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Thermocutters - Electric Hot Knives

Whether you want to cut a thin sheet of plastic, a piece of foam, or another synthetic material, the right hot knife can carry out the job with ease and precision.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a thermocutter but are unsure if this is the right cutting tool for you or if you would like to know more about how to pick the perfect hot knife, you have come to the right place.

From what exactly is a hot knife cutter, to the different types of thermocutters on the market, to the benefits of this device, below you’ll find everything you need to know about thermocutters and a list of electric hot knives we sell online below.

What is a hot knife?

A hot knife, which is also referred to as an electric hot knife, a thermocutter or a hot knife cutter, is a hot blade that is used to cut, shape, and seal synthetic materials.

What are the main features of a thermocutter?

A good hot knife can easily and efficiently cut through an extensive range of materials, such as carpets, rope, foam, and gaskets. You can choose from models that are compact, lightweight, and hand-held for ease of use, or ones that are intended for heavy-duty cutting. Generally, electric hot knives have an adjustable temperature control setting for enhanced precision, and because you won’t need a transformer, there is no risk of the handle overheating.

What are the different types of electric hot knives?

Depending on your preference, there are several types of thermocutters to choose from:

  • A hand-held hot knife: If you have ever struggled with heavy thermocutters then a lightweight, hand-held hot knife is the best option for you.
  • A heavy-duty hot knife: Made for continuous use, you can have a full assortment of blades and enjoy more power than other models.
  • A regroover: This type of hot knife is specifically designed for regrooving smooth tires with worn tread and for restoring tread design after repair.

What are the benefits of hot knives?

There are many advantages to choosing a thermocutter, and your chosen specific model will be dependent on your cutting requirements.

The main benefits of using electric hot knives include:

  • •Instantaneous heat
  • •Adjustable temperature
  • •Ease of use
  • •Designed for on/off operation
  • •A variety of different blades to choose from
  • •Precision cutting

Benefits of the AZTC-20 and ZTS-24 thermocutters

The ever-popular AZTC-20 is both compact and lightweight, making it ideal for cutting areas with limited access. Just under 12 ounces, the AZTC-20 is a great choice for ease of use. Its blades heat instantly from 0 -1050°F, and the temperature is easily adjusted by using a convenient thumb wheel.

The ZTS-24 is designed specifically for heavy-duty industrial and continuous use. It can cut through materials up to 5 inches thick thanks to its 400 watts of power. Because of the ZTS-24 thermocutter’s separate power control, there is finer temperature control, which also allows for an easy switch between trigger activation and continuous use for longer or automated cutting applications.

What can a hot knife cut?

A hot knife is made to cut through synthetic materials and is therefore not suitable for cutting through natural fibers. That being said, it can cut through an extensive range of synthetic materials, including:

  • Acrylic fabrics
  • Polyester fabrics
  • Nylon fabrics
  • Synthetic webbing
  • Synthetic rope
  • Zippers
  • Dacron sailcloth
  • Foam

What are other uses of a hot knife?

As well as for personal and professional cutting, hot knife applications include:

  • Rubbing in the tire and automotive trade
  • Manufacturers of molded die-cast and extruded parts
  • Switch and distribution boards
  • Electrical installation
  • Rubber coating removal
  • Wire stripping
  • Adhesive removal
  • Foam cutting
  • Sealing synthetic fabrics

How to use an electric hot knife ?

Using a thermocutter is fairly straightforward. Simply plug in your tool and wait only a matter of seconds for it to heat up. Then, hold the knife as you would a pencil and begin to cut. Always make sure that the material you want to cut is laid out on a flat surface and that the room is well ventilated to avoid inhaling the fumes.

Thermocutter blades replacements

If you need to replace your blades, you can easily purchase replacement blades. Here at Assembly Supplies Co., we have over 15 standard blade styles to choose from, all with various lengths and thickness, and we even have custom blades. Check out our available thermocutter blades to buy online.

Whether for professional or personal use, a hot knife is a highly effective tool for cutting through a wide range of synthetic materials, providing precision and ease of use. If you have any questions about purchasing or using a hot knife, feel free to get in touch with us either by calling 800-694-1472 or via our Contact Us page. We’ll be happy to answer all your questions.