How to Use the Metal Plate Shear Force Calculator
When cutting a metal plate on a shearing machine or press, knowing the shear force the equipment needs to handle in advance helps you select the right machine capacity. Shear force equals the sheared cross-sectional area (plate thickness x cut length) times the material's shear strength, which is commonly estimated at about 75-80% of the material's ultimate tensile strength.
This calculator provides reference shear strength values for three common materials: mild steel (A36), stainless steel (304), and aluminum (6061-T6). The 30,000 psi shear strength for 6061-T6 aluminum is a widely published standard reference value, while the mild steel and stainless steel values are commonly cited approximations.
Actual shear strength can vary even within the same material depending on heat treatment and exact specification, so for precise equipment sizing it's best to check the actual tensile strength on the material's mill test report and recalculate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shear force equals the sheared cross-sectional area (thickness x cut length) times the material's shear strength. Shear strength is commonly estimated at about 75-80% of the material's ultimate tensile strength.
These are commonly cited reference values. Actual shear strength varies by heat treatment and exact spec even within the same material, so for precise equipment sizing check the actual tensile strength on the mill test report.