The main difference is in the cylinder and press-cutting design.
Rotary die-cutting machine
One cylinder acts as the impression cylinder and applies pressure. The other is the rotary die. Rotary dies come in wooden and metal types. Wooden rotary dies are mainly used for thicker corrugated board. Metal rotary dies are made by chemical etching or electronic engraving, and they suit adhesive labels and tags. Another metal rotary die type is built for mid-to-high-end long-run products. It can use crush cutting or shear cutting.
Flatbed die-cutting machine
A flatbed machine uses a flat die bed and a flat press-cutting mechanism. Based on platen position, it comes in vertical and horizontal designs. During cutting, the platen moves under drive and presses against the die bed. Platen motion falls into two types. In one type, the platen swings around a fixed hinge. At the moment cutting starts, there is an angle between the platen face and the die face. This can put too much pressure on the lower part of the die and leave the upper part not fully cut. In the other type, a connecting rod moves the platen. The platen swings on flat guide rails with cylindrical rollers as pivots. When the platen face reaches parallel with the die, it presses forward in a parallel motion.
Flatbed machines usually offer good cost performance. For high-volume runs of mid-to-high-end long-run products, a flatbed die-cutting machine is often the practical choice.
Hansheng Automation machines replacement and custom parts for rotary and flatbed die-cutting machines, including rotary dies, flat dies, and wear parts, from customer drawings for one-off and small-batch orders.
