Home > contract manufacturing > Why We Use Custom Razor Slitting–And Its Alternatives

slitting manufacturerCustom razor slitting is kind of difficult to understand if you aren’t even sure about razor slitting in the first place. But don’t worry—Conversion Technologies International has the info you need. Let’s explore the various slitting methods, and what makes custom razor slitting so valuable.

What is razor slitting?

Before we get into custom razor slitting, let’s cover some of the basics of razor slitting first. With razor slitting, we specifically use it to cut material into narrow strips or sheets. To do so, we use an industrial razor blade. Industrial cutting tools like these typically function at a stronger power than their more conventional alternatives. This allows us to cut through denser materials with a high degree of precision, while also maximizing efficiency.

The great thing about razor slitting in particular is that it significantly cuts down on waste. Not only does this make the process more sustainable—something many business owners take into mind currently—but more cost-efficient as well. When you waste less product, you have more product left over to use for the next project or order. It’s also known for suiting projects that emphasize accuracy and consistency, while also being adaptable. You can use razor slitting for most razor slitting processes. Which is why it’s so customizable.

Typically, we use razor slitting on thin and flexible materials that function at a high speed. Depending on the project, we may use it when converting aluminum foil, non-woven materials, or packaging plastic films. It’s extremely important that, no matter what you’re converting, you use the correct razors. This is because some razors aren’t quite as strong as others. This means that they tend to buckle under the pressure and speed with which razor slitting occurs. Some razors last mere minutes. On the other hand, other blades may last for weeks. The reason why this matters is that the more often you need to replace a razor, the more money you spend.

What are the different types of slitting?

The great thing about the slitting process is that there are several different variations beyond razor slitting. This means that you can find a process that suits your needs relatively easily.

We’ve obviously covered razor slitting. Some of the other slitting methods include:

Shear slitting. This method uses a two-part knife. You’ll notice that we refer to the ends of this knife to as the “male end” and the “female end”. We pass the substrate material through the ends of the knife, during which the machine cuts the material. Shear slitting falls under what we call high speed slitting. When a project needs execution as quickly as possible, we often turn to shear slitting. We apply this process to thinner materials, and a shear slitting machine usually provides precise results.

Score slitting. Also known as crush slitting, this process passes a moving substrate between a solid rotating anvil and a circular rotating knife or series of knives. The most common type of slitting, score slitting allows us to convert many different types of materials. While razor slitting and shear slitting better suite thinner materials, we can use score slitting for both thin, flexible materials and rigid or thick materials.

Some third party manufacturing companies favor one slitting method over others. However, others provide a variety of different slitting services. This offers you more flexibility and choice.

Why is slitting necessary?

One of the main reasons why we need to use the slitting process is that we simply need to cut product down. When transporting or reworking different products, it’s easier to do so when working with smaller amounts. To put it plainly, slitting ultimately functions as a form of breaking down or cutting products.

More specifically, we use custom razor slitting and other slitting methods to provide materials for a number of different industries. The packaging market relies on slitting, as do the pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and fashion industries. On top of thin plastic films, nonwovens, and foil, we also use this process to work with paper and vinyl.

How does custom razor slitting work?

Generally speaking, the basics of razor slitting don’t change when you choose custom razor slitting. However, custom razor slitting allows you to change the blades involved, the speed, and the degree of precision. That’s why we love the razor slitting process—we can make it what we need it to be for each product.

This is especially useful when you outsource these processes to third parties like CTI. The flexibility of custom razor slitting allows us to provide the exact results you’re looking for. When you work with us, you’ll go through an initial consultation during which we’ll begin to assess your needs. From there, we can discuss exactly the type of custom razor slitting you need.

Why would I work with a third party manufacturer?

If you haven’t considered working with a third party manufacturer before, here’s some basic information.

One of the main reasons why business owners work with third parties is that it’s simply more cost efficient. Rather than investing in permanent equipment and facilities (or renting it out) you’ll work with experts who not only provide great results, but the equipment as well. We have it covered—and, depending on the manufacturing option you choose, we can provide the raw materials as well.

Here’s how you learn more: Call CTI at 419-924-5566 or go here. Let’s discuss what we can do for you.