Vinyl plotter blades are typically made of cemented carbide and come in different angles (30°, 45°, and 60°) to accommodate various cutting needs. The angle determines the blade's suitability for different materials and design complexities. Common specifications include blade length, diameter, and offset, with 45° being the most versatile angle for general use.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Material:
Cemented Carbide: This is the most common material for vinyl plotter blades due to its hardness, wear resistance, and ability to hold a sharp edge.
Angles:
30°:
Used for cutting very thin materials like window tint and mylar, as well as fabrics, thin cardboard, and leather.
45°:
The most versatile angle, suitable for general-purpose cutting of vinyl and other standard materials.
60°:
Used for cutting thicker materials like reflective vinyl, glitter vinyl, flock, and stencil materials, as well as for intricate designs with fine details.
Other Specifications:
Blade Length: Typically around 22-24mm.
Blade Diameter: Usually around 1.5-2mm.
Offset: Refers to the distance from the tip of the blade to the center of the blade holder. This is important for accurate cutting depth.
Compatibility: Blades are often designed to be compatible with specific brands of cutters, such as Roland, Mimaki, or Graphtec.
Choosing the Right Blade:
Material Thickness: Thicker materials require steeper blade angles (e.g., 60°), while thinner materials can be cut with shallower angles (e.g., 30°).
Design Complexity: More intricate designs with fine details may benefit from a 60° blade.
General Use: A 45° blade is a good starting point for most vinyl cutting tasks.
