The Cut‑off Section (also called the cut‑off knife or NC cut‑off) is the part of the corrugator line that cuts the continuous corrugated board web into sheets of precise length at production speed.
It sits after the slitter‑scorer and before the stacker, and is critical for:
- Length accuracy — ensuring sheets match order specs.
- Clean edges — for downstream converting and box quality.
- High‑speed operation — often 300–400 m/min or more.
Common Types
Single Rotary Cut off
One knife cylinder; simpler, lower cost.
Double Rotary Cut off
Two knife cylinders; higher speed, smoother cutting.
Shear Cut off
Scissor like action for very clean edges.
NC (Numerical Control) Cut off
Servo driven, programmable for multiple lengths without stopping.
Twin Knife or Double Cut off
Allows instant order change without stopping the line.
Construction Features
A modern cut‑off section typically includes:
- Knife Assembly – Rotary or reciprocating blades, often tungsten carbide or HSS, precision‑ground for clean cuts.
- Drive System – Servo or gear‑driven for synchronized cutting with web speed.
- Frame & Guides – Heavy‑duty, vibration‑free construction for accuracy.
- Control System – PLC/HMI with recipe storage, length setting, and order change automation.
- Safety Enclosures – Full guarding with interlocks.
- Sheet Length Sensors – Encoders or laser sensors for precise timing.
- Waste Trim Handling – For edge trims or mis‑cuts.
Key Selection Factors
- Max Machine Speed – Must match or exceed corrugator speed.
- Length Accuracy – Tolerance required (±0.5 mm or better for high‑end lines).
- Board Grades & Flutes – Heavier boards may need more robust knife design.
- Order Change Frequency – NC and twin‑knife systems minimize waste.
- Cut Quality – Edge smoothness for downstream printing and folding.
- Maintenance Access – Ease of blade change and sharpening.
- Integration – Compatibility with upstream slitter‑scorer and downstream stacker.
- Safety & Compliance – Meets CE/OSHA standards.
Key Selection Factors
- Max Machine Speed – Must match or exceed corrugator speed.
- Length Accuracy – Tolerance required (±0.5 mm or better for high‑end lines).
- Board Grades & Flutes – Heavier boards may need more robust knife design.
- Order Change Frequency – NC and twin‑knife systems minimize waste.
- Cut Quality – Edge smoothness for downstream printing and folding.
- Maintenance Access – Ease of blade change and sharpening.
- Integration – Compatibility with upstream slitter‑scorer and downstream stacker.
- Safety & Compliance – Meets CE/OSHA standards.
Maintenance & Care
- Daily Cleaning – Remove dust and adhesive build‑up from knife area.
- Blade Inspection – Check for dullness, chips, or cracks; sharpen or replace as needed.
- Lubrication – Bearings, gears, and slides per OEM schedule.
- Alignment Checks – Ensure knife is square to web for clean cuts.
- Control Calibration – Verify encoder and servo accuracy.
- Safety Checks – Inspect guards, interlocks, and emergency stops.
Latest Technology Trends
- Twin‑Knife NC Cut‑off Systems – Instant order change with zero waste.
- High‑Speed Servo Drives – Precision cutting at 400 m/min+.
- Automatic Blade Gap & Angle Adjustment – Optimized for board grade and flute type.
- Predictive Maintenance Sensors – Monitor blade wear, vibration, and drive health.
- Integrated Quality Control – Cameras and sensors verify cut length and edge quality in real time.
- Energy‑Efficient Drives – Lower power consumption without sacrificing speed.
- Quick‑Change Blade Cartridges – Reduce downtime for sharpening or replacement.
- IoT Connectivity – Remote diagnostics, performance tracking, and integration with plant MES.
Key Parameters to Order
| Parameter | Why It Matters | Typical Range / Note |
| Machine Width | Must match corrugator | 1800–2800 mm |
| Max Speed | Matches line capacity | 150–400 m/min |
| Cut Length Range | Flexibility for orders | 500–5000 mm typical |
| Length Accuracy | Product quality | ±0.5–1.0 mm |
| Knife Type & Material | Cut quality & life | HSS, tungsten carbide |
| Drive Type | Precision & speed | Servo, gear |
| Order Change Mode | Waste reduction | NC, twin‑knife |
| Control System | Automation level | PLC/HMI with recipes |
| Safety Features | Compliance | CE/OSHA |
| Integration | Smooth workflow | Matches slitter‑scorer & stacker |
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