In the packaging industry, slitting circular blades are indispensable for corrugated cardboard processing. However, many enterprises encounter the problem of rapid blade wear and low durability during production. These issues not only increase production costs but also undermine production efficiency and product quality. As a specialized supplier of carbide products, we have delved into these industry pain points and combined our extensive technical experience to present practical solutions for effectively addressing the rapid wear of corrugated cardboard slitting circular blades.
I. Inappropriate Tool Material Selection: The Primary Culprit
The performance of tool materials directly determines their service life. Slitting circular blades made from ordinary steel possess limited hardness and wear resistance. During frequent corrugated cardboard cutting, the blade edges are highly susceptible to abrasion, leading to accelerated consumption. In contrast, carbide materials, renowned for their high hardness, superior wear resistance, and excellent heat resistance, emerge as the ideal choice for corrugated cardboard slitting.
Take our ultra – fine grain carbide as an example. Its unique microstructure significantly enhances the blade’s hardness, enabling it to withstand greater cutting forces and frictional resistance during corrugated cardboard cutting. This notably reduces the wear rate. Compared with ordinary blades, slitting circular blades made from ultra – fine grain carbide can extend tool life by 2 to 3 times, effectively minimizing replacement frequency and cutting production costs.
Moreover, the proper ratio of cobalt content in carbide is crucial. An appropriate increase in cobalt content enhances the blade’s toughness, preventing edge chipping during cutting and further improving durability.
II. Optimize Cutting Process Parameters
(1) Adjust Cutting Speed
Excessive cutting speed is a common factor contributing to accelerated tool wear. High cutting speeds intensify the friction between the blade and corrugated cardboard, generating a large amount of heat and accelerating tool wear. Through numerous experiments, it has been verified that corresponding optimal cutting speeds should be matched for different flute types of corrugated cardboard. For example, when cutting A – flute corrugated cardboard, the speed should be controlled at 80 – 100 meters per minute; when cutting C – flute corrugated cardboard, the speed can be adjusted to 100 – 120 meters per minute. This can not only ensure production efficiency but also effectively extend the service life of the tool.
(2) Control Feed Rate
An excessively large feed rate also increases the load on the tool, accelerating wear. It is crucial to control the feed rate based on the thickness and hardness of the corrugated cardboard. Generally, for conventional corrugated cardboard with a thickness of 3 – 5 millimeters, a feed rate of 0.1 – 0.2 millimeters per revolution is recommended. Additionally, maintaining a stable feed rate and avoiding fluctuations helps reduce abnormal tool wear.
(3) Improve Cooling and Lubrication Conditions
Heat generated during cutting, if not dissipated promptly, can raise the tool temperature and degrade its performance. Installing a spray cooling device on the equipment to spray coolant onto the blade during cutting effectively reduces the tool temperature and minimizes thermal wear. Furthermore, using high – quality lubricants to form a lubricating film on the tool surface reduces friction, providing additional protection and extending the tool’s service life.
III. Standardize Tool Installation and Routine Maintenance
(1) Install Tools Correctly
Incorrect tool installation can lead to uneven force distribution during cutting, accelerating tool wear. During installation, ensure the concentricity between the blade and the arbor, keeping the error within a minimal range. Also, the tightening force of the blade should be appropriate; too loose will cause the blade to wobble, while too tight may damage the blade or arbor. It is advisable to use professional installation tools and equipment and follow the operation manual strictly.
(2) Conduct Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Establish a comprehensive tool inspection system and regularly check slitting circular blades. Use a microscope to observe the wear condition of the blade edge. Once minor notches or wear are detected, perform sharpening promptly. Additionally, regularly clean impurities such as paper scraps and glue adhering to the tool surface to keep the tool clean and prevent these contaminants from exacerbating tool wear.
IV. Select High – Quality Equipment and Supporting Facilities
The stability and precision of cutting equipment significantly impact tool life. Well – performing equipment ensures smooth cutting processes, reducing tool vibrations and impacts. Choosing slitting equipment with high – precision spindles and stable transmission systems can effectively reduce abnormal tool wear. Additionally, equipping the machine with an automatic deviation correction device ensures that corrugated cardboard runs straight during cutting, preventing uneven force on the blade caused by cardboard misalignment.
Moreover, the quality of auxiliary facilities should not be overlooked. For instance, high – quality paper pressing wheels can better secure corrugated cardboard, minimizing movement and shaking during cutting and thus protecting the blade.
The issues of rapid wear and low durability of corrugated cardboard slitting circular blades can be resolved through multiple approaches, including selecting suitable tool materials, optimizing cutting process parameters, standardizing installation and maintenance, and choosing quality equipment. Our carbide slitting circular blades and related solutions have been proven effective in numerous packaging enterprises, which can truly help you reduce costs and improve production efficiency. If you encounter any other issues during tool usage, please feel free to contact us. We are committed to providing professional technical support.