Automatic cutting machinery

Types of automatic cutting machinery

An automatic cutting machine is used for large-scale cutting needs in various industries, including textiles, metals, wood, glass, leather, and more. Such machines provide precise, uniform cuts, enhancing productivity and reducing waste. Based on different parameters, automatic cutting machines can be classified into various categories.

• Cutting materials: There are various kinds of all-purpose automatic cutting machines, each manufactured to cater to a specific type of material. As mentioned earlier, this includes textiles, metals, wood, glass, and more. Each of these categories has its own respective cutting machines that fall under them. An example would be an automatic fabric cutting machine designed with blades that cut through multiple layers of fabric at once efficiently.
• Cutting techniques: Cut materials using different methods. Some examples are shearing, sawing, and plazma cutting. All these methods also include sub-methods within them. For instance, sawing has band saws and circular saws, to name a few. Each technique matches specific materials and achieves precise cuts.
• Automation features: Automatic cutting machines come equipped with various automated features. These can include programmable logic controllers (PLCs) for precise control, optical sensors for material recognition and alignment, and automatic feed systems for consistent cutting. Also, they have safety features to protect the operator and prevent accidents. Those may include emergency stop buttons, blade guards, safety interlocks, etc.
• Cutting capacity: Another way buyers can categorize an automatic cutting machine is by its cutting capacity. This refers to the maximum thickness it can cut through. Usually, all-purpose automatic cutting machines can handle multiple layers simultaneously. For example, an industrial wood fabric cutting machine is likely to have larger capacities compared to its counterpart, which is designed to cut through metals.
• Workpiece shapes: Workpiece shapes are yet another criteria that buyers use to categorize automatic cutting machines. Shapes also include sizes. Some machines are better suited for cutting straight shapes. These include, but are not limited to, a straight knife automatic fabric cutting machine, band saws, and Alligator® cut sawing machines. Conversely, others specialize in curved and intricate patterns. Examples of such machines are CNC routers and laser cutters.

Specification and maintenance of automatic cutting machinery

Mundane fabric-cutting processes are becoming a thing of the past as automated fabric cutters increase productivity manifold. Broadly, cutting machines are used to trim different types of materials, including foam rubber, insulation, carpet, leather, wood, plastics, ceramics, metal, and food. These all require different specifications and maintenance requirements.

Top-of-the-line CNC cutting machines can come with five-axis control. The workpieces are secured, and the tool moves along the programmed axes to Cut the material. Some machines even offer 3D contour cutting. The blades can vary from laser to plasma to high-speed blades, depending on the material to be cut. Key components of all CNC machines include the controller, frame, motor, drive, power supply, tool holder, and cutting tools. Usually, an ATC tool holder is preferred as it helps save time and improves precision by automatically changing tools between cuts.

Water jet material cutting machines require regular maintenance checks on the water pump, nozzle, and filters, as well as pressure and alignment adjustments. Laser cutting machines primarily use CO2 and fiber lasers. Maintenance for these machines includes mirror cleaning, lens inspection, and lubricating the guide rails. Plasma cutting machines use high-temperature plasma arc gases to cut materials. Users have to ensure that the plasma torch is maintained and gas levels are optimized for smooth cuts.

Automatic Fabric Cutting Machines are also used to cut garment fabrics with precision. This helps save time and reduce fabric wastage when making garments. Maintenance usually includes blade lubrication and sharpening, software updates, calibration checks, and vacuum system maintenance.

In general, it is always better to refer to the product manual rather than to rely on subjective experience or understanding.

Scenarios of automatic cutting machinery

As mentioned before, the usage of the fabric cutting machine may vary based on the industry, business type and application of the end product. The following are a few business-specific scenarios where some of the mentioned automatic cutting machines work effectively.

• Apparel manufacturing: Automatic fabric cutting machines play a prolific role in the multiple stages of garment manufacturing, such as men, women and kidswear manufacturing, as well as the production of pyjamas, sportswear, underwear, work clothes and other types of clothing, including those made of knit, woven, non-woven and mixed fabrics. These garments are made from a range of materials. They are employed, for instance, to cut out a set number of the same T-shirts or jackets from a single fabric roll in an efficiency-saving method.
• Furniture and textile industries: These firms often employ automatic upholstery fabric cutting machines with varied knives and speeds to cut a variety of delicate textiles and bedding materials at once. An example of this is the use of an ultrasonic cutting machine in the matrasses industry to make curved and rounded cuts and bevels in foam.
• Car industry: The vast majority of cars are now mass-produced. Consequently, automatic leather car seat cutting machines are now indispensable because they make it possible to precisely and efficiently cut a large number of complex shapes needed for car interiors, including carpets, headliners, door panels, seats and liners, at once. Also, thanks to nesting software, which allows to maximally utilize both the material and the time.
• Packaging industry: Mainly roll-fed, box cutters, CTL and die-cutting machines are used in this field. They are utilized, for instance, to cut packaging materials such as cardboard, plastic and foam into shapes and sizes for boxes, labels, containers, blisters and cushioning components, respectively. They are also employed to help package design and prototyping development or in fulfilment centres for apparel packing.
• Food industry: Various food products such as pizzas, bakery goods, fruits, sandwiches, cookies, shape and theme cuttings for schools or kids in general, and many more have been mentioned before are done through the use of either ultrasonic or laser cutting machines. These help maintain the integrity of the food products in terms of freshness, moisture, etc., while ensuring that the cuts are perfectly clean.
• Signage and advertising: In this area, laser cutting machines and CNC routers are the two most commonly used devices. They are used in it to unequally create different kinds of designs for exterior and interior signages, promotional displays, event booths, digital screens, etc. The nesting software can also ensure a maximisation of material utilization.
• Orthopedic and prosthetic industry: Automatic cutting machines are used to make orthopedic support products, prosthetics and orthoses, which require precision and uniformity. Consult a doctor and manufacturer to help the child or handicapped persons lead a somewhat normal life.

How to Choose Automatic Cutting Machinery

Generally, the following tips can help business buyers to choose the right automatic cutting machines for their operations.

• Production Volume and Speed:

  First, it is important to consider the production volume and speed that an applicant's facility can support. Choose a cutting machine that can handle the expected cutting volume without compromising quality. Look for a machine that offers flexible cutting speeds to match the production pace of the enterprise.

• Cutting Accuracy and Quality:

  Ensure the selected cutting machine provides the level of cutting accuracy and quality required for the buyer's products. Consider the tolerance levels and precision cutting measurements needed. Opt for a machine that can deliver high-quality cuts to maintain product standards and minimize rework.

• Material Compatibility:

  It is important to choose an automatic cutting machine that can handle the specific materials used in a buyer's production process. Consider the machine's cutting method, blades, and attachments to ensure compatibility with the required materials.

• Machine Size and Layout:

  Consider the dimensions and layout requirements of the chosen automatic cutting machine. Ensure the machine will fit in an operational space and that there is enough room to move, load, and unload materials. Work with the supplier to evaluate the facility's workflow and determine the best layout for the cutting solution.

• Operator Training and Support:

  When selecting an automatic cutting machine, it is important to consider the availability of training and support for the operator. Ensure that the supplier provides comprehensive training programs to familiarize operators with the machine's features, functions, and maintenance requirements.

Automatic Cutting Machinery FAQ

Q1: What is the future trend of the automatic cutting machinery market?

A1: The cutting machine market will continue to grow rapidly. While traditional cutting machines still occupy a large market share, automatic cutting machines will gradually become the mainstream market because of their efficiency and intelligence.

Q2: Do buyers need to set up a software system for a new automatic cutting machine?

A2: In some cases, cutting machines may require software installation for configuration or modifications. It's best to consult with the manufacturers before the purchase to know the specific requirement.

Q3: Will the new automatic cutting machine integrate with existing equipment?

A3: Most new automatic cutting machines will integrate with existing equipment. Still, the integration's ease will depend on the cutting machine and the pieces of equipment to be connected. It's suggested to discuss the integration possibilities with the suppliers before buying.

Q4: What are the safety features of the latest automatic cutting machines?

A4: The latest automatic cutting machines usually come with various safety features, such as emergency stop buttons, protective covers, and safety interlocks. These safety devices can prevent accidental injuries and ensure equipment operating safely.