perforer

Perforer is a noun that refers to a person or device that makes perforations—holes, slits, or other openings—in a material. The term is used across industries to describe tools or machines that create patterned or precise perforations, whether for tearing, filtration, ventilation, or access.

In manufacturing and packaging, perforers include punch presses, die-cutting devices, and laser or rotary perforators that punch or cut holes in paper, cardboard, foil, plastic film, or textiles. Perforation patterns can be used to enable easy tearing, control airflow, or reduce material weight while preserving strength. Applications range from postage and tickets to packaging, gaskets, and filters.

In the oil and gas industry, perforation involves creating holes in the casing and cement to connect the wellbore to the reservoir. A perforating gun or perforation tool is used to deploy shaped charges that perforate the casing at multiple depths.

In dentistry and medicine, the term perforer is rarely used; the more common term is perforator, referring to a tool that creates a perforation in tissue or bone when needed.

Etymology and usage: perforer derives from Latin perforare, to bore through. In modern English, perforator is the standard form for the instrument, while perforer is typically used to describe a person or device in older texts or specialized contexts.

See also: perforation; perforator; perforating gun.