Consumables

Mechanically instead of manually – Simple blanking with the Marbach lightblanker

Friday 10. March 2023 - In the blanking process, individual packaging blanks are separated from each other after the die-cutting or stripping process. This process can be done manually or mechanically. Mechanical blanking has many advantages, making the use of a blanking tool profitable

The globally operating diemaker Marbach is a system supplier for all tools that a print shop needs for die-cutting packaging. In addition to die-cutting and stripping tools, Marbach also produces blanking tools.
In the blanking process, individual packaging blanks are separated from each other after the die-cutting or stripping process. This process can be done manually or mechanically. Mechanical blanking has many advantages, making the use of a blanking tool profitable even for simple layouts and short runs.
Blanking plays an important role in the efficient further processing of blanks in packaging production. If the blanks are not precisely separated and accurately stacked, it can have a negative impact on following processes. In addition, the productivity of a job increases with the use of a blanking station on a die-cutting machine. However, to be able to optimally use the blanking station, factors such as run length, layout of the blanks, material thickness and coating must be taken into account when selecting the right tool.
Bernhard Reisser, industry manager for paperboard at the Marbach Group: “The lightblanker offers an easy entry point into machine blanking. This modular blanking tool is impressive with regard to its flexibility. It consists of a base frame that is installed in the die-cutting machine and a job-specific separating grid that can be quickly and easily exchanged for each new job. With the lightblanker, it makes sense to separate blanks by machine for every job.”
Due to its low weight and quick-release fastener, the lightblanker can be installed and converted by a single person in just a few steps. Changing over to sheet delivery also needs very little time. In addition, the lightblanker is a comparatively inexpensive tool that still allows the user to benefit from the advantages of mechanical blanking. All this makes blanking with the lightblanker profitable even for short runs and simple layouts, since the tool costs are quickly amortized.
Reisser continues: “In blanking, the right tool is decisive for productivity and reliable further processing of blanks. Besides the lightblanker, Marbach also offers other blanking technologies for special requirements. We have highlighted all information around the optimal use of the blanking station in detail in our free whitepaper.”