Shearing

Shearing is a fundamental manufacturing process within sheet metal fabrication, serving as a primary method for cutting and shaping flat metal sheets. This process involves the use of shearing machines equipped with sharp blades, where the upper blade descends against the lower blade to cut through the sheet material. Shearing is particularly effective for straight-line cuts and is well-suited for producing components with clean, precise edges.

The simplicity and speed of shearing make it an efficient technique for quickly transforming large sheets of metal into smaller, more manageable pieces. It is commonly used for cutting blanks, which are then further processed through additional forming or shaping operations. The accuracy of shearing machines allows for the creation of components with tight tolerances, contributing to the overall precision of sheet metal fabrication.

While shearing is highly efficient for straight cuts, it may not be suitable for complex shapes or intricate patterns, where other cutting methods like laser cutting or waterjet cutting might be more applicable. Nevertheless, in the realm of sheet metal fabrication, shearing remains a fundamental and widely used technique due to its speed, accuracy, and suitability for high-volume production scenarios.

References

ANSI B11.4-2003 (R2020) Safety Requirements For Shears
This standard applies to those mechanically, hydraulically, hydro-mechanically or pneumatically powered shears used to cut material by shearing, and which utilize a fixed blade(s) and non-rotary moving blade(s).

Cincinnati Shear Capacities Brochure

Right Angle Shearing

Right angle shearing is a specialized form of shearing in sheet metal fabrication that focuses on creating precise right-angle cuts or bends in the material. This process is particularly valuable for producing components with distinct corners and edges, contributing to the overall geometry and functionality of the fabricated part. Right angle shearing is often employed...

Slitting (Sheet Metal Process)

Slitting (Sheet Metal Process)
Slitting is a crucial process in sheet metal fabrication, specifically applied to sheet metal coils. This technique involves cutting a wide coil of sheet metal into narrower strips, contributing to efficient material utilization and the production of multiple narrower coils or sheets. Slitting is especially prevalent in industries requiring precision and versatility, such as automotive,...

Right Angle Shearing

Right angle shearing is a specialized form of shearing in sheet metal fabrication that focuses on creating...
Slitting (Sheet Metal Process)

Slitting (Sheet Metal Process)

Slitting is a crucial process in sheet metal fabrication, specifically applied to sheet metal coils....