Steel Rule Die Cutting – New Nuance in Fabrication and Manufacturing Industry

Steel Rule Die Cutting – New Nuance in Fabrication and Manufacturing Industry

Fabrication and manufacturing are hard core industrial terms that are applied to the building of machines, structures and other equipment, by cutting, shaping and assembling components made from raw materials used for the purpose of sale. Of recent the markets of a variety of components all over the world have seen tremendous growth in terms of technology and ideas, and so has the fabrication and manufacturing industry.

The latest from this sector is the steel rule die cutting process that is used to cut a range of sheet materials including paper, cardboard, rubber and plastic. Although many manufacturers and suppliers of fabrication devices might have come across this term, but getting an insight in it would not have been quite possible. This article takes about the various process and advantages along with the varieties that revolve around steel rule die cutting. This is clearly termed as a straightforward technique wherein most standard cardboard boxes and packages are made. Besides cutting the shape, steel rule die can be used to create creases, perforations and slits as well.

This die is made out of a flat base or substrate which is generally crafted out from a high-grade and high-density plywood. Although the manufacturers can also install steel and aluminum substrates for the purpose, the die makers for this process involve special band saw or laser cutter to cut precisely positioned slits into the substrate. Owing to the fact that the steel rule itself is is essentially an elongated razor blade made out of hardened steel, the process of cutting becomes easier. The next step performed is to cut and bend the steel rule and position it into the slits in the substrate. The last but the most important step installed in this steel rule die cutting process is to add the ejection rubber after the material is cut. This is essential in avoiding the material to get stuck amongst the steel rules. Thus the combination of substrate, steel rule and ejection rubber forms the steel rule die.

In the manufacturing and fabrication markets a wide array of steel rules are available that can be classified as per their thickness and relevant application. Some of the most commonly used steel rules are Center bevel that has the most durable configuration and its cutting edge is appropriately centered between the two faces of the rule. Another variant is the facet bevel that is shaped more like a diamond and tends to provide cleaner cuts. The flush bevel is uses a cutting edge that is in line with one of the faces of the rule. The disadvantage of this type of die cutting is lesser longevity. Last but not the least is the side bevel that has the cutting edge slightly off center and has the advantage of good cutting quality as well as longevity.

Steel rule die cutting is an important process involved in the fabrication and manufacturing industry and can be used for cutting more exotic materials. Though it may be termed as a little expensive but it has certainly proven itself to be the most effective way of cutting soft sheet goods.