Tire component cutter apparatus and method of cutting

A method of cutting an elastomeric strip of material is described. The method includes the step of advancing a strip of material a predetermined distance by a conveyor means . Resisting reverse movement of the strip ; tensioning the strip ; and cutting simultaneously across the entire width of the strip through the thickness of the strip on a skive angle of 45 degrees or less preferably about 28 degrees to form a cut length of material thereby relaxing the tension in the strip as the skive cut ends and move apart. This method of cutting can be accomplished by providing an apparatus for cutting an elastomeric strip of material which has a frame assembly , a motorized feed conveyor mounted onto the frame for advancing the strip material , a cutter assembly mounted on the frame assembly including a guillotine cutter oriented to move along a skive angle α, a second conveyor means for supporting the strip , the second conveyor means having rollers having a one way directional movement in the forward direction resistant to movement in the reverse direction; a motor connected to the feed conveyor to drive the conveyor in an advancing direction and having a reverse tensioning direction; and wherein the cutter assembly is positioned between the second conveyor means and the feed conveyor to cut the strip after a tension is applied to the strip by reverse motion of the feed conveyor