Steel cutting machine

Types of steel cutting machines

Steel-cutting machines have different types. Each of these is based on the operation type. The operation can be manual, semi-manual, or automatic.

Some are based on the technique applied during the cutting. The cutting can be shearing, cutting, chiseling, etc. Also, some machines work by changing the shape of the steel. These machines include bending and forging machines.

Steel cutting machines operate by maintaining good blade work. These machines affect blade operations by sharpening, cleaning, or cooling the blades. For this reason, a steel cutting machine is essential in all industrial operations. It helps in all operations from food processing to manufacturing airplanes.

However, there are two major cutting machines that steel cutting tools suppliers sell in bulk. They are manual and electric cutting machines. Their operations and uses are briefly outlined below.

Manual steel cutting machine

A manual cutting machine is a basic cutting tool for metals. People also call it a mechanical shear. It uses manual systems to cut sheet metals. They mostly have blades that slide over one another to cut metal sheets. However, some blades use scissors-like cutting actions.

A manual steel cutting machine is a necessity when making small cuts on the metal sheets. It comes in handy in small-scale operations. In such operations, there is a need to manually control the cut diameters.

Electric steel cutting machine

On the other hand, electric steel cutting machines are essential to large-scale operations. An electric steel cutter boosts productivity. It also reduces labor costs. These factors make electric cutters ideal even for small businesses.

However, businesses should keep in mind that these electric cutters also have high costs. Their costs are associated with maintenance and energy.

Durability and material of steel cutting machines

In large-scale cutting operations, businesses use cutting machines that are high in durability. These machines have blades and parts made from high-quality steel. Often, the blades consist of high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide.

HSS blades are strong and can easily be honed to a sharp edge. These two factors make them ideal for cutting tool applications. It also makes them ideal for heavy-duty operations. Moreover, high-speed steel blades are heat resistant. They, therefore, retain their hardness even when cutting at high RPM.

On the other hand, carbide blades have a higher wear resistance than HSS blades. These blades are also less likely to chip or break. Furthermore, they give cleaner cuts and require fewer changes over time.

Note that electric cutters have blades with cooling technology. This technology improves durability by minimizing heat build-up during cutting. Conversely, mechanical shears do not have this feature. That is why they are suitable for small operations.

Commercial use of steel cutting machines

Industrial steel cutting machines have different commercial uses in businesses. They include cutting pipes, bars, sheets, and bolts. They also cut gears and various automotive parts. Their ability to cut thick or tough materials makes them ideal for heavy-duty operations.

Moreover, electric steel cutting machines are compatible with CNC systems. It, therefore, allows for automated cuts to boost production.

Here are places where steel cutters prove to be most useful:

• Manufacturing plants: they use steel-cutting machines to cut sheets and add them to finished materials.
• Construction sites: all steel works such as cutting beams, bars, and pipes require steel cutting machines.
• Automotive shops: use steel-cutting machines to cut different steel parts to fix clients’ cars.
• Metal fabrication workshops: use electric steel cutting machines to make customized metal products. Examples are brackets, frames, and enclosures.
• Aerospace industry: uses electric steel cutting machines for precise cuts on aircraft components. After all, spaces are crucial to safety and performance.
• shipbuilding companies: they require steel cutting machines to mend the large metal sheets and parts used to build ships.
• Tooling and die shops: use steel cutting machines to create cutting dies and molds. These machines are, therefore, vital for various manufacturing processes.

How to choose steel cutting machines

The following factors should guide buyers when choosing steel cutting machines.

• Steel type: different steel cutting tools work best on certain steel projects. Buyer’s steel should consider the steel used in their business.
• Operation: the best steel cutting tools for a business will depend on the operation. If a business requires making small cuts, it should go for a manual cutting machine. On the flip side, businesses that require bulk cutting should opt for electric cutting machines.
• Costs: buyers should set a budget first before buying any cutter. The budget will help them distinguish between the various cutters they can afford.
• Cuts per minute: buyers should go for cutters with high CPM ratings. Such cutters will manage bulk cutting easily.
• Cutting depth: the cutting depth determines the material thickness the cutter can handle. Buyers should consider materials of varying thickness before purchasing a cutter.
• Material: steel cutting tools are either made of high-speed steel or carbide. Both materials have benefits that make them ideal for large-scale operations. Buyers should choose between the two based on availability.
• Easy to install: it is always advisable to select easy-to-install machinery. Machines with simple and easy tools to handle are better. They save time and reduce frustrations. Moreover, machines with cutting tools that are easy to replace should also be preferred.

Q&A

Q. Can a steel cutting machine cut stone?

A. While some steel cutting tools can cut stone, none of them performs exceptionally. The best tools for cutting stones are diamond blades

Q. What do I need to take care of when maintaining a steel cutting machine?

A. Steel cutting machines require routine cleaning checks, lubrication, and part substitutions.

Q. Do steel cutting machines have any attachments?

A. Yes, some steel cutting machines have attachments. The most common one is the electric motor.

Q. Is there a difference between a steel cutting machine and a metal cutting machine?

A. The major difference between the two is that steel cutting machines specifically cut steel. While metal cutting machines can cut various metals.