Laser Die Cutting V.S. Rotary Die Cutting
In any manufacturing process, a business evaluates cutting based on speed, accuracy, versatility, maintenance, and pricing. In general, laser die cutting is suitable for manufacturers that focus on short run orders with various customization requirements. The rotary die cutting is ideal for simple non-custom products in bulk. Let’s look into why that is so?
Change cut pattern on the fly without stopping
The shape and pattern of the cut are controlled through software programs in the laser die cutting. In rotary die cutting, it is controlled through the physical die cutting tool. Therefore, if the majority of your orders are short run jobs with different pattern requirements, then laser die cutting may be more suitable.
Cut intricate sizes and shapes
In general, laser cutting can produce a more precise cut, especially when it comes to intricate sizes and shapes that are more difficult to complete on a rotary die cutter.
No material contact during cuts
For products that require minimal contamination or contamination-free, laser die cutting can provide a non-contact process. For instance, sterile medical packaging and flexible electronics.
Quicker time to market
For laser die cutting, one can upload a drawing and start cutting immediately. For laser die cutting, the programs are easily saved and recalled. With the time saved from each job, when the number adds up, it will make a big impact on the delivery time.
Flexible cutting method
Ablation, scoring, kiss cutting, drilling, slitting…etc. Not only the type of shape and pattern can change, but the type of cutting can also change. On a laser die cutting, you are able to get more flexibility when compared to the rotary die cutting.
No sharpening or tool storage needed
As no physical tool is required, the sharpening maintenance of the cutting tool is not required. Another benefit of this is that rotary dies are heavy and take up much space. with laser die cutting, you can eliminate the time to transport the die on and off storage. At the same time saving storage space.
Pricing
Last but not least, pricing is always going to be a main concern when it comes to business investment. In general, the upfront cost of a laser die cutting machine tends to be more expensive, but if you encompass the operation of maintaining and replacing the die cutting machine, eventually the die-cutting machine will be more expensive than the laser die cutting machine.
Article by Daywey Chen, KYMC
