The Emergence of Laser Diecutting

Speed is another shortcoming of laser diecutters. "In long-run, standard pattern and substrate environments, a rotary diecutter will operate at higher speeds than a laser diecutter," Greenwood said.

The biggest drawback to laser systems, however, is its initial cost. "Generally speaking, a variable repeat lasercutter stand-alone [system] is around $200,000 for 25-60 fpm or $300,000 for 50-120 fpm (dual laser), and speed is totally determined by shape, of course," Bittner said.