Here are the general steps to adjust the cutting angle of a metal shear:
- Preparation: First, turn off and unplug the metal shear to ensure safety. Wear appropriate safety gear such as gloves and safety glasses. Then, check if there is any material residue on the machine and clean it up. Locate the adjustment mechanism of the cutting angle, which is usually described in the machine's manual.
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Measurement and Determination: Use a protractor or angle gauge to measure the current cutting angle. Decide on the desired cutting angle based on the material type and thickness. Generally, thicker materials require a larger cutting angle, while thinner materials need a smaller one.
- Adjustment Operation: For metal shears with a variable rake angle system, switch the machine to adjustment mode. Then, use the angle adjustment buttons (increase or decrease) to modify the angle. Some hydraulic guillotine shears adjust the cutting angle by controlling the oil volume in the cylinders2. Press the corresponding button and hold it for a few seconds until the desired angle is reached.
- Reset and Verification: If you need to reset the cutting angle to its original setting, follow the specific reset procedure in the manual. After the adjustment, perform a test cut with scrap material to check if the cutting angle is appropriate. Make further adjustments if necessary.
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Final Inspection: Ensure that the blades are properly aligned after adjusting the angle to maintain cutting quality and prevent premature wear. Check the entire machine for any loose parts or Abnormal situations before resuming normal operation.