The demands placed on rotary diecutting processes are constantly increasing. A wide variety of materials, increasing production speeds, and growing cost pressure call for systems that combine maximum precision with stability and flexibility.

As a manufacturer of high-quality diecutting tools, Wink Stanzwerkzeuge GmbH & Co. KG (Wink), which is based in Neuenhaus, Germany, develops solutions that increase efficiency and quality in the label and packaging industry. With the SmartGap, Wink offers an adjustable anvil system that sets new standards in precision, reliability, and future-proofing.

The SmartGap is based on a specially developed bearing and adjustment system that ensures exceptionally high stability during operation. The positioning is carried out in steps of 0.5 microns and can be individually adjusted on both sides of the cylinder – either at a standstill or during the running operation. This precise control enables the safe processing of particularly demanding film materials such as PET, which require the highest accuracy.

In addition, the SmartGap combines precision with flexibility: its stable construction allows for large working widths while ensuring process reliability so that consistent quality is guaranteed even at high production speeds. This is a decisive advantage, especially for applications involving high volumes and continuous operation.

Designed for varying requirements

The SmartGap is available in two versions that serve different application profiles:

SmartGap Advance: The basic version for reliable and precise gap adjustment.

SmartGap Touch: The digital version complies with Industry 4.0 standards and features modern control and operating functions. It enables the integration of additional features such as code scanning, process monitoring, and documentation, thereby supporting more efficient and transparent production processes.

A key feature of SmartGap is its innovative construction, which operates with almost no heat. The special adjustment system generates hardly any frictional heat, meaning that neither oil nor lubricants are required. This ensures a clean production environment, reduces maintenance costs, and increases machine availability.

Particularly noteworthy is the improved design of the sliding blocks. This further development significantly increases stability and at the same time reduces the diecutting pressure required. In practice, this not only means greater process reliability but also a noticeable extension of tool life.

Wide range of applications

The SmartGap is suitable for a wide range of applications – from classic label production and packaging solutions to the processing of special materials. Thanks to its high precision, it is particularly important for demanding materials such as thin PET substrates, which require especially accurate and consistent diecutting. It is also equally suitable for rotary and semi-rotary applications.

The ability to handle high production speeds in combination with large working widths makes the SmartGap an economically attractive solution for complex series production and applications with varying material requirements.

Future viability

Integrating SmartGap into existing production lines is straightforward. Especially the digital version, SmartGap Touch fits seamlessly into modern networked production environments and offers users advanced functions. By connecting to Industry 4.0 structures, digital production workflows become more efficient, transparent, and secure. This integration lays the foundation for continuous process optimization and makes SmartGap a future-proof solution for the increasing demands of modern diecutting applications.

With SmartGap, Wink has developed a system that combines maximum precision and stability with flexibility and digital expandability. Its improved design, precise positioning, low-maintenance operation, and suitability for demanding materials such as PET underscore its innovative character.

“This makes SmartGap a groundbreaking development for rotary diecutting processes and a crucial component for sustainable efficiency gains in industrial manufacturing,” the company states.