Specsheet
Blade gap checking is a key step in safe, clean cutting on any sheet shear. If the gap is wrong, sheet edges will burr or blades can crack.
By Mr Thabo Mokoena, MD, Equipment
Blade gap is the distance between the top and bottom blades of your sheet shear. If the gap is too tight, the blades may bind or crack on thick stock. If it is too wide, thin sheets will curl, burr or even jam in the machine. Wrong gap settings are the main reason for poor cut quality, short blade life and operator frustration.
Every metal gauge needs its own blade gap setting. The aim is to shear the sheet cleanly, not tear or squash the edge. If your team cuts mild steel one hour and aluminium the next, you need to check and adjust the gap before each batch. This step is part of safe working, as required by the OHS Act.
Always lock out the machine and use gloves. Refer to your shear’s manual for the recommended blade gap per sheet thickness.
A simple feeler gauge or slip of the same gauge metal can be used to check the gap along the full blade length. Do not trust a setting dial without checking physically.
If you are unsure about your shear’s gap adjustment, or need to check the blade condition, send us a message using our contact form. Mention your machine brand, model and typical sheet thickness worked.
We can organise a site visit, offer advice on blade grinding, or show you how to check and set the gap in person. Our Germiston team can demonstrate the process on our Feature Sheet Shear for any staff who need practical training.
Often, we find workshops running with a one-size-fits-all blade gap. This leads to thick burrs on thin sheet, or even blade chipping on plate. Never skip the gap check when changing stock thickness.
Another mistake is ignoring swarf or debris on the blade faces. Even a thin film of dust or a stray offcut will throw out the gap setting. Also, always check both ends and the middle; blades or beds can wear unevenly and need to be set true along their whole length.
Continue with equipment, bays, or use our contact form.
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