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726 Introduction to Machine Guarding
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Actions

Cutting

Cutting action may involve rotating, reciprocating, or transverse motion.

The danger of cutting action exists at the point of operation where finger, arm and body injuries can occur and where flying chips or scrap material can strike the head, particularly in the area of the eyes or face. Such hazards are present at the point of operation in cutting wood, metal, or other materials.

Examples of mechanisms involving cutting hazards include band saws, circular saws, boring or drilling machines, turning machines (lathes), or milling machines.

Punching

Punching action results when power is applied to a slide (ram) for the purpose of blanking, drawing, or stamping metal or other materials.

Machine punching actions

The danger of this type of action occurs at the point of operation where stock is inserted, held, and withdrawn by hand.

Typical machines used for punching operations are power presses and iron workers.

Shearing

Shearing action involves applying power to a slide or knife in order to trim or shear metal or other materials.

Image showing machine shearing action

A hazard occurs at the point of operation where stock is actually inserted, held, and withdrawn.

Examples of machines used for shearing operations are mechanically, hydraulically, or pneumatically powered shears.

Bending

Bending action results when power is applied to a slide in order to draw or stamp metal or other materials.

Image showing machine bending action

A hazard occurs at the point of operation where stock is inserted, held, and withdrawn.

Equipment that uses bending action includes power presses, press brakes, and tubing benders.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-5. Which of the following actions involves applying power to a slide or knife in order to trim or shear metal or other materials?