Paper Cutters -- The Winning Edge

* The varieties of stock and how often they are used. Substrate varieties are constantly growing, so cutting time factors into the equation. For example, a light-duty, electric powered knife and clamp is not suitable for a printer that relies on the cutter on a daily basis with a steady volume of work. The varieties of stock being cut must be matched to the proper cutting blade material and rake angle.

* The user's electrical power and floor space requirements.

* The finishing/trimming applications. If the user produces perfect bound or saddlestitched books, three-side and face trimming capabilities must be considered.

* Are an air bed and/or workflow systems needed? An air bed can greatly increase productivity by reducing the amount of effort required to move large lifts of stock through the cutter.

Baum programmable cutters are easy to program with "block programming" features. All Baum cutters include infrared light beams as standard equipment for enhanced safety. They have an exclusive knife change from the front of the cutter. In addition, all knives are high-speed steel as standard equipment and the cutter table surfaces do not require waxing.

While the width, size and appearance of a paper cutter may be similar to others, it is what's inside the cutter that makes the difference, according to Walter Gierlach, president of Pro-Graphics Network.

"You need to look specifically at individual areas such as the backgauge design and where and how it is driven," he says. "Pay close attention to the sturdiness of the frame, table, blade beam and clamp. Finally, check the hp of the motor and how the cutter is powered and driven. You can also learn and view the specific features of the computer and how it operates. Don't forget to check the warranty in detail."

Pro-Graphics Network recently introduced the Pro-Cut 320MPSIII cutter, which weighs more than 3,500 lbs. using a solid steel frame and table. It is driven by a 10-hp motor. Standard features include main air table, 20x26˝ side tables, new duel computer screen, new overhead backgauge system, high-speed steel knives and a two-year "bumper-to-bumper" warranty.