Power shearing machine

Market Dynamics of Power Shearing Machines

Market Overview: The global market for shearing machines, including power shearing machines, was estimated at $1.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $1.3 billion by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.5%, according to Global Industry Analysts, Inc. This growth trajectory is particularly notable in the Bench Shears segment, expected to reach $597.2 million by 2030 with a CAGR of 2.9%. The U.S. market, valued at approximately $294.4 million in 2023, is also a significant contributor, while China is anticipated to grow at a robust 4.5% CAGR, reaching $247.7 million by 2030. The demand for power shearing machines is driven by the increasing need for precision cutting in various sectors, including automotive and construction, as manufacturers seek to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Industry Insights: Consumer behavior is shifting towards advanced machinery that offers enhanced functionality and adaptability. This trend is evident as businesses increasingly prioritize automation and smart technology in their operations. The integration of computer numerical control (CNC) technology in power shearing machines is enhancing productivity and precision, making them essential in modern manufacturing environments. Major players in the market are focusing on innovation and product diversification to meet the evolving demands of end-users. Furthermore, the market is influenced by regulatory standards emphasizing safety and efficiency, which are prompting manufacturers to upgrade their equipment. Overall, the power shearing machine market is poised for steady growth, driven by technological advancements and increasing industrial applications.

Types of power shearing machines

A power shearing machine is a kind of shearing machine that cuts materials like plates and bars. Its operating principle involves applying shear stress to overcome resistance. It is also known as the electric shearing machine or electric shear cutter. Many power shearing machines offer cut lengths of about 1,500 mm to 3,000 mm.

Generally, the power shearing machines can be classified into the following types based on their structure and features:

• Hydraulic power shearing machine: It is a shearing machine driven by hydraulic systems. The driving force in hydraulic power shearing machines comes from hydraulic cylinders connected to a power source. This generates greater cutting forces. As a result, thicker plates can be cut with more precision and ease.
• Pneumatic power shearing machine: Unlike hydraulic power shearing machines, a pneumatic power shearing machine uses compressed air as its driving force. This comprises an air compressor and piston-cylinder systems. Because of this, the cutting forces in pneumatic power shearing machines are lower than those in hydraulic ones. Consequently, they cut thinner materials at higher speeds. Power shearing machines borrowed from the pneumatic industry are mostly used in assembly lines where speed is paramount.
• Mechanical power shearing machine: A mechanical power shearing machine uses a motor to drive a flywheel. The flywheel then drives the blades to shear the metals. The force and torque generated by the motor and flywheel determine the cutting power. Such shearing machines cut light and medium sheets of metals, so operators don’t have to apply a lot of force. Many of them have safety features like blade guards and emergency stop buttons to prevent accidents.
• Laser power shearing machine: It is a power shearing machine that employs laser beams to cut through different kinds of materials like metals, plastics, wood, etc. Laser beams offer precise cuts and can make intricate designs that are difficult to achieve with other shearing methods. Also, sometimes, no blades are involved in the shearing process. The use of laser technology increases cutting precision and provides a smoother cut finish. This reduces the need for further post-processing.

Specification and Maintenance of Power Shearing Machines

• Capacity and Size:

  The cutting capacity and machine size are commonly associated with the cutting length as well as the thickness of the workpieces. For instance, a shearing machine may have the capacity to cut through a thickness of 6mm with a cutting length of 2000mm. Such capacities allow the shearing machines to cut thicker metal sheets, plates, and bars precisely.

• Cutting Force and Power:

  The cutting force and power specify the overall power and energy requirements of a power shearing machine for cutting operations. Measured in kilowatts (kW), the motor power indicates the machine's power source. For instance, a 5-7 kW shearing machine may be used to cut thinner sheets, while machines with 11-15 kW motor power may be used for thicker sheets or plates.

• Blades:

  A power shearing machine uses sharp-cutting blades for cutting sheets and plates. The blade's length is the parts that cut the sheets effectively and longer to accommodate wider sheets. Other measurements for the blades are the widths and thicknesses, which determine the blade's cutting capabilities and stability. A typical blade length for a plate shearing machine could be 2000mm, with a width and thickness of 60mm and 20mm, respectively. The blades may be made of hardened steel or high-speed steel that can be used to cut different kinds of sheets and plates precisely and cleanly.

• Cutting Thickness:

  Power shearing machines have the capacity to cut through sheets and plates of varying thicknesses based on the design and type. A guillotine shearing machine can usually cut thicknesses of up to 25mm for sheets and plates made of mild steel. Larger machines with more power can cut through even thicker plates and sheets.

• Cutting Accuracy:

  A power shearing machine cuts metal sheets, plates, and bars with precision. Depending on the machine type, the cutting accuracy may differ. However, the tolerance level is usually micro millimeter or millimeter.

Power shearing machines require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and safety. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Frequent cleaning of the machine surfaces and components is manageable with a brush, clean cloth, and soft detergent. Shearing machines with cutting fluids should be cleaned to prevent residue buildup, which may damage the machine parts.
• Worn and damaged blades reduce the cutting accuracy and performance of a power shearing machine. Therefore, they should be checked regularly for damage or unusual signs. If the blades show signs of wearing, they need to be replaced immediately.
• The overall performance of a power shearing machine depends on the lubrication of its moving parts. Lubricating oil may be used for both electric and hydraulic machines, and regular lubrication keeps the machine parts moving smoothly.
• The machine should be checked for any loose, worn, or damaged parts; all fastenings should be checked and tightened to ensure operational safety.
• Because power shearing machines are powered by electricity and hydraulic systems, their hoses and cables should be checked regularly to ensure there is no damage that may hinder performance.

Applications of a power shearing machine

The power shearing machine is used in many industries to cut different materials. Its usefulness is vast because it can cut many materials, such as plastics, metals, and composites. Below are some key applications:

• Metal fabrication shops

  The shearing machine is ideal for cutting metal sheets in many thicknesses with straight lines. It creates accurate cuts without distorting the metal. The machine operation is easy for staff to learn quickly and use it effectively with different types of metals.

• Automotive industry

  Workers use the power shearing machine to cut automotive parts from metal sheets. It produces quick and accurate cuts to help assemble different car models.

• Production of appliances and cabinets

  Shearing machines cut metals used to make appliances and cabinets. The machine cuts precisely to create parts for fridges, microwaves, and cabinets. The quality of the cuts improves the final product.

• Construction industry

  In the construction industry, the shearing machine cuts various building materials like metal profiles and sheets. It makes accurate cuts to create structural components like frames, beams, and panels.

• Signage and Graphics

  Power shearing machines cut signage letters and graphics precisely from different materials. It shapes strong and long-lasting signage used indoors or outside.

• Electronics industry

  In the electronics industry, shearing machines cut electronic device substrates and packaging precisely. The accuracy is good enough for circuit boards and other electronic components.

How to choose a power shearing machine

When it comes to selecting a hydraulic shearing power machine, one must proceed cautiously, as this equipment will always be an integral part of the business to create a wide range of different products from metal sheets. There are a few things to note to ensure that the chosen machine is, in fact, effectively chosen.

• Shearing machine application needs

  By far, the most essential thing to note is the requirement of the business. Ask what exactly is being required and what sort of capacity the business can afford. This is crucial because it will help determine which kind of hydraulic shear will suit the industrial-level demands, such as how big of a capacity sheet the machine can effortlessly cut to produce all the necessary products.

• Machine capability and features

  When choosing the machine after knowing the application needs, compare different options according to their features and capabilities. Ensure that the machine that has been selected matches the specifications of the previous requirement and can fulfill business needs flawlessly with no issues that cannot be resolved internally.

• Construction of the machine

  Consider the power shears machine construction. This will include all critical components, such as important electrical items and the frames and cutting blades made with high-grade steel. The machine must be constructed to ensure durability with low maintenance cost so that it can be used for many years to come without any major repairs.

• Safety features

  Although industrial-strength safety precautions are taken to ensure employee safety, it nonetheless always helps to provide an extra layer of security by getting a hydraulic power shearing machine with all the safety features.

• Ease of operation

  It would help if one could also consider the machine's operating procedure. Is it manual, automatic, or semi-automatic? What is the skill set of the employees, and will they be able to operate the machine without any trouble? These are important questions to consider before making the final selection.

Q&A

Q: How to use an electric shearing machine?

A: Understand the controls first. Then, set the material straight on the bed and adjust the blade gap per the material thickness. Clamp the sheet but leave some space at the edge to avoid jamming. After that, switch on the machine and monitor the shearing process. Switch off the machine after shearing is complete.

Q: What is the difference between a power shearing machine and a power guillotine shear?

A: The power shearing machine uses a straight blade to slice through the material, while a power guillotine shear has a blade like a guillotine that drops down to cut in a vertical motion. The two may also employ different cutting techniques and configurations depending on the application.

Q: What is the benefit of a CNC shearing machine?

A: A CNC machine offers automated control for increased precision, repeatability, and efficiency. It has an advanced computer numerical control system that allows it to handle complex cutting tasks more easily than an ordinary power shearing machine.

Q: How safe are electric shearing machines?

A: Shearing machines are safe. They have safety guards and emergency stop buttons to prevent accidents. Users must be trained and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) during use. They must also avoid placing their hands near the cutting blades.