Since the 1940s, Colvin Friedman has been offering premium die-cutting and plastic die cutting services. We are experts in thermoplastics and synthetic polymers and can help you select the best material for your project. We commonly cut the following materials:
We are experts in die cutting PSAs, and generally specialize in the below component types:
We can aid in choosing a specific material for your component if one is not selected already. During our consultation process, we determine which PSA will work best for both your cost figures and desired functionality. Here are the common PSAs we utilize:
We can aid in choosing a specific material for your component if one is not selected already. During our consultation process, we determine which PSA will work best for both your cost figures and desired functionality. Here are the common PSAs we utilize:
Acrylic-based PSA
Rubber-based PSA
Silicone-based PSA
Hot melt PSA
Water-based PSA
Transfer Tape PSA
VHB (Very High Bond)
Removable PSA
Foam PSA
Conductive PSA
Electronics, Automotive
Construction, Packaging
Medical, Aerospace
Packaging, Product Assembly
Paper, Packaging
Various
Construction, Transportation
Various
Automotive, Construction
Electronics
Circuit board mounting, Panel bonding
Insulation attachment, Carton sealing
Medical device assembly, High-temp gaskets
Label application, Product assembly
Label stock, Envelope sealing
Bonding dissimilar materials, Thin film applications
Metal fabrication, Panel bonding
Temporary signage, Protective films
Gasketing, Sound dampening
EMI/RFI shielding, Grounding applications
4
3
5
3
2
4
5
1
3
3
Strength Rating Key: 1 – Very Low (easily removable) 2 – Low 3 – Medium 4 – High 5 – Very High (permanent bonding)
However, at Colvin-Friedman, we’ll show, rather than tell, what applications make the most sense. When it comes to pressure-sensitive adhesives, we’ve compared the following projects against each of the major types of cutting so that you can best understand whether die cutting makes sense for your project.
Or call Josh at (707) 769-4488
When it comes to pressure-sensitive adhesives, we’ve compared the following projects against each of the major types of cutting so that you can best understand whether die cutting makes sense for your project:
High-volume production of adhesive labels
Thick foam gaskets
Intricate patterns on thin films
Large format signage
Medical adhesive patches
Automotive interior trim
Electronic component gaskets
Adhesive-backed rubber seals
Custom shape stickers
Fabric/textile adhesive products
Printed circuit board (PCB) masks
Industrial strength tapes
Packaging inserts
Adhesive-backed foam insulation
Reusable adhesive products
✅ Ideal
✅ Ideal
✅ Good
✅ Ideal for high volume
✅ Ideal
✅ Ideal
✅ Ideal
✅ Ideal
✅ Ideal for high volume
✅ Ideal
✅ Good
✅ Ideal
✅ Ideal for high volume
✅ Ideal
✅ Ideal
❌ Too slow
❌ Limited thickness
✅ Excellent
⚠️ Good for low volume
⚠️ May affect adhesive
⚠️ Limited by material
⚠️ May affect properties
❌ May damage material
⚠️ Good for low volume
⚠️ May singe edges
✅ Excellent
❌ May affect adhesive
⚠️ Good for prototypes
❌ Limited thickness
⚠️ May affect adhesive
❌ Too slow
✅ Possible but slow
❌ May damage material
⚠️ Possible but slow
❌ Not suitable
⚠️ Possible but slow
✅ Good for prototypes
⚠️ Possible but slow
❌ Not cost-effective
❌ May damage material
❌ Not suitable
⚠️ Possible but slow
❌ Too slow
⚠️ Possible but messy
❌ May affect adhesive
⚠️ Possible but slower
⚠️ Possible but slow
⚠️ Possible but less precise
✅ Good for low volume
⚠️ Possible but slower
⚠️ Possible but slower
⚠️ Possible but less precise
⚠️ Possible but less clean
⚠️ Good for low volume
✅ Good alternative
⚠️ Possible but less precise
⚠️ Possible but less clean
✅ Good for low volume
⚠️ Possible but slower
✅ Good alternative
Note: This table provides general guidance. Please contact Colvin Friedman for a quote on your project.
Or call Josh at (707) 769-4488
Polyvinyl Chloride is one of the most commonly produced plastics in the world. It is highly versatile and comes in both flexible and more rigid varieties. In its primary form it is white and brittle. More flexible varieties are better suited to Rotary Die Cutting, while all can be cut with flatbed die cutting. The most common varieties of Polypropylene include:
Adhesive Bleed During Cutting
To prevent adhesive bleed, maintain optimal die temperature and pressure. Use chill rolls or cooling systems to keep dies at the right temperature, typically between 60-70°F (15-21°C). Ensure die pressure is precisely calibrated – too much pressure can cause bleed, while too little results in incomplete cuts.
Inconsistent Cut Depth on Liner
Achieving consistent cut depth is crucial for easy product removal without damaging the liner. We implement a multi-step approach: First, we design and use high-quality, precision-ground dies and regularly check for wear. We also regularly measure and record cut depths using a microscope or digital depth gauge. For multi-layer materials, experiment with different blade angles and pressures to find the optimal configuration for each specific PSA product.
Material Waste and Inefficient Layouts
We minimize waste through strategic planning and nesting software to optimize material usage, arranging parts efficiently on the sheet. Even leftover pieces are scavenged for testing.
Static Buildup During Cutting
Static electricity can cause misalignment and quality issues. We work to combat this by maintaining proper humidity levels in your production area, ideally between 45-55% relative humidity. We also perform regular testing with a static meter can help identify problem areas before they affect production.
Ensuring Clean Edges and Preventing Tearing
Clean edges are crucial for both aesthetics and functionality. We start with selecting the dies that are appropriate for the PSA in question and perform regular inspections. Since cut speeds have to be weighed against production timelines, we both test and re-test to ensure that cuts are within tolerances and orders meet deadlines.
Or call Josh at (707) 769-4488
As with any manufacturing or production process, Colvin-Friedman spends more time ensuring details are ironed out (no pun intended) before a production run than during. We know that when it comes to die cutting, prior preparation will pay dividends, which is why actual production is step four of six in our process. When you work with us, we complete each of these steps:
We begin by thoroughly discussing your project requirements, material specifications, and desired outcomes. Our experts will analyze your needs, offer suggestions for optimization, and provide initial cost estimates
Our skilled team creates custom die designs tailored to your specific requirements. We use advanced CAD software to optimize material usage and ensure precision. Before moving to full production, we produce prototypes for your approval, allowing you to test the fit, form, and function of your die-cut adhesives.
Our experienced technicians configure our state-of-the-art die cutting equipment for your specific job. This includes setting up the custom dies, adjusting cutting pressures, and fine-tuning feed rates to achieve optimal results. We also conduct test runs to ensure everything is perfectly calibrated before beginning full production.
We are in constant contact with customers like you throughout the production process. This includes updates on regular inspections of die-cut parts, dimensional checks, and adhesive performance tests. Our quality assurance team uses advanced measurement tools and follows strict protocols to ensure every piece meets our high standards and your exact specifications.
Once done, our experienced team can easily work with most inventory management solutions on the market to ensure that we’re not just a supplier, but an integral part of your production system.
As one of the leading American die-cutting experts, Colvin-Friedman has been committed to quality since being a part of the first electronics in the 1940s. Let us bring our attention to detail and commitment to quality to your project, ensuring that it meets your most exacting standards. Contact us today for a complimentary quote on whatever need you have for die cutting for pressure-sensitive adhesives.
Or call Josh at (707) 769-4488
If you would like more information about our custom metal die-cutting services, process, or product capabilities, please use the number below to call our Vice President, Josh Rodman. If you would like to receive a free project quote, click the button below.
Or call Josh at (707) 769-4488
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