Shearing is a type of metal processing for cutting or trimming steel without the use of heat. Since heat changes the material’s properties, shearing is the preferred method for many applications. Additionally, it produces very little waste, which makes it cost-effective and suitable for high-volume production. Metal shearing is different from die cutting—the former uses two straight blades to cut.

What Are Commonly Sheared Materials?

This metal processing technique is used for creating smaller-sized metal pieces out of larger sheets or stock. It's often the first step in preparing metal sheets for stamping, CNC presses, and other applications. Sheared metals have burred straight edges. The process of shearing can't produce curved edges, fine cuts, or intricate designs on metal pieces. 

Fabricators shear various materials, including stainless steel, iron, aluminum, brass, copper, titanium, zinc, and bronze. However, shearing will not work on exceptionally hard metals, such as tungsten. Metal sheets aren't the only products that can be sheared, as the process can also be applied to steel bars, angled stocks, strips, and plates to cut them to a desired size, length, or width.

What Tool Systems Are Used?

Shearing happens when two external opposing forces push an object from both sides, resulting in its breakage. The technique involves two blades. The upper blade, known as the punch, moves downward to apply shearing force, while the lower blade, also called the die, remains stationary as it holds the workpiece. Forcing both blades to slide against each other causes the metal to fracture and fall off. 

There are several types of tool systems used for shearing, and each depends on the metal workpiece. A typical machine will have a table for holding the material, stops or guides for securing the workpiece, and two steel blades with square edges. Sometimes, the blades may be mounted at an angle to lessen the required shearing force. 

Shearing machines can be operated manually or run electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically. The bow tie or squaring shear is best for metal sheets and plates, while an angle shear handles angled materials. Cutting steel bars or pipes requires the use of a bar shearing tool.

Shearing is one of the many metal processing services American Metal Supply Co. offers. With two conveniently located warehouses in Cincinnati, OH, and Louisville, KY, this leading metal supplier can source all your commercial needs, such as high-quality structural steel, bars, and galvanized sheets. They'll process these according to your requirements in-house or through a trusted network of partners. Request a quote online or call (502) 634-4321 to speak to a team member.