"""
Knowledge about die cutting technologies for packaging manufacturing.
"""

title = "Die Cutting Technologies"

content = """
Die cutting transforms printed substrates into finished packaging shapes
through precision cutting, scoring, and perforation operations that prepare
board for folding and assembly.

**Steel Rule Die Cutting:** The dominant method for corrugated and folding
carton production. A wooden or fiberglass base holds steel cutting rules,
scoring rules, and perforating rules at precise heights. The die presses
against a polyurethane cutting blanket or steel counter-die. This method
handles complex layouts, irregular shapes, and multiple products in one
impression. Setup involves die mounting, registration adjustment, and
blanket condition verification.

**Rotary Die Cutting:** Cylindrical dies mounted on rotating drums enable
high-speed inline cutting with flexographic printing. Male/female rotary
pairs provide clean cuts on thinner materials. Magnetic cylinders hold
flexible steel dies for rapid changeover. Rotary cutting suits high-volume,
repetitive jobs where changeover frequency is low.

**Flatbed vs. Rotary Decision Criteria:** Flatbed systems offer lower tooling
costs, accommodate heavier board, and handle complex multi-up layouts.
Rotary systems achieve higher speeds and tighter tolerances on appropriate
materials. Most packaging operations maintain both capabilities for different
job profiles.

**Scoring and Creasing:** Scoring compresses board to create precise fold
lines without cutting. Narrow scores suit quality folding cartons; wider
mortise scores facilitate RSC manufacturing. Matrix creasing on rotary
systems applies male/female channels for corrugated applications. Proper
scoring prevents cracking on fold lines, especially critical for clay-coated
boards and UV-coated surfaces.

**Strip-Out and Waste Handling:** Effective die cutting removes both product
and trim waste. Automated stripping tools (pins, brushes, vacuum) separate
finished blanks from matrix. Waste evacuation systems transport trim to
recycling or disposal. Poorly configured waste handling causes jams, quality
defects, and production delays.
"""

version = "0.0.1"
