Non-Traditional Types of Rotary Die Cutting
Die cutting, as a manufacturing process, is a highly versatile means of forming web-like materials. By having the word “cutting” in the name, many are under the impression that dies are only used for one purpose: cutting out shapes from large sheet material. It is essential to recognize that die forming is done differently with different processes. Die forming operations deform sheet materials of different materials using forces like tension, compression, or both. Creating an optimal die cutting process requires taking into account the mechanical properties of the material being used.
Besides cutting, there are many other processes that rotary die cutting can get through:
Blanking – blanking dies produce completely flat pieces of materials. This forming process gets its name because the finished product is blank. In most cases, a blanking die only cuts the outside contour of a part. Ideally, this means of forming is ideal for materials and products with no internal features.
Coining – this forming transfers images to blanked materials. Coining dies squeeze blanks within the coined area so that the blank is not bent.
Drawing – drawings create plastic deformation so that material can extend past the end of the part. Engineers can create intricate and detailed designs with this type of rotary die cutting.
Pancaking – a pancake die is relatively simple and used for piercing and blanking. This is one of the most simplistic means of creating specific parts. Pancaking is a quick way to produce a lot of perfect pieces.