Die cutting is a manufacturing technique used to make a wide range of rubber parts. From gaskets and seals to bumper pads and barriers, die-cut parts can be produced in a highly efficient and cost-effective manner.
During die cutting, a substrate can be shaped, scored, or perforated into designs that fit customer preferences. This process is particularly useful when producing parts made from rubber. Discover five benefits of purchasing die-cut parts for your business applications.
1. Efficiency
Die cutting is a highly efficient process used to produce parts in bulk. Because die cutters can be programmed to deliver precise cuts across your target material, your end products will be consistent in shape, size, and quality.
Some die cutters, such as rotary die cutters, can also multitask during the manufacturing process. For example, rotary die cutters will slice through adhesive materials while also laminating your designs as necessary. In this way, you can add multiple features to your die-cut parts without delaying the manufacturing timeline.
2. Customization
Die-cutting machines come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most basic die-cutters can slice through all layers of your raw material and create custom designs for gaskets and seals. For example, gaskets that create watertight passages for oil and coolant may need to seal surfaces across two parts of the vehicle. Therefore, you can create customized shapes without compromising efficiency.
Some die cutters are capable of advanced cutting techniques such as perforating and creasing. Whether you need gaskets with a series of target holes or highly customized bumper pads that contain a fold line, die cutting will help you purchase products with precise cuts and shapes that fit your end product.
3. Shorter Lead Times
If you want to reduce inventory and save space, consider purchasing die-cut materials. Die cutting allows manufacturers to produce parts in high volume and within a short period. Rather than stocking up on parts that you don’t need, you can adjust your orders to reflect demand without worrying about delays.
The highly efficient and automated die-cutting process allows manufacturers to use just-in-time shipping and deliver the parts you need—when you need them. You can also communicate with your die-cutting manufacturer to develop a responsive supply chain. For example, sharing periods when you expect high or low demand will enable your supplier to scale operations as necessary.
4. Durability
Producing parts in bulk doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice durability or performance. In fact, die-cut parts can operate effectively in high-temperature and pressure settings. For example, gaskets often handle hot fluids and gases while the vehicle is running. By using materials such as rubber, your gaskets will expand and contract in response to the operating environment.
The precise cuts from die-cutting machines will also ensure a tight fit in vehicles and prevent holes where leaks could occur. And because die cutting can be performed on materials with varying thicknesses, you’ll maintain robust designs to sustain high-pressure fluids such as coolant and engine oil.
5. Cost-Effectiveness
Whether you need perforated gaskets for newer products or creased bumper pads for existing products, you can get the desired parts at a competitive cost. Die cutters can produce parts in high volume and suited for intricate designs. These machines can also handle a wide range of rubber materials, which gives you more options when working with a manufacturer.
If you need reliable die-cut parts for your automotive applications, Accurate Products is here to help. We have over 65 years of experience working with industrial partners and O.E.M markets. Contact us to explore our services today.