How to set up a flat die shop
Introduction
Setting up a flat die shop goes beyond purchasing equipment—it’s about building a streamlined production system that ensures precision, speed, and reliability for packaging, printing, and label manufacturing.
With over 40 years of expertise, YITAI provides a complete One-Stop Die Making Solution, guiding you from facility planning to full production.
Step 1: Choose Flat Die Production
- Applications: Corrugated packaging, folding cartons, labels
- Substrates: Corrugated board, cardboard, film
- Best for: Medium- to large-run packaging jobs
- Pro Tip: Many companies start with flat dies, then expand into rotary dies as their business grows.
Step 2: Workshop Planning & Utilities
- Floor space: ~200–300 m²
- Power supply: Three-phase (380 V), minimum 100 kW
- Ventilation: Fume extraction systems (essential for laser cutting)
- Layout zones: Laser area, rule processing, assembly, QC, sample area, storage
👉 YITAI provides customized floor plans based on your available space and chosen equipment list.
Step 3: Complete Equipment Configuration
| Process | Equipment & Materials | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Die board laser cutting | Flat Laser Cutting Machine, Flat Plywood Die Board | Precision cutting of die board |
| Rule bending | Auto Rule Bending Machine, Flat Cutting Rules | Bends, cuts, bridges steel rules |
| Manual fine-tuning | Hand Bender, Grinders, Jig Saw, Other Tools | Final rule adjustments & assembly |
| Accessories | Ejection Rubber (flat, V-shape, wave), Creasing Matrix | Protects edges, assists creasing |
| Sample checking (optional) | Digital Sample Cutter | Creates accurate packaging samples |
👉 This setup covers the entire flat die making process—from die board cutting to finished die mold.
Step 4: Die-Making Consumables & Accessories
- Steel rules: Cutting, creasing, perforating
- Ejection rubber: Flat, wave, V-shaped
- Die boards: High-grade plywood
- Assembly tools: Rule holders, nails, adhesives
✔ Starter kits are available, bundled with equipment for immediate production.
Step 5: Operator Training & Startup Support
- Machine delivery & installation
- On-site or remote training
- Multilingual user manuals
- Sample files & die templates
- Ongoing support via video or hotline
👉 With YITAI’s training, your team can be production-ready in just days.
Step 6: Suggested Staffing Structure
| Role | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Laser technician | 1 | Operates flat laser cutting |
| Rule bending technician | 1 | Runs auto bender machine |
| Assembler | 1–2 | Installs rules & rubber |
| Supervisor | 1 | Oversees production & QC |
| Sales / support | Optional | Customer communication |
✔ A compact team of 4–6 people can run an efficient flat die shop.
Why Choose YITAI’s One-Stop Flat Die Solution?
- 40+ years of die-making expertise
- Complete flat die setup packages
- Customized workshop planning
- Training & installation support
- Reliable consumables supply chain
- Scalable solutions (starter kits → automation)
- Trusted by customers in 80+ countries worldwide
🔹 Ready to build your die shop?
Contact YITAI today for customized solutions that match your production goals.
