Why Should Packaging Companies Make Dies In-House?
For packaging companies, cutting dies are an essential part of the production process.
Traditionally, many packaging manufacturers outsource die production to specialized die makers.
While outsourcing can be convenient, it can also create challenges when customers require faster delivery, frequent design changes, or urgent replacement dies.
Setting up an in-house steel rule die making department gives packaging companies greater control over their production process.
1. Shorter Lead Times
When dies are produced internally, packaging companies do not need to wait for an external die supplier to manufacture and deliver the die.
For urgent orders or repeat production, an in-house die-making department can significantly shorten the waiting time between receiving the design and starting die cutting.
2. Faster Response to Packaging Design Changes
Packaging designs are changing rapidly. New products, seasonal packaging, promotional campaigns, and customized orders may require new cutting dies or modifications to existing dies.
With in-house die making, companies can respond to these changes much faster without depending entirely on an external supplier.
3. Better Control Over Die Quality
Producing dies internally allows packaging companies to directly control the production process and inspect the die before it enters the production line.
Any problems with the cutting rule, plywood board, or die structure can be identified and adjusted more quickly.
4. Reduce Dependence on External Die Suppliers
For companies with a high volume of die-cutting orders, relying entirely on external die suppliers can create production bottlenecks.
An in-house die-making department provides greater independence and allows the packaging manufacturer to produce dies according to its own production schedule.
5. More Efficient for High-Volume Production
When a packaging company needs a large number of dies or frequently produces different packaging designs, bringing die production in-house can improve overall production efficiency.
With automated equipment such as a Plywood Laser Cutting Machine and Auto Bender Machine, plywood cutting and steel rule processing can be carried out efficiently within the company.
6. Build a More Flexible Production System
The goal of in-house die making is not simply to produce dies internally. It is about building a more flexible production system.
By combining CAD design, laser plywood cutting, automatic rule bending, manual assembly, packaging companies can establish a complete in-house die-making workflow and respond more quickly to changing market demands.
What Equipment Is Needed for In-House Die Making?
1.Plywood Laser Cutting Machine
The first essential machine is a plywood laser cutting machine, which replaces the traditional manual jigsaw cutting process.
The laser cutting machine automatically cuts the plywood die board according to the CAD drawing, providing higher cutting precision, more consistent quality, and improved production efficiency.
For packaging companies, ADEWO offers different configurations according to workshop size and production requirements:
ADW-1290 400W — 1200 × 900mm working area, compact and suitable for companies with limited workshop space.
ADW-LC400 / ADW-LC600 — 1200 × 1800mm standard working area, suitable for small, medium-sized, and professional die-making workshops.
2.Auto Bender Machine
The Auto Bender Machine is the core equipment for automatic steel rule processing.
Instead of manually measuring, bending, processing bridges, the machine can automatically process the rules according to the imported CAD drawing.
For most standard packaging and carton dies, the ABM-832A2 is a practical choice.
It supports 2pt and 3pt steel rules from 23.80–32mm and includes:
For more complex and high-end packaging dies, the ABM-832C2 Multi-Function Auto Bender Machine provides more advanced processing capabilities, including broaching and other specialized functions.
Related Articles:How to Choose the Right Automatic Rule Bending Machine for Die Making?
3.Supporting Manual Equipment
Even with automated equipment, some manual tools are still useful for die assembly, adjustment, maintenance, and special applications.
A basic supporting equipment list may include:
In-House Die Making: Customer Site Showcase
See how packaging companies are using ADEWO automated die-making equipment to build their own in-house die production departments.
FAQ
1.Do operators need previous CNC experience to operate an Auto Bender Machine?
No. ADEWO Auto Bender Machines are designed for user-friendly operation. Operators can import DXF or DWG drawings into the software without requiring complicated CNC programming.
2.Can ADEWO provide installation and training?
Yes. ADEWO can provide on-site installation and training.
ADEWO technicians have not only machine expertise but also practical die-making experience, allowing them to provide guidance on both equipment operation and die production.
3.Is it difficult for a packaging company to start in-house die making?
No. With the right equipment combination and technical support, packaging companies can gradually move from outsourced die production to in-house manufacturing.
A basic setup can start with a plywood laser cutting machine and an Auto Bender Machine.
4.Can we install the machines ourselves?
Yes. ADEWO machines are designed for easy installation, and customers can install the equipment by themselves according to the installation instructions and videos provided by ADEWO.
Our technical team can also provide remote guidance during the installation process if needed.