Meeting the needs of metal recyclers and industrial professionals
When your facility deals with tough metal waste—whether from demolition sites, manufacturing off‑cuts or scrapped vehicles—reliable cutting equipment isn’t optional; it’s essential for safety and productivity. Alligator shears (often called crocodile shears because of their hinged jaws) provide exceptional cutting force and durability for metal recycling and demolition. Jiangsu Huanhong Hydraulic’s alligator shear lineup is designed to slice through steel billets, aluminum profiles and even bulky scrap cars. Modern hydraulic alligator shear machines are easy to operate, compact and energy efficient, making them ideal for recycling plants, metal fabrication shops, scrap yards and industrial workshops. This page introduces our range of alligator shears for sale, highlights their value for metal recyclers and industrial users, and offers guidance on choosing the right model.
What is an alligator shear machine?
An alligator shear is a type of cold‑shear machine with a hinged blade reminiscent of an alligator’s mouth. Powered by a hydraulic system, it uses tremendous force to cut through scrap metal in a cold state without melting or warping the material. Jiangsu Huanhong’s shears can reduce bulky pieces of metal into manageable sizes, a critical step before shredding or smelting. For example, the Q43‑100 shear uses hydraulic drive power that delivers low noise, small inertia and easy operation. Its compact footprint and light weight make it suitable for small recycling stations, and because it is moveable, you can relocate it between different work sites to enhance flexibility.
The role of hydraulics
Hydraulic alligator shears use pressurized oil to move the cutting jaw. This design provides steady force with little vibration, leading to precise cuts and longer blade life. Hydraulics also allow features such as adjustable cutting speed, automatic returning strokes, and compatibility with portable hydraulic shears where a diesel generator can be used when mains power isn’t available. A hydraulic alligator shear is therefore more than a simple guillotine — it’s a controlled cutting system tailored for tough materials.
Why invest in a hydraulic alligator shear? (How does an alligator shear improve safety and efficiency?)
Powerful yet precise cutting: Huanhong’s Q43 series can shear round steel up to 100 mm in diameter and square steel up to 100×100 mm. The larger Q43‑400 model produces up to 4,000 kN of pressure and delivers 5–7 cuts per minute. This high efficiency transforms metal recycling operations and cuts down waiting time in your workflow.
Handles diverse materials: Our machines cut scrap steel blocks, aluminum profiles, copper pipes and other non‑ferrous metals. Diversified material processing means you can use one alligator shearing machine for repurposing metal plates, trimming recycled parts, or downsizing construction waste.
Easy to operate and maintain: Manual controls are intuitive; operators quickly master the process. Hydraulic drives reduce vibration and noise, and our design does not require anchor bolts, allowing rapid installation. Maintenance is straightforward thanks to accessible hydraulic components and modular blades.
Portable and flexible: Some models can be fitted with diesel power packs for remote work. Portable hydraulic shears allow you to process scrap at demolition sites, remote recycling yards or other off‑grid workplaces without connecting to mains power. Smaller machines like the Q43‑100 are light and occupy little space, making them suitable for workshops with limited floor area.
Energy‑efficient and eco‑friendly: The Q43‑400 alligator shear is designed with energy‑saving considerations; its 22 × 2‑kW power requirement reduces electricity use while maintaining performance. This helps minimize operating costs and supports corporate sustainability goals.
Safety first: Operator safety is paramount. Models include multiple safety protection measures such as emergency stop buttons, protective covers and stable power supplies. These features ensure that hazardous scraps are cut without compromising staff safety.
How to choose the right alligator shear? (What size or type do I need?)
Selecting the best alligator shear for sale depends on the nature of your scrap and your operational scale. Ask yourself:
What materials will you cut? If you handle thin aluminum or copper connectors, a small alligator shear with a 600 mm blade may suffice. For thicker plates or round steel up to 85 mm, consider the Q43‑250 model with a nominal pressure of 2,500 kN. For large I‑beams or other heavy‑duty applications, the Q43‑400 or Q43‑500 series may be appropriate.
How much throughput do you require? Cutting frequency varies: the Q43‑100 provides 4–6 cuts per minute, while larger models deliver up to 7 cuts per minute. Choose a machine that matches your production schedule.
Space and power considerations: For confined spaces such as workshops with limited floor area, the compact Q43‑100 offers a small footprint. If you need mobility, opt for a portable hydraulic shear with diesel power. Always verify that your electrical supply meets the specified voltage and phase requirements (e.g., 380 V/3P/50 Hz).
Budget and customization: Huanhong’s machines are customizable — blade lengths, hydraulic pressure and motor power can be configured to your application. Let us know your scrap type and volume; we’ll tailor a solution.
Applications: scrap yards, fabrication and dismantling
Metal recycling plants
In large recycling yards, hydraulic alligator shears are essential for sizing scrap before baling or smelting. The Q43‑250 machine can cut scrap steel blocks, aluminum profiles and copper pipes, while the Q43‑400 handles thicker beams and plates with ease. Their ability to process diverse materials improves downstream melting efficiency and reduces transport costs.
Industrial manufacturing & construction
Manufacturing and fabrication shops use alligator shear machines to trim raw stock, cut off defective sections and repurpose off‑cuts. On construction sites, contractors cut reinforcing bars and steel pipes for efficient disposal. Because our shears do not require permanent anchor bolts, they can be moved around a shop floor as production lines change.
Dismantling and end‑of‑life vehicle processing
Car and ship dismantlers need to cut through chassis components, engine blocks and metal body panels quickly and safely. The Q43‑400 crocodile shear’s 4,000 kN force makes it capable of shearing heavy car frames. Its 1,500 mm blade length allows long pieces to be cut in a single stroke, speeding up operations.
Explore our alligator shear range
| Model | Nominal pressure & cutting capacity | Key features / ideal user |
| Q43‑100 (small alligator shear) | 1,000 kN nominal pressure; 600 mm blade length; 4–6 cuts/min | Compact, light and movable; ideal for workshops and small recycling stations |
| Q43‑250 | 2,500 kN nominal pressure; 1,000 mm blade length; cuts round steel up to 85 mm | Suitable for medium‑sized recycling yards; hydraulically driven; no anchor bolts needed |
| Q43‑400 & crocodile shear | 4,000 kN pressure; 1,500 mm blade; 5–7 cuts/min | Handles thick beams and steel pipes; energy‑saving design (22 × 2 kW power); multiple safety protections |
| Portable hydraulic shear | Available in 200 T and 400 T models | Equipped with diesel generators for off‑grid use; perfect for demolition sites and remote scrap yards |
Our product line also includes custom options for blade lengths, cutting pressures and power supply. Whether you need a heavy‑duty alligator shear machine for industrial recycling or a compact tool for workshop or small‑scale scrap, we have a solution.
Ready to upgrade your metal cutting process?
If you’re wondering “How do I choose the best hydraulic alligator shear?” or have other questions about metal cutting, our team of engineers is here to help. We understand the unique challenges faced by metal recyclers and industrial users — from handling heavy scrap safely to meeting industry specifications. By pairing your facility with a reliable alligator shear, you can ensure efficiency and safety throughout your operations.
Contact us for a customized quote
Every facility has different requirements, and we believe your equipment should reflect that. Get in touch to discuss:
The type and volume of metal waste you process.
Space and power constraints in your facility or recycling yard.
Required cutting force and blade length.
Budget and timeline.
Our specialists will recommend the ideal hydraulic alligator shear for sale, arrange a demonstration and provide competitive pricing. Don’t settle for generic solutions — experience the difference that precision, safety and efficiency can make.
Take the next step
Whether you’re expanding a recycling facility, upgrading your fabrication shop or tackling industrial scrap, Huanhong’s alligator shears and crocodile shears deliver the performance and peace of mind you need. Browse our models, ask us questions and request a quote today. Let us help you turn your scrap into value — safely, sustainably and efficiently.
The alligator shears from Jiangsu Huanhong Hydraulic stand out due to their exceptional cutting force and durability—perfectly suited for slicing through different types of metals in demolition sites or recycling plants where quick material downsizing is necessary.Can provide efficient working environment and processes for factories.
