At RH Nuttall Limited, we offer Digital Cutting Table (DCT) gasket options to our customers. A DCT is a large steel table-based machine where gasket material is placed. Computer-generated designs based on customer drawings are uploaded via CAD/CAM integration software. A cutting knife is attached to a moving arm mounted on the steel table, and the shape of the drawing is then precisely cut from the base material.
Digital Cutting Table technology allows for most of our base materials to be vacuumed to the table and cut with a variety of cutting knife technologies. Depending on the complexity of the gasket or washer, we have a selection of knives including oscillating knives, routers, and engravers. Each knife is selected to provide the best finish for a specific base material.
The digital cutting table process is quick, precise, and reliable. With speeds of up to 1200mm per second, gaskets are produced in industry-leading times. The operation is rapid, delivering highly accurate results with tolerances as low as 0.01mm.
Given the accuracy of the cutting knife, material waste is kept to an absolute minimum, making our gaskets cost-effective. High productivity ensures that the price per piece is kept low, allowing us to pass savings directly onto our customers.
A major advantage of digital cutting table technology is that bespoke tooling is not required. Instead, computer software reads the design drawings and produces gaskets through a knife cutting operation. This eliminates tooling costs and significantly speeds up lead times.
The software is designed to optimize material usage by calculating the best yield, often interlocking gaskets where appropriate. It plots and calculates the required quantity, seamlessly moving from one shape to the next. Once the first design is cut, the program continues until the required quantity is completed. The gaskets are then simply lifted off the table and placed into boxes ready for dispatch.
All gaskets manufactured via the digital cutting table undergo rigorous quality inspection prior to bulk production. In-process inspections and final part inspections are carried out, ensuring that ISO9001:2015 quality standards are followed and that the end user receives superior quality parts.
We keep a wide range of commonly used base materials for gaskets and washers in stock, enabling fast lead times for our customers. Common gasket runs include neoprene rubber gaskets, neoprene sponge gaskets, rubber washers, and cork gaskets.
Advantages of Digital Cutting Table for Washer and Gasket Manufacture:
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High Degree of Accuracy: Precise and accurate cutting technology with tolerances as tight as 0.01mm.
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No Tooling Costs: With a universal knife range, no bespoke tooling is required, resulting in cost savings for the end user.
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Fast Turnaround: Cutting-edge software allows for quick uploads of customer drawings into the machine, enabling rapid production of washers and gaskets.