Rule height is not just a catalog value. It must be selected together with substrate thickness, carrier material, creasing needs and the pressure behavior of the press.
Substrate thickness comes first
Carton, label stock, corrugated board, gasket material and foam do not react to the blade in the same way. As thickness increases, cut depth and rebound behavior change.
- State the material and thickness clearly.
- Evaluate liner-backed materials separately.
- A sample part shortens the decision process.
Steel rule type changes the result
Cutting, creasing, perforation and controlled tear lines need different rule choices. The wrong rule may cause crushing, burrs or uncontrolled tearing.
- Separate cut and crease lines in the artwork.
- Choose perforation ratio by use case.
- Check tight turns against bending capability.
Press pressure and tolerance work together
Even a correct die can fail when press pressure is too high or too low. The goal is not only to cut, but also to make machine setup easier.
- Share the press type when possible.
- Mention whether setup time is critical.
- Note previous die behavior for repeat jobs.
What to send for quoting
The best quote package includes drawing, material, thickness, quantity, press type and any previous production issue. This keeps rule height selection from becoming guesswork.
- Attach PDF, AI or DXF files.
- Write thickness in mm or gsm.
- Mention special tolerances in the message.
Quick pre-quote check
When these details are clear, quoting and production discussion moves faster on WhatsApp.
- Is the file the final revision?
- Are material and quantity written?
- Are cut, crease and perforation separated?
- Is the deadline clear?