How to choose a format-cutting machine? Reviews of manufacturers

Performing complex cutting operations requires the use of special equipment. It can not be said that narrow-purpose installations are always characterized by high performance and accuracy of operation, but in each case a bias toward a particular functional characteristic is assumed. In some cases, emphasis is placed on figured cutting, in others - on processing blanks with non-standard dimensions, etc. In turn, a format-cutting machine is used in the production of furniture for sawing sheet materials. As a rule, this machine processes plywood, MDF, chipboard and laminated panels. Depending on the modification, it is also possible to cut plastic elements and even Plexiglas. In this case, there can be different cutting parameters - the operator is able to perform longitudinal, transverse and angular cutting operations.

Varieties of machines

There are horizontal and vertical machines of this type. In the first case, the supply of the blank is carried out by means of a carriage moving on the rollers. Fixation of this element is realized with the help of a transverse stop. Using the ruler, the wizard can control the accuracy of the operation. A slightly different working principle is realized by a vertical format-cutting machine, in which the saw system is formed by two disks - the main and the scoring. The double cutting unit is advantageous in that, after the completion of the work, there is practically no chipping.

Also, the equipment differs in size and, accordingly, the nature of the operational capabilities. The initial level is represented by light units of economy class, designed for functioning in incomplete shifts. The average category is allowed to work continuously for 8 hours a day. Heavy form-cutting machine is considered the most hardy and suitable for work in a two-shift mode. It should be noted that such models can process blanks in batches.

Selection by main characteristics

In the work with wood-chip sheets, the power parameter is not so important as the configuration of the cut. In this regard, it should be noted the main characteristic of such machines - the length of cutting. The carriage stroke is selected in accordance with the dimensions of the longest element. If trimming is assumed, then 1 m should be added to this value. In terms of the quality of the cut performed, a parameter such as the rotational speed is also important. Usually, saws for format-cutting machines are adjusted to a certain speed, therefore, for servicing materials with different characteristics, it is desirable to initially orientate to units with wide adjustment possibilities.

It has already been noted that power capacity has no special significance, but if it is a matter of choosing equipment for large-scale production, then capacity can be the main criterion. So, versions of 3-4 kW are suitable for working with soft rocks, and machines for 5 kW and more are suitable for batch cutting. By the way, a powerful format-cutting machine in some versions is also able to work with solid wood grades.

Constructional parameters - what to consider?

From the point of view of operation, two elements of the machine - the carriage and the table - are important. The first component is responsible for the supply of material. Ball slides are used in inexpensive machines, can self-clean and remove dust, but require regular lubrication. Practically no need for maintenance roller carriages, but they are more often used in expensive models. The parameters of the table are no less important, since the support of the workpiece over the entire area increases the probability of forming an accurate and even cut. But this does not mean that one should only apply to modifications with large canvases. In models with extendable parts, it is planned to adjust the format-cutting machine to the size of the functional zone, which allows working with small narrow panels and large-format slabs. But, similar versions are also not cheap.

Feedback on HighPoint models

The manufacturer produces reliable and functional machines, oriented to the needs of professionals. But, as noted by users, and in everyday tasks, the unit of this brand may come in handy. By the degree of ergonomics and convenience, HighPoint products can be considered as advanced. There are other advantages that the professional format-cutting machine has - 3200 mm in the length of the saw, soft carriage stroke, long holding of the basic settings and high-quality work of the cutting elements.

Model Reviews Proma

This is a rare case when professional equipment is inexpensive and at the same time provides a really high class of processing. The products of this brand are praised by the heads of furniture factories, and by private users. In both cases, the owners note both ergonomic advantages and quality cuts, which leaves a format-cutting machine. Feedback on the performance of this unit is not so unambiguous, although the model is positioned just like a professional one. With regard to the possibilities of batch processing, the opinions of users are very reserved. Therefore, we can conclude that the machines are rather designed for high-quality, but small-scale cutting.

Comments for Altesa Tekna models

Models of this brand are quite common in the production of cabinet furniture. According to users, vertical designs, in which two saws are used, provide a particularly qualitative result. Even sensitive to mechanical influences laminated surfaces are processed without chipping. But there are also disadvantages that the Italian format-cutting machine possesses. The reviews note that with all the possibilities for adjusting the parameters of the cut, the mechanisms for feeding and orienting the material allow some errors. True, this applies to cases where blanks are used that do not match the characteristics of the table and the carriage.

Conclusion

Usually wood processing equipment is not associated with new technologies and the development of ergonomics. However, the modern format-cutting machine demonstrates the reverse example. The latest models are not only comfortable in operation and high power, but also the availability of electronic systems. Digital control, in particular, contributes to the precise performance of complex cuts. The most advanced modifications allow you to program the settings of the saw. These and other additions significantly save the user's time and, at the same time, provide a high-quality result of the cutting of wood material.