Snijdata

Snijdata, or cutting data, is a term used in manufacturing to describe the information required to convert raw stock into finished parts by cutting. It summarizes how and with what parameters a cut should be made, including the target dimensions for each part, the material involved, and the permissible deviations.

Typical elements of snijdata include finished part dimensions, available stock sizes, kerf (the width of the cutting tool), grain direction and fabric width for textiles, seam allowances or add-ons, tolerances, and any finishing or surface requirements. In automated environments, snijdata also specify the cutting sequence, nesting layouts, and machine or tool settings such as blade type, speed, and feed rate.

Creation and management: Snijdata are derived from engineering drawings, bills of materials, and process specifications. They are stored in product data management or CAM systems and are often linked to batch or lot information. Nesting software can optimize layouts to minimize waste while respecting constraints like kerf, grain direction, and material strength.

Importance and challenges: Accurate snijdata are essential for dimensional accuracy, material efficiency, and production throughput. They help reduce waste and rework and support consistent quality. Challenges include variability in material thickness or width, changes in design or tolerances, and the need for version control when data are updated across multiple products or processes.