Page 42 - Print21 Jan-Feb 2022

Die-cutting
Cutting through to
a brighter future
Die-cutting has a long and interesting history, with today’s systems offering new opportunities to packaging printers and producers. Colleen Bate speaks to the leading players about the evolution of this fast-growing sector.
Before die-cutting was first introduced, holes in shoe leather were punched
by hand, making it an extremely labour intensive
process, which produced a lot of inconsistencies. By introducing die-cutting to cobblers, patterns for soles could be replicated through the die-cutting process.
Today die-cutting is used for product packaging design, where
a consistent and professional look is required, as dies are cut to the exact dimension measurements and specifications required.
Those new to the die-cutting business may be surprised by the range of machinery that make up the die-cutting process. Over time die-cutting has evolved from manual to automated rotary, press, flatbed and laser formats, with modular options, and advanced technology to drive them gaining ground within the industry.
Local die-cutting suppliers to the printing industry are bringing in the latest technologies from overseas, which are designed to offer print businesses of all sizes the opportunity to work in the packaging sector.
Currie Group: Horizon RD-N4055/ RD-N4055DM
The Horizon RD-N4055 combines a high-capacity feeder, single or dual-magnetic cylinder die-cutter, new SPC-N4055 separator, and new optional CSD-40RD card stacker.
The rotary die-cutter can die-cut, kiss-cut, emboss/deboss, crease/ score, perforate, slit, hole punch and round corner in a single pass or in
Above
Die cutting: Breakthrough technologies in systems large and small
multiple combinations for a wide range of applications, and includes a touch panel.
According to Robert Peterson, technical product manager, Currie Group, a standout feature of the cutter is its interchangeable design, which provides the choice of cylinder, and modular unit, as required.
With the addition of the separator and optional card stacker, the system eliminates the need for manual separating and counting at the delivery section,
to allow for improved accuracy and production efficiency.
Peterson points out that a particular benefit of the dual magnetic version of the cutter is its ability to create upper and lower dies, and mount them on the machine automatically or precisely, with results that are “very, very good,” he says. Peterson says that he has noticed a trend in the market for companies to produce this type of application in- house instead of outsourcing it.
“We are seeing more and more that small and medium sized printers
are installing machines and keeping jobs in-house, resulting in quick and efficient turnarounds,” he said.
Graffica: Century
MWB 1620Q
The Century MWB 1620Q is a semi- automatic die-cutting machine, which comes with a stripping system and is suitable for cutting solid board up to 2,000 gsm, and corrugated board up to 9mm.
Commonly used for die-cutting and creasing work, it is widely used on paper-made packaging materials such as paper boxes, cartons, trademarks, invitation greeting cards and corrugated carton.
According to Neil Southerington, director of local supplier Graffica, the Century MWB 1620Q can do the work of at least five clam shell die-cutters, and requires only one operator.
“Even though it is semi- automatic, it can be quite comfortable to be operated at 3000 sheets per hour,” he said.
Southerington says that the standout features of the machine are its receiving stacker and mounted camera, which helps workers operating the feeder see what's happening in the delivery area.
In terms of market trends, Southerington has noticed that companies are looking for die-cutters, with formats up to 2300mm, which can weigh up to 40,000kilogrammes.
Heidelberg:
Easymatrix 106 C/CS
With an output of 7,700 sheets per hour and short set-up times, the Easymatrix 106 C/CS offers productivity and cost- effectiveness up to the 106 format.
It processes materials from 90 to 2,000gsm as well as corrugated board up to 4mm thickness.
42 Print21 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022