Resistant:

Compared to hydraulic cylinders, heavy castings and frames are better at absorbing the snap of the shearing process.

Simplicity:

The easier maintenance and repair processes of mechanical shears result in longer uptime and less downtime.

Noise:

Because mechanical shearing machines do not require continuous hydraulic operation, they are quieter.

Heat:

Mechanical shears operate much more coolly without hydraulics.

Green:

No filter waste, hydraulic oil waste, hydraulic heat (which needs to be cooled), or hydraulic oil waste.

The Advantages of Hydraulic Shearing Machines

In contrast to hydraulic shears, mechanical shears are quick, easy, and environmentally benign. 

Variable Stroke Length:

While hydraulic shears can be programmed to execute short, rapid strokes, which is helpful when shearing material that is only a few inches wide, mechanical shears must complete the full cycle while shearing.

Overload Protection:

A hydraulic shearing machine can prevent the blade from being “locked” with the material since it is shielded by a blowout valve. In essence, a safety valve opens and releases the high-pressure hydraulics when the hydraulics reach the maximum PSI for the shear. This stops the downward force, enabling the ram to be backed off and the oversized/hard block to be removed.

Cost:

The construction of hydraulic shears is intrinsically less expensive.

Conclusion

In shearing, it’s a common misperception that hydraulic shearing machines are “safer.” In a cycled downstroke, a mechanically actuated device can also stop hydraulic shears. The distinction is that, unlike mechanical shears, hydraulic shears can be automatically reversed when stopped. A mechanical or hydraulic shear can be a terrific addition or complement to your fabrication process if it is properly guarded and has light curtains as needed.

A large assortment of hydraulic and mechanical shears is available from Harjot International. Together with our experienced staff, we can help you choose the machine that best suits your requirements and price range. To discuss your shearing or other machinery needs, give us a call right now.

Harjot, Steel Rolling Plant

Harjot International

With over 25 years of experience, Harjot International, based in Punjab, India, has built a strong reputation as a trusted provider of heavy industrial machinery.