How to Choose a Hydraulic Shearing Machine
Thickness, length, rake angle, blades and build quality: what to check before you buy a hydraulic shear.
A hydraulic shearing machine is usually the first machine a blank meets, so its accuracy affects everything that follows. Here is what to look at when you buy one, and how to choose a manufacturer.
1. Thickness and material
Shear capacity is quoted for mild steel. Stainless steel is stronger, so capacity falls; on Devraj machines the stainless steel rating is roughly half to four-fifths of the mild steel rating, depending on model. Choose a machine for your thickest regular plate, not a rare exception.
2. Cutting length
Choose a cutting length above your widest sheet. In India, 1250 mm and 1500 mm wide sheets and 2500 mm long sheets are common, so 2500 mm and 3000 mm shears are the most popular sizes. A 4000 mm shear is needed for cutting long plates across their length.
3. Fixed or variable rake angle
The rake angle is the slope of the upper blade. A variable rake angle lets you use a low angle on thin sheet and narrow strips to reduce twist and bow, and a higher angle on thick plate to reduce force. Devraj DHSM shears offer an adjustable rake range of 0.5° to 2° or 3° depending on model.
4. Hold-downs and back gauge
Enough hold-down cylinders with adequate force keep the sheet from moving during the cut. A motorised back gauge with good accuracy speeds up repeat cutting and improves blank consistency.
5. Blades and clearance
Good blade steel and correct heat treatment give long life. Easy blade clearance adjustment matters because the right clearance changes with thickness: too tight wears blades, too loose leaves burrs.
6. Frame and build quality
A stress-relieved, rigid frame keeps the cut square and the blades aligned over years of use. Ask for machine weight; heavier frames are usually stiffer.
Choosing a hydraulic shearing machine manufacturer
- Published, detailed specifications for each model
- Willingness to let you see the machine and test cut your own material
- Clear scope of supply: blades, back gauge, guards, installation
- Availability of spare blades and seals
- Experience with heavy machinery and after-sales support
Devraj DHSM range at a glance
| Capacity (MS nominal / max) | Lengths available |
|---|---|
| 2 / 3.15 mm | 2000, 2500, 3000 mm |
| 3.15 / 4 mm | 1500, 2000, 2500, 3000 mm |
| 4 / 6-8 mm | 1500 to 4000 mm |
| 6 / 8 mm | 1500 to 4000 mm |
| 8 / 10 mm | 1500 to 4000 mm |
| 10 / 13 mm | 1500, 2000, 2500 mm |
| 13 / 16 mm | 2000 to 4000 mm |
| 16 / 20 mm | 2000 to 4000 mm |
| 20 / 25 mm | 2000 to 4000 mm |
Full model data is on the hydraulic shearing machine page.