An excavator hydraulic shear is a powerful attachment mounted on an excavator. It cuts through scrap steel, metal structures, and industrial waste. Contractors and recyclers use it to handle heavy demolition tasks. This machine delivers high shear force, fast cycle times, and long service life. It fits different excavator brands and tonnages. If you need a reliable solution for metal cutting, contact YG Machinery for product details and a custom quote.
Technical parameters for YG demolition shears
| Model | YG-620 | YG-1413 | YG-2200 | YG-2977 | YG-4052 |
| Weight kg | 620 | 1413 | 2200 | 2977 | 4052 |
| Max. open size mm | 334 | 540 | 500 | 660 | 801 |
| Width mm | 864 | 1175 | 1370 | 1600 | 1700 |
| Height mm | 1521 | 2050 | 2380 | 2600 | 2700 |
| Effective shear depth mm | 286 | 348 | 486 | 578 | 736 |
| Rotating way | 360° collision | 360° hydraulic | |||
| Working pressure bar | 235 | 300 | 320 | 320 | 320 |
| Bottom shear force T | 81.2 | 138.2 | 171.2 | 330.2 | 387.2 |
| Medium shear force T | 50.2 | 80.2 | 100.2 | 189.2 | 218.2 |
| Tip shear force T | 32.2 | 53.2 | 75.2 | 127.2 | 147.2 |
| Applied excavator weight T | 5-9 | 10-19 | 20-25 | 28-35 | 38-50 |
How does a scrap metal shear work?
The excavator hydraulic shear attaches to the excavator arm through two pin holes, with hydraulic hoses connected to the auxiliary circuit. When the operator activates the pedal or joystick, oil flows into the cylinder, pushing the moving jaw toward the fixed jaw. A 360° rotation mechanism (hydraulic or collision type) lets the shear turn freely, allowing cutting from any angle without moving the whole machine.
Inside the jaw, specially designed blades sit in a high-strength seat that resists bending. Worn blades can be replaced in minutes—no grinding or welding required. The cylinder generates a powerful closing force, applying progressive pressure: the jaw grips the material slowly, then rapidly increases force to shear through rebar, steel plate, or scrap metal.
Key advantages of the excavator hydraulic shear
1. The closed steel plate structure eliminates side twisting
Heavy-duty closed-section steel housing resists torsional forces. Upper and lower jaws stay aligned even when cutting thick plate, reducing uneven blade wear and producing cleaner cuts. More rigid than open-frame designs, even after years of heavy use.
2. The special blade shape improves productivity
Each blade has 4 cutting edges. When one dulls, flip or rotate—no frequent blade purchases. Reduces consumable costs by up to 40%. Made of high-alloy tool steel, HRC 55–58. Blade change takes under 10 minutes, no special tools.
3. The enlarged hydraulic cylinder delivers a strong closing force
Oversized cylinder provides progressive force: soft grip first, then high pressure for the cut. On YG 4052, bottom shear force reaches 387 tons—cuts an 80mm solid steel bar, bundled scrap, or heavy H beam in one bite. Faster cycles, fewer passes.
4. High-grade steel and corrosion-resistant treatment protect the machine from rust
The main structure uses high-tensile wear-resistant steel with anti-corrosion coating. Double-lipped waterproof seals protect rotating joints from mud, dust, and moisture. After 8,000 hours in harsh environments, no pitting or stress cracks—higher resale value and lower total cost.
5. Installation is simple
Align the pin holes with the excavator’s front pin and stick pin. Connect two hydraulic hoses. That is it. You can switch between a bucket and a shear in under 30 minutes. One operator runs both attachments.
Applications for scrap metal shear
- Steel plant dismantling: Old factories have heavy structural beams, pipe racks, and equipment frames. A shear cuts these into manageable pieces for transport. It works faster than a torch and leaves no slag on the cut surface.
- Building demolition: When a concrete building has a steel frame, the excavator’s hydraulic shear can cut through columns and trusses. It also works on rebar inside concrete. After a building falls, the shear processes the tangled rebar into short lengths for the scrap yard.
- Shipbreaking: Old ships have thick hull plates and internal ribs. Cutting them with torches is slow and dangerous due to residual fuel vapors. A demolition shear makes cold cuts, eliminating ignition risk.
- Other uses: Chemical plant cleanup, bridge dismantling, scrap car processing. For each job, the machine delivers consistent performance. It does not overheat like a torch. It does not need electricity like a plasma cutter. Just hydraulic power from the excavator.
Why choose hydraulic shears for an excavator from YG Machinery?
YG Machinery is an integrated manufacturer and trading company. Our excavator hydraulic shear delivers high shear force, 360° rotation (optional), and easy blade replacement. Every unit goes through strict quality checks before shipping, and we offer full after-sales support. The shears have been exported to over 20 countries, including the US, Canada, and Saudi Arabia. Fast shipping is available. Need a reliable attachment? Contact us with your excavator model and material thickness. We will recommend the right model based on your needs and budget, and provide a free quote.
