Electric shears for metal - the best assistant for a tinsmith

Design features

In appearance, electric scissors are similar to a regular grinder.
The design of electric scissors includes the following elements:

• Housing with an electric motor inside . It has an elongated shape, thanks to which it fits well in the palm. On models with a heavy, powerful motor, an additional handle is placed on the body for convenience. Regardless of the type and cost of the tool, the body is always made of impact-resistant plastic.
• Multi-stage gearbox . Responsible for transforming the rotational movement of the motor into the reciprocating movement of the cutting head. Made of metal.
• Work node . Contains the knives or die and punch needed to cut metal.
• Metal shield . Protects the operator's hand from contact with the sharp edge of the workpiece.
• Electrical cord for supplying power to the instrument.

The way of working with electric scissors is no different from working with conventional ones. The operator smoothly guides the cutting head along the intended cutting line from the starting point to the ending point. The main rule of work: the speed of hand movement must correspond to the speed of cutting metal.

Expert opinion

Kulikov Vladimir Sergeevich

The accuracy and precision of cutting on any electric scissors depends solely on the experience and skill of the operator.

PIT PDJ 250-C PRO

Main characteristics:

• Tool type - sheet (cut);
• Power - 500 W;
• The number of strokes at idle speed is 2600 strokes/min;
• Weight - 2.95 kg.

Type of scissors and design. Sheet-type electric shears powered by a 220-volt network and having a cylindrical shape. The housing is made of impact-resistant plastic, and the gear housing is made of metal. The product weighs 2.95 kg. The shape of the cutting unit ensures that parts of the cut sheet are moved apart to the sides, eliminating the possibility of jamming. The knives are easily replaced with new ones using a hex key.

Working head PIT PDJ 250-C PRO.

Functionality and purpose. The tool is designed for straight and shaped cutting of flat metal sheets or corrugated sheets up to 2.5 mm thick. The 500 W motor is effectively cooled by forced air flows, which facilitates long-term continuous operation under load. The intensity of the knife movement is 2600 vibrations per minute.

Ease of use. The body, which acts as a handle, has a flange that prevents slipping. The slide-type starting switch is fixed in both positions, without forcing the master to waste effort and attention on holding it while working. A special shield protects your hands from damage. The model is equipped with spare brushes that can be replaced without contacting a service center.

Pros of PIT PDJ 250-C PRO

1. Reliable design.
2. High performance.
3. Ease of use.
4. Good overview of the cutting area.
5. Low price.

Cons of PIT PDJ 250-C PRO

1. Tangible weight.
2. Not everyone likes the position of the start button on the side of the tool.

Advantages of electric metal shears

Power tools provide the tinsmith with several advantages:

• Saving physical effort - no effort is required to cut metal, the process is automated.
• Possibility of cutting thick workpieces (up to 5 mm), as well as composite and polymer materials.
• High labor productivity – up to 3-5 meters per minute.

• Ease of working with profiled sheets - corrugated sheets, metal tiles, as well as ventilation ducts.
• Cut according to a template, radial cut, arbitrary cutting configuration.
• Minimal risk of injury.

Advantages of electric scissors

If we compare manual scissors with their electrically powered counterparts, the latter will be preferable for a number of reasons:

Despite all the advantages, even such modern technology is not without its drawbacks. Fortunately, there are few of them. Read more about the types of electrical devices for cutting metal parts below.

Varieties

Based on the principle of the cutting mechanism, the following types of electric scissors are distinguished:

Leafy

The working unit of sheet metal shears is designed by analogy with the working unit of household shears: two knives, one of which is rigidly fixed to a support, and the other has free movement. The product falls into the gap and breaks under the pressure of the upper knife. The size of the gap can be adjusted by adjusting the scissors to work with workpieces of different thicknesses. Ideal for rough cutting of a dimensional product at its location (for example, for dismantling metal structures).

Splined

Just like sheet ones, they have two knives:

The top one is static, U-shaped with two chamfers.

The lower one is movable, fitting into the groove of the upper one.

As the lower knife moves, a strip 3-5 mm wide is extruded from the metal blank. In this case, the cut edge is perfectly smooth, without burrs. Slotted shears are most popular among ventilation workers, who use them for cutting pipes and ducts.

Nibblers

Nibblers are similar in principle to a punching press, which is why they are also often called nibblers.
The main elements of their cutting head are:

• Matrix . A static part in the shape of a circle or square (a circle is used for thin-sheet workpieces up to 3 mm thick, a square for thicker ones).
• Punch . A movable punch made in the shape of a matrix. When the motor starts, the punch performs a back-and-forth motion, cutting out a continuous chain of holes in the workpiece, forming a cut line.

Nibblers are indispensable in car repair, roofing and ventilation work. They are perfect for cutting profile workpieces and making radial cuts.

Electric scissors

Electric shears are used for working with metal - cutting thin sheets, fittings, etc. They are used in many construction works: assembling metal structures, installing ventilation, laying pipes.
This tool, depending on the model, can perform straight cuts, shaped cuts, angled cuts, and cut holes. When working, you get a clean, even cut, there are some thin chips or none at all, which allows you to save material. There are several types belonging to the category “Electric metal shears”. They have different purposes, structures and operating principles. Electric sheet shears. One of their two blades is movable. The design has a rigid fastening in the form of a horseshoe. The electric drive is responsible for the accuracy and speed of cutting. Sheet shears can cut wire and steel "shells" (rebates). Variations of this variety have four sharpened edges. Thanks to this, the service life is increased; if the blade becomes dull, it can be turned over. You need to start cutting with such a knife from the edge. It is recommended to use scissors at high speed to avoid uneven cuts. The disadvantage of this type of scissors is that it is inconvenient to make curved cuts.

Electric nibblers. They are also electric cutting shears. The principle of operation and structure are the same as that of a conventional hole punch. The blade inside the mechanism moves and cuts pieces from the sheet of metal. Electric punching shears have a metal penetration depth of up to 3.5 mm. Since the metal shears are electric cutting shears, they can work on any part of the sheet. But in order to start work, you need to make a hole in the metal, which will become the starting point for the work. Electric metal cutting shears successfully perform curved cuts, but it is difficult to cut straight with them.

Slotted scissors. They have two blades in their design. The first blade is U-shaped and is motionless. The second moves from below. The output is a metal serpentine - a thin strip that is folded upward and cut off at the end. The edges of the cut do not require grinding, as the cut is perfect. Cutting can be started even at a hard-to-reach point in the structure. Therefore, they can be used in both finishing and installation practice. The cutting depth of this type of scissors is only 1.6 mm.

Rebar shears. The electric shears, specially designed for cutting reinforcement, move towards each other under the influence of hydraulics. The blades come together until the very end, until the moment when the reinforcement breaks.

Electric guillotine shears. Guillotine shears have different operating mechanisms. Their design includes a work table, a supporting platform, an electric motor and knives that begin to move when turned on. Electric models are intended for use in industrial enterprises, both small and very large. Only make straight cuts.

Also, in addition to electric scissors for cutting metal, there are electric scissors for other purposes. For example, scissors for trimming green plantings. Metal blades or fishing line here are elements of the cutting structure. These tools can be powered by battery or mains power. Scissors with fishing line are intended for grass, and with blades - for shrubs. The power of scissors is determined by the distance between the blades: shorter - more powerful.

Key parameters when choosing electric shears

Power. This value determines the performance of the tool and the thickness of the material it can handle. Power varies from 260 to 1050 W. more productive options can cut thick, dense metals and work intensively. Low-power models are suitable for infrequent household work cutting thin material (metal or plastic). Also, power indicators affect the weight and price of the unit - the higher it is, the greater the mass and the higher the cost.

Cut thickness. This characteristic determines the thickness of the material that scissors can cut (1-6 mm). It is important to select the right tool, since a discrepancy between the values ​​will lead to increased load on the mechanisms and ineffective work: lack of cutting or damage to the product. Small thickness provides a thinner and more accurate cut.

Cutting radius. The minimum value characterizes the smallest diameter that the knife can outline in the material. As a rule, this value ranges from 3 to 150 mm; models with a minimum range are able to create small holes and make curly cuts neatly and cleanly.

Criterias of choice

When purchasing electric scissors, you need to pay attention to many different factors:

1. Power. Varies in the range of 300-650 W. A powerful tool is always better, because... it allows you to make a deeper cut. But it must be taken into account that an increase in the power characteristics of the motor is accompanied by a loss of maneuverability.
2. Knife stroke frequency. The higher this indicator, the more accurate the cut. However, with thick workpieces it is preferable to work at a low speed, so the best option would be a tool with a function for adjusting the speed of the knife.
3. Maximum metal thickness. Varies from 0.3 to 16 mm. When assessing this parameter, you should also take into account what material the scissors are intended for: soft or hard steel, aluminum, composite, etc.
4. Material of cutting elements. Most cutters are made from chrome-molybdenum and chrome-vanadium alloy, but the most durable blades are those made from chrome-nickel or high-carbon steel.
5. Maneuverability. It is inversely proportional to the turning radius of the scissors: the smaller the radius, the higher the maneuverability.
6. Ergonomics. The tool should be comfortable to hold with one hand. However, for processing thick metal, an additional removable handle will not be superfluous.
7. Launch node. The operating mode lock button must be located in an accessible place so that it can be pressed by the finger of the operating hand.
8. Power source: Built-in battery. The best option for working on the roof and in hard-to-reach places. In addition to ease of use, the advantage of such devices is that there is no risk of damage to the cord. The only but significant drawback of such devices is low power (maximum workpiece thickness is 1.5-2.0 mm, recharging is required every 50-70 meters).
9. Mains powered. They allow you to operate with a workpiece on a workbench without thinking about charging and limiting productivity.

Bison ZNL-500

Main characteristics:

• Tool type - sheet (cut);
• Power - 500 W;
• The number of strokes at idle speed is 1800 strokes/min;
• Minimum cutting radius - 40 mm;
• Weight - 2.5 kg.

Type of scissors and design. Electric sheet shears of a domestic brand. They have a durable body made of metal and high-quality plastic. The model is equipped with a good 500 W motor, so it weighs 2.5 kg. The cutting unit is equipped with two tetrahedral knives made of hard alloy. They can be adjusted and replaced using a set of hex keys included in the kit.

Working head Zubr ZNL-500.

Functionality and purpose. The tool produces high-quality straight cuts on sheet metal up to 2.5 mm thick and can follow an arc with a radius of at least 40 mm. The upper knife moves at 1800 oscillations per minute to ensure a smooth edge at high cutting speeds. An effective engine cooling system prevents overheating even during intensive use.

Ease of use. The model has a narrow body that is comfortable to hold with one or two hands. The start switch is located in a niche, which eliminates the possibility of accidental pressing. The metal visor protects the operator from being cut by sharp cutting edges. The manufacturer has taken care of a spare set of electric motor brushes that you can replace yourself. The entire set is sold in a plastic case, designed for neat storage and transportation of the tool.

Pros of Zubr ZNL-500

1. Simple and reliable design.
2. Durable knives.
3. High cutting speed.
4. Good review.
5. Acceptable price.

Cons Bison ZNL-500

1. The gearbox is heating up.
2. Questionable ergonomics of the start button position.

Popular models

Experts identify several models of electric scissors that satisfy the maximum number of selection criteria:

Makita JN1601

Makita JN 1601 nibblers are equipped with a 550 W motor with an operating frequency of up to 2200 rpm. This is quite enough for high-quality cross-cutting of metal tiles or roofing corrugated sheets.

Advantages:

• The cartridge rotates 360*.
• Steel cutting depth up to 1.6 mm.
• Cuts easily and effortlessly.

Flaws:

• Leave a slightly rough cut.

Bosch GSC 75-16

Professional sheet shears with a power of 750 W. Copes with steel and aluminum up to 2 mm thick. Ideal for cutting smooth sheets and low-wave profiled sheets. They cut smoothly, without burrs or chips.

Advantages:

• Relatively light weight - 1.7 kg.
• Quiet sound of the engine.
• Convenient fastener.

Flaws:

• The quality of the cut greatly depends on the setting of the gap between the cutting edges.
• They don't like rusty steel.

Fein BLK 5.0

Professional nibblers from a German manufacturer. The 1200 W motor allows you to easily cut high-strength steel up to 2.5 mm thick and regular steel up to 5 mm thick. Speed ​​– 750 rpm.

Advantages:

• Durable die and punch.
• Extra handle included.
• 5 meter cable.

Flaws:

• Weight – 3.8 kg.
• High price.

Bosch GSC 12V - 13

Bosch cordless sheet metal shears are designed for working with thin sheet steel (0.6-1.3 mm). Weighing 1.4 kg, they have excellent mobility. The brushed motor provides an idle speed of up to 3600 rpm.

Pros:

• Battery overload protection systems.
• System to protect the device from damage when dropped.
• Ease of use.

Minuses:

• They require physical strength and concentration from the operator; with a weak grip they slip out of the hand.

MAKITA DJN161

Makita cordless nibblers allow you to manipulate in hard-to-reach places when installing roofs and facades. The device has an 18 V lithium-ion battery and an electric motor that develops up to 1900 rpm. The maximum cutting depth is 2.5 mm.

Advantages:

• Quiet operation.
• Ergonomic handle.
• Compact sizes.
• Battery charge indicator on the case.

No deficiencies identified.

Makita JN 3200

Nibbler type scissors. Allows cutting steel up to 3.2 mm thick. The 660 W engine produces up to 1300 rpm.

Pros:

• Handle holder located above the main body.
• It is convenient to change the brushes (just unscrew the special nut).
• Perfect straight cut.
• Double insulated power cable.

Minuses:

• It makes a lot of noise when working.
• It is difficult to unfold when making a figured cut.

TITANIUM PPN55-16

The best cheap nibblers. Equipped with a 550 W motor that spins up to 2000 rpm. Capable of processing metal up to 2.5 mm thick.

Pros:

• Affordable price.

Minuses:

• Chinese assembly of low quality.
• Under high loads, the cutter quickly fails.

Makita JN3201J

Main characteristics:

• Tool type - sheet (cut);
• Power - 710 W;
• The number of strokes at idle speed is 1300 strokes/min;
• Minimum cutting radius - 120 mm;
• Weight - 3.4 kg.

Type of scissors and design. Weighing 3.4kg, these nibblers are equipped with a powerful 710W motor. The manufacturer has made this model more compact in length by increasing the thickness of the body, so a special D-shaped handle is provided for gripping. The design of the working head allows for quick replacement of the matrix and punch. Transverse notches make it easier to determine sheet thickness before cutting, which reduces the risk of mechanism failure.

Working head Makita JN3201J.

Functionality and purpose. The tool is suitable for straight and shaped cutting of sheet metal up to 3.5 mm thick. The turning radius starts from 120 mm. Movement frequency is 1300 cycles per minute.

Ease of use. For a secure grip, the handle is equipped with embossed rubber pads. The start key has an on-state lock. You can replace the motor brushes yourself without disassembling the tool body.

Pros of Makita JN3201J

1. Great power.
2. Smooth ride.
3. Reliable materials.
4. Easy maintenance.
5. Minimum waste.
6. Case for storage and carrying.

Cons Makita JN3201J

1. High price.
2. Considerable weight.

Safety precautions

The metal being processed has a thin edge that can easily cause injury. In addition, notching and slotting shears produce sharp shavings during operation, which can get into your eyes.

Therefore, in order to avoid injuries and injuries, when working with electric scissors, you should follow safety precautions:

• Before turning on, check the reliability of fastening of the cutters, inspect the working unit and power cable for cracks.
• Manipulate with protective gloves and goggles.

• During operation, do not touch the gearbox to avoid getting burned.
• It is forbidden to touch a cut of metal with bare hands, especially if it is formed with sheet-type scissors - in this case, the edges of the metal are flattened and become razor-sharp.

Safety precautions are an important aspect when working with electric scissors; do not neglect them under any circumstances!

Characteristics

The most important parameter is the technology underlying the tool. The most primitive are flat sheet shears - their difference from standard manual modifications lies solely in the use of an electric drive. Electric metal nibblers have become quite popular - reviews of them indicate high precision and accuracy of surface processing, as well as the possibility of using them when working with complex parts.

If you need a device that will effectively cope with straight cuts, you should purchase relatively inexpensive slotted electric metal shears. They are also based on a flat cutting profile, but its upper fixed part is supplemented with a special clamping device, which allows for the required accuracy and productivity. The only drawback is the low efficiency when creating complex shapes.

If you are interested in cutting electric shears for metal, the price of which is low, you should pay attention to the power, which determines the permissible cutting characteristics. The most important parameters are metric dimensions such as the depth and width of the cut of the metal part. At the same time, it is always worth clarifying for which material the indicators are given - large manufacturers conduct tests on high-strength grades of steel, while lesser-known companies can test scissors on soft metal that can be easily cut. In addition, look at the speed of movement of the working element - it determines the accuracy of the cut, as well as the productivity of metal scissors.

There are currently automated shears on the market that can use a variety of power sources. Electric models remain the most popular, but high-performance units can also be equipped with a pneumatic drive. In addition, there are special mechanical attachments for cutting metal, which are connected to a drill or screwdriver.

By opening the catalog of the Enkor-24 website, you can choose the metal scissors that are most suitable for you and have the appropriate characteristics. Products of various price categories will be available to your attention, including those produced under the most famous brands in the world.

Advice from professionals

Following the recommendations of professionals will help you get a beautiful and even cut:

• The tool must be in a perpendicular position to the workpiece. Deflection of the cutter in any direction will lead to the appearance of nicks and herringbone.
• To speed up the work, the metal sheet can be lubricated with machine oil.
• The gap between the blades of the sheet shears must be adjusted correctly using special screws. The thicker the workpiece, the larger the gap should be.

A high-quality tool does not vibrate. The appearance of vibration may indicate either a breakdown or a discrepancy between the thickness of the workpiece and the capabilities of the machine.

Care instructions

In order for the scissors to last a long time and not cause trouble during operation, you need to devote time to their maintenance:

1. Make sure that the cutter always remains sharp and replace the blades in a timely manner. This will protect the motor from overloads.
2. Work intermittently. Ideally, for every 10-15 minutes of work there should be 5 minutes of rest.
3. Do not work in damp and dusty conditions, so as not to cause a short circuit or clogging of the ventilation holes on the device body.
4. Clean the cutting unit and ventilation grilles periodically.

What kind of electric scissors do you use?

SheetSlotted

conclusions

Electric scissors can save their owner a lot of effort and time.

Sheet shears are the simplest and most reliable, but limited in functionality.

Nibbler and spline tools are best suited for making radial cuts and working with profile workpieces.

For periodic use at home, a cheap tool like TITAN PPN55-16 will be sufficient.

For professional work with thick metal, the Fein BLK 5.0 nibblers are best suited