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Everything You Need to Know About Laser converting.
die cutting labels with a laser machine
What you need to know about laser converting.
Digital laser die-cutting, also known as laser converting, complements or supplements modern digital printing (e.g. label production, advertising technology) and other contemporary manufacturing processes (e.g. leather and textile processing). It takes finishing to a new level.
You do not need time-consuming and cost-intensive production of cutting dies for the realization of unlimited shape variations - filigree motifs and small fonts. Laser die-cutting allows the production of unique pieces and also high quantities.
You cover new requirements with shorter lead times and flexible, efficient production. On the other hand, there are hardly any more creative limits for you. Expand your offer for potential customers.
What is laser converting?
Digital laser die-cutting is a finishing technique for cutting paper, cardboard, adhesive label film as well as acrylic, wood and textiles. Laser converting is used where conventional cutting reaches its limits. These are the finest filigree ornaments, all geometric figures, the die-cutting of e.g. stickers and labels and small lettering. The resulting products have a noble, high-quality appearance and are definitely something special for customers.
Laser converting is best used at the end of the production process to prevent damage to filigree materials such as paper.
Advantages of digital laser converting.
New standards for print service providers.
Innovative laser systems such as the GLS1400 were developed for digital print finishing to secure the future of print service providers through new standards and technology leadership. Whereas previously "only" printing itself was mainly done digitally, cutting is now also feasible digitally and complements the numerous advantages of digital printing. Print service providers can thus create new differentiation features and increase profitability in a highly competitive market.
Paper and cardboard processing
Digital laser die-cutting complements digital label production and customized digital printing on paper and board in general. It takes processing to a new level and adds value to printed products.
Unlimited shape variants - expanded product portfolio
Because it is laser technology - the laser cuts the contours - there is no need for time-consuming and costly production of cutting dies. The laser can create a myriad of shapes on different materials - for single pieces or long runs. Service providers in the printing, textile or advertising industries can expand the range and create new products.
Differentiation from the competition
By refining products, you offer your customers additional, high-quality products and thus differentiate yourself from the competition.
Which types of processing are interesting for digital printers?
Laser technology offers various options for finishing print products, such as die-cutting, cutting, marking or perforating. But printed products can also be individualized and refined by selective color changes or laser marking on the printing material.
![Custom label shapes](/static_processed/1189edd49f056444e8ee8ca3c26ccfae/custom-label-shapes.jpg?{"image":"https://backend.troteclaser.com/static/images/applications/label_converting/label-converting-laser-1.jpg","edits":{"resize":{"width":640,"fit":"cover"}}})
Laser converting (Laser-cut)
Laser die-cutting of filigree motifs, lettering and ornaments in different types of paper to enhance products.
Laser die-cutting sticker (Kiss-cut)
With the laser process "Kiss-cut" you can create labels or stickers very quickly. The Trotec materials TroLase Foil and TroLase Lights are particularly suitable for this. With this method, the upper adhesive film is cut. The backing film underneath remains completely intact and is only "kissed" by the laser beam but not cut through. This allows the label to be peeled off cleanly - manually or mechanically for long runs and in automated label application.
Perforate
Perforation is another application that can be carried out with laser systems. Already today, many applications in daily use are perforated with laser technology, especially in the area of "Easy Open" for packages. In the label sector, products are provided with perforations for a wide variety of reasons, be it for reasons of user-friendliness or security. Here, too, laser technology works flexibly and without tools. Even difficult microperforations can be implemented quickly with laser technology.
What can be laser die-cut?
Laser converting is a thermal separation process in which material is heated to such an extent that it melts or is completely vaporized in the process. The technology is applicable to:
- Paper
- Cardboard
- Acrylic glass
- MDF
- Plastics
- Leather
- Wood
What are the fields of application for laser die-cutting?
There are many areas of application allowing anyone with a laser system to develop their own ideas and collaborate with customers, through the examination and application of the laser technology as well as the materials and shapes.
We would like to show you a few fields of application.
Printers
- Labels for food, beverages, beauty and more. - Packaging, folding boxes, illustrated books, book covers and more.
Copy shops
Finishing of business cards, greeting cards, paper invitation cards, business reports.
Advertising technology
Advertising materials (such as brochure printing), flyers or high-quality packaging, acrylic letters, illuminated letters
Laser converting with different laser systems
Trotec offers different machines and systems in laser technology depending on the field of application and requirements.
Step-by-step instructions based on a concrete example
How to engrave and quickly use e.g. control labels with a Trotec Speedy 360 using the kiss-cut method, you can see in the step-by-step instructions.
For mass production of stickers or paper finishing as the final process, we recommend the use of our GSL1400 laser die-cutter.
GSL1400
- Quick and easy job preparation, intuitive user process,
- High productivity with up to 3 laser heads
- Perfect cut quality
- Up to 100 m/min for industrial use
- Round-the-clock operation
- Reliable workflow
The reliable workflow is reflected in both hardware and software. Tool-less die-cutting ensures consistent results and saves on tooling costs. The software can be integrated into existing workflows to automate operations, while allowing flexible customization of jobs. The ergonomics of the GSL1400 ensure fast loading, unloading and roll changing.
- Safety and security
The GSL1400's enclosed design and laser class 2 ensure that the laser user is optimally protected. No laser safety officer is required and the laser user is safe at all times.
