Role of Sample Preparation & Commonly Used Sample Cutters

Sample preparation is the first thing that any user would do before conducting a paper or packaging test. All that is made sure by the user that the sample is cut,

• In the most accurate manner.
• In the desired shape for the test.
• Using the right instrument.
• With utmost safety.
• To offer effective performance of the test.
• To cater to repeated cycles if required.

To prepare these samples, users commonly make use of a sample strip cutter. While some cutters are diverse and can be used to prepare samples for different tests, some cutters are specific to certain tests. The selection is done based on the following factors.

Factors affecting the selection of sample preparation cutters

The selection of the sample cutter depends on the following key factors:

• The type of test being performed.
• Type of materials (paper, plastic, paperboard, fabric, etc.) being cut and prepared for the test.
• Required dimensions of the sample for the test. 
• Ease of cutting and preparing required. 
• The extent of accuracy required. 

Based on the usage, the following two types of sample cutters are used in the paper testing processes. 

1. Sample Strip Cutter

The sample strip cutter is a precision cutter, designed to perform paper tests with high accuracy and great speed. Samples for ring crush, ply bond, folding endurance, short-span compression test, and similar tests are prepared using UEC’s sample strip cutter. 

The cutter enables damage-free sample preparation. The sample does not deform during the test. Both paper and paperboard samples can be formed using this high-accuracy cutter.

2. Punch and Die Cutter

UEC’s punch and die cutter is an excellent cutter, that conveniently prepares samples at great speed and with high accuracy. The specimen doesn’t break or deform at the time of preparation as well as test. The size of the specimen prepared using this cutter is 100 cm² in area.

Besides, the paper, the punch and die cutter is also capable of preparing samples of tissue. Multiple samples can be cut in a given time period, with the help of adjustable punching cycles. When used with the GSM testing machine, the cutter determines the basis weight of the sample or GSM in the paper machines. 

Wrapping Up

So, these were the two commonly used sample cutters by paper manufacturers. For effective, non-deformed, and accurate cutting of samples for other varied tests, check out more sample cutters by UEC. Visit the website uecin.com.