The phrase “a shear is a shear” does not exactly apply to metal cutting shears. Contrary to popular belief, some shears are different than others. The differences are between the two designs of metal cutting shears, a guillotine and a swing beam.

Pictured: NEW 10′ X 1/2″ STANDARD HYDRAULIC GUILLOTINE SHEAR

A guillotine shear is the design most American manufacturers build. They are typically more expensive, accurate and stronger overall (heavier in weight of machine). A guillotine shear by design has a drive system that insures the upper blade comes straight down through the material from start to finish. This is accomplished through gibs and ways. The blade does not change position in relationship to the material through the cut. Guillotine shears perform well especially for larger capacity machines 1/4” and up. One main feature is a guillotine shears ability to adjust the rake angle (cutting angle of top blade) this is beneficial for variations in material thickness. The thicker the material, the larger the angle should be.

In contrast, a swing beam or rocker arm style shear is a shear in which the swing beam pivots from the side of the end frames and brings the ram down in an arc or swing. This design is most commonly used by Asian and less expensive European manufacturers. A swing beam causes the relationship of the top blade to the work piece to change throughout the cut. One advantage to a swing beam shear is they are typically less than a guillotine shear. The other advantage to a swing beam design is speed in the form of faster strokes per minute. Swing beam shears perform well in thinner material 1/4” and under.

To make sure you select the right shear, contact us here at Worldwide Machine Tool.