How to Care for Your Steel Rule Die Cuts - 2024 Maintenance Guide
Maintenance Practices
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Regular Cleaning: It is important to clean out the bits of fibre, paper and any materials that build up in the joints of the dies (where the cutting or creasing rule meets). If dies are not kept clean, the scraps will eventually push the rule slightly apart. This cleaning is especially important if cutting thick materials such as leather, magnetic sheets & self-adhesive felt etc.
- Proper Storage: Store steel rule dies in a cool, dry place to prevent warping and degradation of materials, particularly for steel rule die cut with wooden mount. Die cuts with acrylic mount will be humidity proof and autoclavable.
- Monitor Wear and Tear: Be aware that different materials will wear down steel rule dies at different rates; for example, cutting through paper may yield around 250,000 impressions, while tougher materials like leather, PU, laminated plastics etc may increase the wear rate.
- Avoid Hard Contact: When setting up your press or hammering station, ensure the sharp end of the steel rule does not contact hard surfaces too forcefully as this can flatten or damage the cutting edges. Also place it on a nylon or proper cutting matt.
By following the above guidelines, you can maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your steel rule die cuts while maintaining high-quality output. Happy Cutting!
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