My guillotine is cutting poorly

[LoneGoose]

Oh yeah, of course it does, that's a good point!

It was just at the suggestion of switching the power off (always a good idea when fiddling around inside the guillotine) when the blade was down that that response came to mind.

Nicolas

[Alex@Challenge]

the smaller electric cutters do not have adjustable knife bar gibs.

If the above-mentioned points do not resolve (sharp blade, proper clamping pressure, too thick material) your issues, then it may be that your cutter is plain worn out. It could be due to lack of greasing or just plain old wear.

Another thing to keep in mind - the smaller electric cutters are more of a 'trimmer' than a 'cutter' - don't expect the performance of a $30,000 cutter from a $4,000 cutter.

[GWSALES]

Hello
What kind of stock are you cutting, also trying putting in a smaller amount in your lift.
I had the same problem, These cutters are known for that.
Also try putting the lift in the center not off to the right or the left after you jog it.
Good Luck
Rob in VA

Great response!

Assuming your knife guides are not worn what you are experiencing is called "blade draw". Your cutter has limited clamp pressure. Even if you feel your over tightening the spin wheel it still may not be enough pressure. The smaller the sheet size the more pressure is needed on the clamp. Cut in the center with thinner stacks and make sure your blade is sharp. The MBM cutters are great and very realiable for the price, just not intended to cut thick stacks.

James

[Alex@Challenge]

Actually James, the smaller the stack (cutting width) the greater the clamping force due to surface area.

To the OP...take a look at the points mentioned previously. If you find yourself with a tired cutter, now is the time to buy. When you get ready to make that decision, take into consideration not only price but maintenance requirements, safety features, future resale value, and local technical support.

If you have any other questions, I'm sure there are plenty of people here that would be willing to help! Just remember to keep an open mind...but not so open that your brains fall out!

-Alex

[BillJ]

Another very common issue on those cutters is for the arms and screw that drive the clamps wear out causing inconsistent clamp pressure. I used to work on them and replaced many of them. Also make sure the blade isn't too short from over sharpening.

As Alex said, that cutter isn't the same as a "real" cutter. Once they wear out you can't replace wear parts or adjust like you can on a higher end model.

[robbg439]

Thanks guys, for all the help.

Yes, there was quite a bit of play in the knife holder when it was at the bottom of the cut, and none at the top. There's 2 bolts whose job it seems is squeezing the sides of the knife guides together, and I tightened these a little bit, just enough to make the holder not jiggle but not tight enough to cause TOO MUCH friction and wear on the guides. It may yet live to cut another sandwich.

Haven't y'all ever heard, its not the size of your cutter.....

[vaithi47]

if the angle of the bevel of the knife is wrong you get this kind of variations.for cutting paper/board it has to be 22/23 degrees.pl check