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Application-driven tooling

Slug removal solutions

Pair the right eject technology with your die build. MRD engineers qualify stripping, air, and vacuum systems so parts release cleanly regardless of liner, adhesive, or part geometry.

Slug removal

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Stripping pin

Mechanical pins timed to the die that push slugs away from the cutting cavity.

Thick liners High parts-per-rev tooling
  • Precision-ground pins mount through the die body or backup plate.
  • Ideal when positive mechanical ejection is required without air.
  • Pins can be removable for service.

Slug removal

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Pulse air

Timed bursts of air eject slugs before they can reattach to the web.

Wide webs Adhesive-heavy constructions
  • Mechanical manifold valving keeps pulses synchronized to the press repeat; no encoder required.
  • Simple retrofit for existing lines with shop air available.
  • Pairs well with vacuum collection systems to capture debris.

Slug removal

Pin eject

Spring-loaded pins integrated into the die cavity release material on exit.

Small cavities Tight tolerance parts
  • Pins reside below the cutting surface until the die clears the substrate.
  • Common on medical parts where debris control is critical.
  • Available in stainless or tool steel tips depending on wear.

Slug removal

Vacuum

Vacuum manifolds capture slugs and carry them away from the die zone.

Continuous slug removal Simple slug removal
  • Self Contained and easy to clear.
  • Connects to plant vacuum or a dedicated collector for uninterrupted removal.
  • Often paired with pulse air for flawless release on coated liners.

Slug removal

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Vacuum transfer

Transfers slugs or finished parts across a vacuum rail to keep die stations clear.

Long transfer distances High volume part collection
  • Manifold has both air and vacuum to hold part until desired removalable position.
  • Ideal when parts need to be carried away from the cutting station for inspection or packaging.
  • Pairs with air or pulse eject systems for complete part control.

Slug removal

Spring plunger

Compact plungers provide constant upward force to lift parts as soon as the cut finishes.

Short runs Rapid changeovers
  • Plungers swap quickly without disassembling the die body.
  • Useful on prototype programs when eject requirements are evolving.
  • Multiple force ratings available for delicate or rigid materials.

Slug removal

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Air eject

Constant low-pressure air stream assists in part release on delicate liners.

Low durometer liners High speed work
  • Less aggressive than pulse air; maintains a steady cushion at the die cavity.
  • The air probe is fed through the die journal.
  • Often for smaller diameter tooling.

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Need help picking an eject style?

Send your dieline, liner, and target speeds—MRD engineering will recommend the right combination.

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Decision FAQ

Slug removal questions teams ask before ordering

Straight answers on when to use air, vacuum, pins, and transfer systems in rotary die cutting.

What is slug removal in rotary die cutting?

Slug removal is the controlled ejection or transfer of waste matrix material away from the die station so adhesive, liner, and finished parts do not foul the cutting process.

When are stripping pins the best choice?

Stripping pins are a strong option when a job needs positive mechanical ejection, especially on thick liners or high parts-per-revolution tooling where simple air assist is not enough.

What is the difference between pulse air and standard air eject?

Pulse air uses timed bursts synchronized to the die repeat for stronger ejection events, while standard air eject uses a lower, continuous airflow to assist release on delicate liners or smaller tools.

When should vacuum or vacuum transfer be used?

Vacuum systems are useful when slugs or finished parts must be continuously captured and moved away from the die zone, especially on high-volume work or jobs with longer transfer distances.

What inputs help determine the right slug-removal method?

The best inputs are part geometry, adhesive behavior, liner type, web speed, waste size, transfer distance, and whether the job needs simple ejection, debris collection, or full part handling control.