Drick DRK110-1 Cobb Absorbency Sampling Cutter

Overview

The Drick DRK110-1 Cobb Absorbency Sampling Cutter is a precision mechanical die-cutting instrument engineered for the standardized preparation of circular test specimens used in Cobb absorbency and grease resistance testing of paper and paperboard. Designed in strict accordance with ISO 535 (Determination of water absorption — Cobb method) and ASTM D3285 (Standard Test Method for Water Absorption of Paper and Paperboard), this cutter ensures geometrically accurate, edge-consistent φ125 mm discs—critical for minimizing inter-laboratory variability in absorbency measurements. Its robust cast-iron frame and hardened steel cutting die deliver long-term dimensional stability and repeatability under repeated manual actuation. Unlike hydraulic or pneumatic cutters, the DRK110-1 employs a lever-driven mechanical advantage system that guarantees consistent cutting force across the full thickness range (0.1–1.0 mm), eliminating shear distortion and burr formation on fibrous substrates.

Key Features

• Precision-machined φ125 ± 0.10 mm tungsten-carbide cutting die with surface-hardened anvil plate for extended service life and minimal edge deformation
• Manual lever mechanism calibrated to deliver uniform downward force—no external power source required, ensuring operational reliability in field labs and QC environments
• Tolerance-controlled specimen geometry: radial deviation ≤ ±0.2 mm per ISO/IEC 17025 calibration traceability requirements for sampling tools
• Stable base footprint (240 × 288 mm) and low center of gravity (435 mm height) minimize vibration-induced misalignment during high-volume sampling
• Ergonomic handle design with non-slip polymer grip reduces operator fatigue during repetitive use—validated for ≥500 cuts per shift in ISO 9001-certified packaging labs
• Integrated alignment guide and sample retention slot prevent lateral slippage during cutting, critical for maintaining perpendicularity on corrugated board laminates

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The DRK110-1 accommodates all standard paper and paperboard grades within the defined thickness envelope (0.1–1.0 mm), including kraft linerboard, bleached sulfate pulp sheets, coated folding boxboard, and unbleached sack paper. It is explicitly referenced in GB/T 1540–2002 (Chinese national standard for Cobb absorbency testing) and GB/T 5406–1985 (determination of grease resistance). The cutter’s geometry and force profile have been validated against ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.4.3 for sampling tool equivalence, confirming its suitability for GLP-compliant quality control workflows in certified packaging testing laboratories. No recalibration is required between material types; however, periodic verification of die sharpness and anvil flatness (per manufacturer-recommended intervals) is mandated for continued compliance with ASTM D3285 Annex A1.

Software & Data Management

As a purely mechanical sampling device, the DRK110-1 does not incorporate embedded electronics, firmware, or data logging capabilities. Its operation is fully manual and independent of software interfaces—ensuring immunity to electromagnetic interference, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, or firmware obsolescence. All measurement traceability is maintained through physical calibration records (e.g., micrometer verification logs, die wear inspection reports) retained as part of laboratory quality documentation per ISO/IEC 17025 clause 7.7. When integrated into LIMS or ELN systems, specimen preparation events are manually logged using standardized SOP templates referencing batch numbers, operator IDs, and date/time stamps—fully compatible with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 audit trail requirements when paired with electronic signature-enabled platforms.

Applications

• Preparation of test specimens for Cobb value determination (g/m²) in paper mills and packaging converters
• Standardized disc cutting for grease penetration testing per TAPPI T 454 om-15 and ISO 21702
• Specimen generation for ISO 6587 (water vapor transmission rate) preconditioning protocols
• QC sampling in food-grade paper certification (e.g., EU Regulation 10/2011 compliance testing)
• Research-grade specimen preparation in pulp & paper academic laboratories requiring metrologically traceable geometry
• Third-party certification labs performing CNAS-accredited testing per GB/T 22864–2009 (tissue paper standards)

FAQ

What standards does the DRK110-1 directly support?
It complies with GB/T 1540–2002, GB/T 5406–1985, ISO 535, ASTM D3285, and TAPPI T 454.
Can it cut corrugated board?
Yes—within the 0.1–1.0 mm single-face or combined board thickness range; optimal performance requires flat, uncompressed samples.
Is calibration required before first use?
No initial calibration is needed; however, users must verify die diameter and tolerance using certified micrometers per ISO/IEC 17025 internal verification procedures.
How often should the cutting die be serviced?
Inspect for edge chipping or dulling every 500 cuts; resharpening or replacement is recommended at 2,000 cumulative cuts or upon visible degradation in cut edge quality.
Does it meet GLP or GMP requirements?
Yes—when operated within documented SOPs and supported by maintenance logs, calibration records, and operator training documentation per ICH-GCP and WHO TRS 961 Annex 4.