Die: Tools or devices used for imparting or cutting a desired shape, form or finish to or from a material. A device in converting machinery used for cutting only the face material of a pressure sensitive laminate or for punching out shapes from the entire laminate or any other material.
Die Cut: To cut labels with a die. A term used to describe a label formed by die cutting.
Die Cut Label: Pressure sensitive labels mounted on a release liner from which the matrix has been die cut and usually removed.
Die Cutting: The process of using dies or sharp steel rules to cut any shape for labels. Die cutting of the individual labels is very critical. Poor set-up of the die cutting equipment can also ruin many labels (poor spacing) throughout the roll. Although all the labels within the die are evenly spaced, each die progression can cause an uneven space between labels cut in the next progression set. A good die cut should cut the face stock and adhesive only, and NOT the liner material. If the die cuts into the liner, the liner will break, leaving a tell-tale smooth cut line on broken material.
Die Life: Mileage expected from a new die and that expected following a resharpening of a die.
Die Line(s): A hand drawn or computer generated layout of the die cut shape or shapes on a clear or matte finish acetate or Mylar. The image used on a proof to identify where the die will cut.
Dispenser: A device that feeds pressure sensitive labels, either manually or automatically, making then ready for application. It can serve as a package for the labels as well (dispenser box).
Dispensing Edge: A relatively sharp edge around which a backing material is pulled in order to dispense a pressure sensitive label from that backing. (I.E. peel blade, peel tip, spender plate)
Draw-Down: A method of roughly determining color shade by drawing down a small amount of ink with a Meyer rod.