Many boxmakers and die shops are finding it increasingly difficult to justify the old machine shop approach to diemaking. However, with Elcede's fully automated CIM-Line die processing system, a die shop or box plant can reportedly create a better die quicker. Elcede's system is computer-controlled using STL software and, according to the manufacturer, helps to ensure that each die produced will withstand the demanding requirements of high-speed presses. The following features are designed to help boxmakers reduce downtime: A flatter die requiring less patch-up; fewer mitered joints that can cause press slowdowns; and tapered rule ends that ensure accurate knife-edge alignment.

Elcede's products are designed to automate every step of the diemaking process. And while they operate together as a fully automated system, they can also be purchased one at a time to build gradually toward full automation. Available stations include:

The ACS 100 Even before the die board is available, rule lengths are determined by computer and communicated to the ACS 100, which is designed to cut the rule to exact length with +.0008-in. accuracy. Custom perforation and nicking are also completed on this equipment. Reportedly, in multi-up layouts, the ACS 100 automatically steps and repeats identical pieces.

The CCM 238 Elcede's broaching process is designed to be quick and efficient so heat does not build up and damage the rule temper and construction. It is also designed to ensure sharp angles, which eliminate many mitered joints. Rule heights are not distorted and like rule cutting, broaching is completed as the die board is being burned.

The HC3 BA/BR Elcede's two-station, gauge-less bending system allows for automatic bending of sharp angles and radius bending for two-point and three-point rules. These receive data transmission from the STL program, which stores material tables for all rule types.

The FSB-80 Elcede's new contour bender is designed for flexibility-well suited for greeting cards, profiles and other free-form shapes. Rule is cut to precision length on the ACS 100, then fed via a loading cartridge into the contour bender for free-form, irregular shapes. Reportedly, this module does not require the die board to be completed before cutting and shaping the rule.

The Aquajet Using a digital template matched to the die, the rubber is reportedly cut in minutes even without the die board present, which keeps the process flowing. With the Aquajet, the operator can control the standoff distance to the rule and cut a variety of different materials.

Counterplate Production Elcede has two counter-cutters, the new NCP-160-4S and the NCC 107. The NCP-160-4S is designed to be a sample-maker, counter-cutter and plotter all in one. Introduced last year, this machine has nine tools loaded on its head to allow for changing functions quickly without attachments. The NCC 107 is designed for high counterplate output, pairing a heavy-duty, five- spindle milling head with the vectocut/PC control system.

Self-Aligning Matrix and Pertinex Elcede offers a one-hour quoting system and same-day shipping for both matrix and pertinex counter material for orders received by 3p.m. EST. Pertinex is supplied in 42-in. x 42-in. sheets and 12 thicknesses from 0.4 mm to 1 mm. Matrix is stocked in more than 100 styles and sizes, plus many product variations. For more information, call (800) 237-2592.

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