Introduction
This article provides an in-depth exploration of kiss cutting and its advantages.
You'll discover detailed information on various aspects including:
- What kiss cutting is
- Different types of kiss cutting machines
- Varieties of kiss cutting dies
- Applications of kiss cutting
- And much more...

Chapter One - Understanding Kiss Cutting
Kiss cutting involves precisely cutting through a material's top layers while leaving the bottom layer intact. The term "kiss" refers to the blade's gentle contact with the surface, creating just enough pressure to mark the material without penetrating the backing.

Kiss cutting machines create a peelable interface, allowing easy liner removal while keeping labels or stickers intact for application on various surfaces like packages or letters. These digital die-cutting machines precisely control cutting force. A common example is a sheet of multiple stickers with individual kiss cuts.
Chapter Two - Types of Kiss Cutting Machines
Kiss cutting is widely used for creating custom gaskets, adhesive labels, and protective pads that easily separate from their backing. This precision technique is crucial in industries like automotive, electronics, and medical devices where accurate cuts of adhesive materials are essential. Roll-form production enhances efficiency, similar to paper towel rolls, optimizing handling and reducing waste.
The adhesive liner is key in kiss cutting. The die cuts through the face material and adhesive but stops before the backing, ensuring easy liner removal. Dies come in various shapes and sizes, selected based on material type, thickness, and product requirements.
Kiss Cutting Machine Types
Different specialized machines perform kiss cutting, each suited to specific materials, volumes, and designs. Options include rotary, flatbed, laser, thermal, CNC routers, cutting tables, plotters, hydraulic/mechanical presses, and clamshell presses. Choosing the right technology ensures precision and quality for labels, gaskets, and foam components.
Rotary Die Cutting
Rotary die cutting uses cylindrical dies on rotary presses. Material feeds between the die and anvil, with the die pressing to create the cut. This fast process ensures consistent, aligned results, ideal for high-volume label production with tight registration and speed. Advanced models may include slitting or laminating functions.

Flatbed Cutting
Flatbed cutting employs steel rule dies in presses with feeders and cutting stations. The die presses down onto material supported by a counter plate, creating precise cuts. This method suits thicker materials like foam or rubber, especially for complex shapes or smaller runs.

Laser Die Cutting
Laser cutting uses programmed beams for precise, intricate cuts at controlled depths. This method produces clean edges without physical dies, reducing tooling costs and enabling quick design changes. It's ideal for prototypes or specialized applications like flexible circuits.

Thermal Die Cutting
Thermal cutting uses heat to shape heat-responsive materials without distortion. Magnesium alloy dies create detailed patterns, especially useful for medical or electronic components requiring clean, precise edges.

Cutting Table
Cutting tables use movable arms with various blades instead of fixed dies. Programmable controls direct precise cuts, making them suitable for vinyl, films, and adhesives, especially for prototypes or digital printing applications.


Plotter Kiss Cutting Machine
Plotter machines automatically cut materials from sheets or rolls, with designs uploaded digitally. They're versatile for custom stickers, labels, or signage, handling materials like vinyl or reflective tapes efficiently.

CNC Router
CNC routers with kiss cutting attachments execute precise cuts based on CAD designs. They're ideal for large-format projects or industrial applications requiring multi-material processing and high accuracy.

Hydraulic and Mechanical Press
These powerful presses handle tough materials with adjustable cutting depth. They're suitable for thick gaskets or specialty plastics, offering high throughput for automotive or aerospace applications.

Clamshell Kiss Cutting
Clamshell machines feature upper and lower sections that close to perform cuts. Adjustable for different materials, they're reliable for both small and large production runs requiring robust solutions.

Selecting the right kiss cutting machine depends on material properties, design complexity, production needs, and tolerances. Understanding each technology's strengths helps optimize production quality and efficiency. Consult experts for tailored solutions.
Chapter Three - Leading Kiss Cutting Machines
Kiss cutting machines are vital for producing precise adhesive products across industries like packaging, automotive, and electronics. They enable clean material separation while maintaining liner integrity, reducing waste. Below are top machine brands in the U.S. and Canada, highlighting key models and capabilities.
Brand: Delta ModTech
Model: Spectrum
The Spectrum offers modular precision for adhesive materials with servo-driven control. Its rapid changeover and advanced web handling make it ideal for high-volume label production.
Brand: Spartanics
Model: Finecut-Plus-Rotary
This rotary cutter delivers accuracy for vinyl and foams with real-time adjustments. It integrates well with digital workflows for labels or seals.
Brand: AB Graphic International
Model: Digicon Series 3
A digital finishing system with kiss cutting and optional lamination/embossing. Its intuitive interface suits label converters needing automation and scalability.
Brand: Trotec Laser
Model: SP Series
Laser cutters handle films and adhesives without tooling wear. The non-contact process is perfect for intricate designs or short runs in signage or electronics.
Brand: Grafisk Maskinfabrik (GM)
Model: GM E-Cut
A high-speed rotary cutter with servo