Printing United Expo 2024: The Evolution of Die Cutting in a Digital Age
Rob Weidhaas, Dave Mussi, Mars Chang, and Ken Cavicchi at Printing United Expo 2024.
Earlier this month, Die Cutting Advisors had the privilege of attending Printing United Expo in Las Vegas—a flagship event showcasing the latest in print technology. The show was bustling, and we were thrilled to see substantial interest in the large-format die cutter, an indication of the industry’s pressing need to keep up with the rapid advances in digital printing. Here are some key takeaways from our experience.
Meeting the Demand for Speed in Large-Format Digital Printing
With digital printing technology moving at breakneck speeds, finishing solutions need to keep pace. One conversation stood out with a customer who shared that despite their hesitancy over the last 20 years to invest in analog die-cutting technology, today’s demands simply required it. This shift is increasingly common; companies find that traditional digital cutting systems struggle to keep up with high-speed digital presses and single-pass printing. For some, analog die cutters have become essential to meet production speeds, manage floor space more efficiently, and reduce costs.
Why Analog Die Cutting is Making a Comeback
The high-precision clamshell die cutter is enjoying a resurgence. While it was commoditized during the late ’80s and ’90s with a flood of lower-cost options, the market has come full circle. Today’s businesses require robust, reliable finishing options that can handle heavy loads and meet the high-quality standards necessary for mass production in digital print finishing. The large-format clamshell die cutter, for example, occupies less space than digital cutting systems, often requiring one-third of the footprint and costing half as much. These efficiencies, paired with precision, make the clamshell die cutter a competitive option once again.
A Workhorse Across Industries
As the demand for screen and digital printing in various sectors grows, so too does the need for efficient die-cutting solutions. The clamshell die cutter continues to prove its versatility across applications, including label die-cutting, graphic overlays, and retail display graphics. For companies focused on high throughput in these areas, the clamshell die cutter remains the go-to choice—a durable solution in a rapidly evolving field.
Wrapping Up
Printing United 2023 underscored the role of trusted, time-tested technology in today’s fast-paced, high-tech landscape. Die Cutting Advisors is excited to continue supporting businesses that require reliable, efficient, and adaptable die-cutting solutions to stay competitive.
We look forward to fostering the partnerships we’ve initiated at the Expo and helping more businesses find the die-cutting solutions best suited for their needs.
Final Thoughts
For companies grappling with the challenges of digital print finishing, Die Cutting Advisors is here to help. Our expertise spans a range of applications, and we understand that no two businesses have identical needs. If you’re interested in exploring the most effective solutions for your operation, reach out to us at inquire@diecuttingadvisors.com.
