The Tooling Series provides an in-depth look at the various tools used in packaging production, specifically for cutting, stripping, and blanking processes. This series is designed for professionals involved in packaging manufacturing, offering insights into the precision and technical aspects required for producing high-quality packaging components. By mastering the principles behind these tools, learners can ensure greater efficiency, accuracy, and quality in their production processes, leading to high-quality packaging solutions.

Travis Moellers

Technical Manager

DFC Manufacturing Group

I have 20 years’ experience in the paperboard and packaging industry. Through my tenure I have held a variety of roles from helper on a die cutter to Finishing Manager. I enjoy through my position the ability to build partnerships with our customers and become the link from converting to successfully representing the Brand they are building. Ultimately once a package is made it is an advertising tool promoting the brands and products. It is important that that through the converting process the brand image and representation depict the image the company desires to represent. The ability to do this is the Value we strive to bring to the process.

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9.1 Tooling Overview - Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to explain the key components and processes involved in cutting and converting tools used in sheet-fed die cutters. They will understand the function of each tooling stage—cutting, stripping, and blanking—and gain insight into the tooling development process from design and laser cutting through die assembly and pre-make-ready. Students will also distinguish between in-house and outsourced tooling production.
9.1 Tooling Overview - Video Lesson
Open to view video.  |  3 minutes
Open to view video.  |  3 minutes This introductory lesson provides an overview of the tooling used in the production of folding cartons and other types of packaging. Students will gain an understanding of the essential role of tooling in achieving precision in cutting, creasing, and shaping materials. The overview covers the types of tools used, their purposes, and how they integrate with the larger manufacturing process.
9.1 Tooling Overview - Assessment
5 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  8/11 points to pass
5 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  8/11 points to pass
9.2 Cutting Tools - Learning Objectives
In this lesson, students will learn the complete process of die manufacturing, from interpreting customer design files to producing a finished die ready for carton production. They will explore the purpose of key die components, tooling techniques, and material considerations, along with how equipment and processes work together to ensure performance and accuracy on press.
9.2 Cutting Tools - Video Lesson
Open to view video.  |  15 minutes
Open to view video.  |  15 minutes In this lesson, students dive into the specific tools used for cutting materials in packaging production. Cutting tools are critical for creating precise, clean edges on various substrates, including paperboard and other packaging materials. This module covers the different types of cutting tools, such as dies and laser cutters, and explains how each tool is selected based on the material and packaging design requirements. Students will explore factors that affect cutting quality, such as tool sharpness, alignment, and material properties.
9.2 Cutting Tools - Assessment
5 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  8/10 points to pass
5 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  8/10 points to pass
9.3 Stripping and Blanking Tools - Learning Objectives
In this lesson, students will learn the functions and components of stripping and blanking tools in the carton converting process. They will understand how these tools remove waste and finished cartons efficiently, and how design features, materials, and manufacturing techniques impact performance.
9.3 Stripping and Blanking Tools - Video Lesson
Open to view video.  |  10 minutes
Open to view video.  |  10 minutes The final lesson focuses on stripping and blanking tools, which are used to remove excess material after the die-cutting process and to separate finished cartons from the surrounding waste. Learners will understand how stripping and blanking tools work in tandem with cutting tools to ensure smooth, clean edges and efficient material handling. This lesson highlights the importance of precision in stripping and blanking, especially in high-volume production environments where material waste and efficiency are key concerns.
9.3 Stripping and Blanking Tools - Assessment
5 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  8/10 points to pass
5 Questions  |  Unlimited attempts  |  8/10 points to pass