What a flexible magnetic die does on press
A flexible magnetic die is a thin, precision cut tool that mounts onto a magnetic cylinder for rotary label finishing. The die cuts the face stock while leaving the liner intact, which makes it ideal for roll work on narrow web and mid web presses. Because the tool is light and thin, changeovers are faster and handling is easier than with heavier solid tooling.
We make dies to the artwork and repeat size you supply, with clean cut profiles for labels, tags and sleeves where accuracy matters. The die body is manufactured for repeat use and stable performance under normal press speeds, even in busy production rooms where load shedding can interrupt shift planning and you need reliable setup once power returns.
Sizes, thickness options and common cutting styles
Flexible magnetic dies are supplied to suit the cylinder repeat and the press width. Typical tooling widths range from narrow label formats through to wider gang layouts, and the working thickness is matched to the magnetic cylinder specification. We supply single up and multi up layouts, plus stepped forms where the job needs it.
- Common sheet or web thicknesses: 0.45 mm to 0.50 mm, depending on the application
- Repeat sizes made to suit your magnetic cylinder, knife unit and press set-up
- Sharp or semi rounded edge profiles for paper, PP, PE and coated stocks
- Perforation, kiss cut and cut through options where the product allows it
- Nick placement for waste retention, stripping and matrix control
For converters in Germiston, Johannesburg and Pretoria we often supply dies for pressure sensitive labels, wine and beverage work, chemical labels and industrial product labels. In coastal areas such as Durban and Cape Town, we also take care to advise on storage and handling so the tools are not left in damp conditions for long periods.
Where flexible dies suit best
This tooling suits operations that change jobs often and need a lighter option for magnetic cylinder work. It is a practical choice for short to medium runs, repeat labels, seasonal packaging and urgent reprints where setup time affects turnaround. If your plant handles multiple SKUs daily, the reduced weight helps with handling and storage, and it keeps changeovers more manageable for operators.
- Self adhesive labels for retail, food and household products
- Industrial and logistics labels with variable sizes
- Promotional runs and repeat orders with the same artwork
- Converters who need lower tooling mass for easier press handling
Flexible magnetic dies are also useful where a customer needs predictable cutting without moving to a heavier die system. They work well on a press line that is already set up for magnetic cylinders and does not need extra gas or special utilities beyond the press itself.
Installation, press setup and utility requirements
Flexible magnetic dies fit onto the correct magnetic cylinder and are secured by the magnetic pull across the cylinder face. The cylinder must match the repeat and width of the die, and the press should be set for proper impression, bearer contact and web tracking before production starts. On a good setup the die runs cleanly with minimal waste and little need for rework.
No dedicated power supply or gas line is needed for the die itself. The requirement is the press, the cylinder and a competent operator who understands impression, web tension and matrix removal. If your site experiences power interruptions, it helps to keep set-up notes and repeat references on hand so the job can be restarted without guesswork.
- Check cylinder repeat before ordering
- Confirm web direction and unwind orientation
- Set impression gradually to avoid cutting into the liner
- Keep the die and cylinder face clean of adhesive dust and slitter debris
Care, cleaning and when to send the die back
Like any precision cutting tool, a flexible magnetic die lasts longer when it is kept clean dry and stored flat. Wipe off adhesive build-up, label stock dust and loose fibre after use. Do not leave the tool exposed to moisture, especially in coastal humidity or in open stores where condensation can form overnight. A light protective coating can help if the die is kept out of service for a while.
Send the die back for inspection if you start to see poor kiss depth, broken corners, excessive burr, or if the cut begins drifting out of register. We can assist with die regrind, repeat matching and press trial support where needed. If the job is urgent, our team can assess whether a remake or minor correction is the quickest route.
What to send us when you order
Cylinder repeat, liner and label shape at order stage match the die to your press and stock. Please include your artwork, repeat, press details and the material you are running. If you have an existing die or cylinder, a clear photo and measurements help us confirm the setup before manufacture starts.
- Artwork or final cut line in the correct format
- Finished label size, repeat and number across
- Substrate type, thickness and adhesive details if known
- Magnetic cylinder size, repeat and press model details
- Whether you need kiss cut, perforation, cut through or nicking
- Delivery area and urgency, especially for Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Gqeberha or Pretoria
Our Wadeville, Germiston team handles die design, CAD proofing, packing and dispatch, with delivery coordination to major centres and surrounding industrial areas. That includes Germiston supply as well as deliveries into Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Pinetown, Cape Town, Bellville and Gqeberha.
Key facts
| Product type | Flexible magnetic die for label converting |
|---|---|
| Mounting | Fits compatible magnetic cylinders |
| Typical thickness | 0.45 mm to 0.50 mm |
| Cut options | Kiss cut, perforation, cut through and nicked layouts |
| Suitable materials | Paper, coated stocks, PP, PE and similar label facestocks |
| Supply area | South Africa wide, including Gauteng, KZN, Western Cape and Eastern Cape |
