
When it comes to demolition and recycling projects, an excavator shear is one of the most powerful attachments you can add to your machine. However, many buyers get confused by the different types of shears on the market, such as single cylinder hydraulic shear, eagle shear, and double cylinder hydraulic shear. Each has unique features and applications. In this article, we’ll explain the differences and help you choose the right model for your project.
Excavator Shear Parameters
| Product | Excavator-mounted hydraulic demolition shear for waster scrap rebar | ||||
| Item | YG-620 | YG-1413 | YG-2200 | YG-2977 | YG-4052 |
| Weight kg | 620 | 1413 | 2200 | 2977 | 4052 |
| Max. Open Size mm | 334.4 | 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 |


Single Cylinder Hydraulic Shear
A single cylinder hydraulic shear is the most basic type of excavator shear.
Features:
- Driven by one hydraulic cylinder.
- Compact design and lighter weight.
- Simple structure, easy to maintain.
Applications:
- Cutting rebar, pipes, and light steel structures.
- Small to medium-scale demolition projects.
- Scrap processing in recycling yards.
Advantages:
- Affordable price and lower operating costs.
- Easy to install and use with small to medium excavators.
- Perfect for contractors who need a cost-effective cutting solution.
Limitations:
- Cutting force is lower compared to double cylinder models.
- Not suitable for extra-thick steel or heavy-duty demolition.
- Eagle Shear (Scrap Shear / Demolition Shear)


An Eagle Shear (also known as scrap shear or demolition shear)
It gets its name from its beak-like jaw design. This type is widely used in heavy demolition and scrap recycling.
Features:
- Large jaw opening with angled blades for strong biting force.
- Usually driven by one cylinder, but optimized for wide opening and efficient cutting.
- Heavy-duty body with wear-resistant materials.
Applications:
- Building demolition (steel beams, reinforced concrete).
- Scrap yard processing (car bodies, structural steel, machinery).
- Ship dismantling and large-scale metal recycling.
Advantages:
- Powerful cutting force with large opening.
- Ideal for thick steel and oversized scrap.
- Replaces manual cutting and improves work safety.
Limitations:
- Heavier in weight, requires larger excavators.
- Higher cost compared to light-duty shears.


Double Cylinder Hydraulic Shear
A double cylinder hydraulic shear is designed for maximum power and stability, with two hydraulic cylinders working together.
Features:
- Two cylinders provide balanced force on both sides.
- Stronger jaws with higher cutting efficiency.
- Heavy-duty build for industrial-grade projects.
Applications:
- Large-scale demolition (industrial buildings, bridges, steel plants).
- Processing oversized scrap and heavy steel beams.
- High-volume recycling operations.
Advantages:
- High cutting power and speed.
- Better balance and stability during cutting.
- Long service life even under extreme working conditions.
Limitations:
- Heavier and more expensive than single cylinder models.
- Requires larger excavators with stronger hydraulic output.
Comparison Table about Shear for Excavator
| Types | Single Cylinder Hydraulic Shear | Eagle Shear | Double Cylinder Hydraulic Shear |
| Structure | One cylinder, simple design | Beak-shaped jaw, large opening | Two cylinders, heavy-duty |
| Cutting Force | Medium | Medium-High | High |
| Typical Applications | Rebar, pipes, light steel | Demolition, scrap recycling, car dismantling | Industrial demolition, heavy scrap cutting |
| Advantages | Affordable, lightweight, easy maintenance | Large jaw opening, powerful biting | Strongest force, high efficiency |
| Limitations | Limited power for thick steel | Heavier, higher excavator requirement | Expensive, very heavy |
How to Choose the Right Excavator Shear?
- For light demolition or small scrap yards: A single cylinder hydraulic shear is cost-effective and efficient.
- For general demolition and recycling: An eagle shear offers versatility with strong cutting force and wide application.
- For heavy-duty industrial projects: A double cylinder hydraulic shear provides unmatched power and durability.
YG Machinery Excavator Shear Solutions
YG Machinery provides a full range of excavator shears, including single cylinder hydraulic shear, eagle shear, and double cylinder hydraulic shear. With robust design, reliable performance, and global after-sales service, we help contractors and recyclers improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Contact us today to get the best excavator shear solution for your project. 【WhatsApp/WeChat/Phone】+86 13837115193.












