Many printers start with manual paper cutting machines because they are more affordable. But there comes a point where sticking with manual machines actually hinders business growth. Here are the signs.
Main differences
Manual cutting machines rely on the operator's hand to press the blade — suitable for low volumes and limited paper thickness. The hydraulic machine uses hydraulic pressure to cut, is able to handle thicker stacks of paper with much less effort, as well as more precise and consistent cutting results.
Signs that it's time to upgrade
- Operator fatigue during peak hours — if your staff starts complaining of sore hands from cutting through thick stacks multiple times a day.
- Cuts start to become imprecise — human hand pressure is difficult to be consistent throughout the day; hydraulics maintain the same pressure in each cut.
- Customer queues pile up — hydraulic machines cut thicker stacks at once.
- Start accepting large volume orders — such as printing books or documents in quantities of hundreds to thousands of sheets.
Additional features to note
Modern hydraulic machines are generally also equipped with safety sensors (photoelectronics) that stop the machine automatically if there is a hand in the knife area, as well as a touch screen for precise cut size settings.
