It is testament to a machine's build quality that it's still considered a good-value purchase more than a decade after its launch. It was shortly after Baumann Group acquired Wohlenberg that the Cut-Tec guillotine range was born in 1996. The machine replaced the manufacturer's MCS-TV product range, which is still available secondhand.
The range was available in six cutting widths: 760mm (Cut-Tec 76), 920mm (92), 1,150mm (115), 1370mm (137),
1,550mm (155) and 1,850mm (185). Features included a positioning system that maintained the quality of the cut using a frequency control drive motor. The Cut-Tec also had a speedy back gauge to get the paper in position quickly.
Also incorporated was an infrared safety beam with an additional light barrier. This meant that only the front of the guillotine needed to be monitored. A centrally positioned clamping cylinder also eliminated any possibility of uneven clamp pressure. The Cut-Tec's frame was manufactured as a one-piece cast to ensure strength and rigidity. A cheaper fibre-glass cabinet was used on the older MCS-TV, which was replaced by a steel cabinet on the Cut-Tec.
More automation
By 2006, the 115 and 137 models were replaced with the Pro-Tec range. "Wohlenberg's latest range of guillotines have been developed with even higher levels of automation," says Roger Cartwright, director of finishing sales at Manroland, which distributes the range. "Virtually all the remaining mechanical controls are now accessed electronically via a wide touchscreen. All functions and parameters are visible, minimising the need for scrolling."
He adds: "Wohlenberg now employs an overhead lead-screw and so has a far more efficient air bed on the rear table as there is no compromise made with slot gap required for under-bed lead screws." Programmable and automatic clamping pressure for the cutting width is now also standard.
At launch, Cut-Tec was the first guillotine that could be controlled by a PC and was designed to work with CIP3 workflow, allowing it to network with other machines. New 155 and 185 Cut-Tecs, as well as new Pro-Tecs, are available with the Windows CE operating system for higher levels of reliability and no additional PC is required for the implementation of CIP3 and 4 data modules.
Manroland has a team of eight specialist finishing engineers, but also has a programme in place to train all of its engineers to attend a basic call-out on any of its machines.
"We encourage part-exchange of older guillotines of all vintages and makes," adds Cartwright. I would expect a reasonable condition later vintage Cut Tec 115 to fetch between £10,000 to £15,000, depending on condition and usage."
Independent dealer Premier Guillotine Systems (PGS) has sold used Cut-Tecs in the past. Sales director Peter Kennedy says that the Polar guillotines are more sought after than the Cut-Tec and demand for them has fallen.
According to Kennedy, a used 1996-1998 Cut-Tec 115 should sell for around £12,000 to £14,000. A 1998-2002 model will be worth around £14,000 to £16,000, while a used model from 2002 onwards will cost upwards of £16,000.
SPECIFICATIONS
Cutting widths 760mm, 920mm, 1,150mm, 1,370mm, 1,550mm, 1,850mm
Max pile height (paper cut) 165mm
Knife movement speed (155, 185) 42 cycles per minute
Smallest cut without additional clamp plate 155 = 33mm; 185 = 35mm
Dimensions Cut-Tec 155ptc 3x3m
Weight of machine frame 3.7 tonnes
Price
1996-1998 115: £12,000-£14,000
1998-2002 115: £14,000-£16,000
2002 onwards: £16,000 plus
What to look for
- Service history log
- Health and Safety certification
- Condition of hydraulic mechanisms
- Clutch and brake lining
