Paper Cutters — Honing a Competitive Edge
Perfecta offers cutters in sizes from 30˝ to 66˝, as well as a complete line of material handling peripherals. At PRINT 01, it showed the Cut-O-Drill machine for the first time in the U.S., Stow reports. "It is the only machine capable of cutting and drilling within the same operation."
The manufacturer's cutters feature slotless tables with servo-drive positioning systems to provide accurate backgauge movement. A "Smart Clamp" system is said to sense the pile height and engage the backgauge sooner. Stow says that the machine's control systems employ a flexible touchscreen with color graphics to help guide the operator, and are CIP4 ready.
Since cutting system components typically are modular, shops do have the option of adding pieces as they need them, points out Colter & Peterson's Marr. "The sequence we usually see is a lifting device, followed by a jogger and then an unloader."
Colter & Peterson offers two different lines of cutters, both of which feature U.S.-made computer control systems, Marr says, so the commands are clear and built around how American operators are used to working. The cutters also feature oversized tables that are chrome finished and air cushioned.
The main difference in the higher-end Saber line is its use of a double-end pull of the knife for increased cutting power and greater control over the knife, which boosts performance and cut quality, Marr explains. The product line also offers more features as standard.
Can't Beat the System
One of the motivating factors for the trend toward installing systems is deadline pressures, says Matthew Simons, national finishing manager at MAN Roland in Westmont, IL. (The press manufacturer also markets the Wohlenberg line of cutting systems.) There is a more direct profit motive, as well, he says.
"There is no money being made unless the knife is cycling," Simons notes. "Material handling consumes the largest amount of time in the cutting process. Therefore, automating the way material flows to and from the cutter is the best way to increase production."
