What Die Cutter Manufacturers Can Do For You

So, you’re looking for die cutter manufacturers. We’re guessing that means you need to have a die cutting order processed. No worries! CTI is here to offer guidance—from beginning to end.

What is an industrial die cutting machine?

When you’re in the market for die cutter manufacturers, you may have some questions. For instance, exactly what are you looking for? What do they produce? First off, know that the industrial die cutting process serves a diverse range of industries, in part because it’s simply so broad. When you use an industrial die cutting machine, you’re essentially cutting uniform shapes and parts from materials, creating a wide range of products that are all identical to each other. We make each die out of a number of different precision pieces, put together to cut, shape, and manipulate materials through a die press system.

Think of it this way—ultimately, we make each product out of different pieces. When you break those pieces down into shapes, that’s what an industrial die cutting machine makes for you. It’s that original source point. Of course, you’ll find a good deal of flexibility in terms of the materials commercial die cutter manufacturers process. From paper to rubber to foam, sheet metal, and foil, and even fabric—die cutter manufacturers work with all of them.

Of course, the machines’ purposes extend beyond even manufacturing in this day and age. In recent years, a team from MIT used industrial die cutting equipment to create disposable face shields—understandably vital. While you may need an industrial die cutter machine for more day -to-day purposes, it’s nonetheless important. We want you to feel fully confident that you’re choosing the right process, equipment, and—as is the case for many—third party manufacturer, no matter your purpose or industry.

What kinds of products do die cutter manufacturers create?

Like we said, the types of products made by industrial die cutting manufacturers range greatly. Some of the more notable types include:

• Cardboard and carton packaging. Industrial die cutting manufacturers make the products that act as the literal basis for a lot of packaging supplies. Think mailers, bookends, cargo liner components, and more!
• Foam parts. We can use the typical die press to create foam products as well. These include automotive parts, rigid foam insulation, and gaskets among other things.
• Plastic parts. Consider how reliant we are upon plastic products in general—then consider how many of these products we create with industrial die cutting machines. Typically, industrial die cutters process thin sheets of plastic, with most manufacturers fabricating hold-downs and stiffeners.
• Rubber parts. Don’t forget, we create rubber parts with industrial die cutting machines as well. These typically pertain to the automotive industry, where industrial die cutter manufacturers cover gasoline engine seals and rubber gaskets, plus more.
• Fabrics and fibers. Last but certainly not least, we also use industrial die cutting equipment to process fabric and fiber products. Typically, these products pertain to furniture-making, clothing design, and interior décor.

What are the different types of die cutters?

Before you search for die cutter manufacturers, make sure you’re certain about the type of die cutter you’re looking for. Below, we’ll cover three of the main types of die cutters.

• A manual die cutting machine applies steel-cutting dies, and we activate it with a lever. Usually, we use these machines, which are quite compact, for hobby desks and home usage. In other words, they’re less than ideal for business owners looking to produce on a larger scale.
• In contrast, these die cutting machines work perfectly for large scale product runs. This is what you’re looking for if you need to expand quickly without cutting efficiency or uniformity. What sets an industrial die cutting machine apart is that it’s much more automated and focused on speeding up production.
• While we love digital die cutting machines for certain products, they are, again, typically best-suited for home usage. With these machines, you’ll need a computer cartridge containing an image. Obviously, this product requires electricity to operate properly. Rather than using a steel die, this machine applies a sharp blade when cutting materials.

What are the different types of die cutting methods?

After you decide on the type of machine you’ll see from die cutter manufacturers, narrow down your preferred methods as well.

• We rely on the semi-rotary method (and semi-rotary cutter tools) for label cutting above anything else. It’s easier for these tools to shear special labels. This process involves cylindrical die we roll in one direction, while the web itself moves back and forth, creating incisions.
• The drawing method draws the material through the machine to the ideal length, working best for thin and long items.
• The blanking method works best when you’re focusing on the outer edges of flat materials, and slices it further.
• The coining method relies upon a pressured force, creating circular shapes within materials. We prefer this for more intricate packaging designs.
• When we work with the broaching method, we use a steel die, characterized by multiple rows of teeth.
• Finally, we use the forming method when working with a curved surface. When manipulating that surface with a die cutting machine, we can create customized cylindrical packaging components.

Can I handle die cutting in-house?

We’re not here to tell you what you can and can’t do—only you can really know what you’re looking for. However, if you’re not super familiar with the die cutting process or need a larger order (or for that matter, a consistent amount of product on a regular basis) that’s an immediate sign that you may need to work with a third party.

Fortunately, we have plenty of options on the table for you—and can guide you as you make a final decision. Give us a call at 419-924-5566 or go here for more information. We’re ready to help!