TSL Spring Brochure 2023

Delivery charges

FREE delivery on all stocked items of £75 and over. Orders of less than £75 are subject to a £7.50 delivery charge (within UK mainland).

We aim to dispatch all stocked items ordered before 11am, on the same day. For full delivery charges, please visit our Terms and Conditions wf-education.com/terms-and-conditions

Returns

All hazardous goods/chemicals are nonreturnable. Any direct or special order items are non-returnable unless faulty.

For full exclusions and returns, please visit our Terms and Conditions wf-education.com/ terms-and-conditions.

Need advice?

Please, call our friendly Customer Support team (Mon - Fri, 8.30am - 5pm, excl. Bank Holidays) on 01743 812 200 for advice on your delivery options, prices, and product selection. We offer additional delivery options including guaranteed next day.

We also have an experienced Technical Team to answer all your questions regarding our products, troubleshooting, or any health and safety queries.

Welcome to your TSL Spring 2023 brochure...

SAME TEAM, SAME PASSION!

TSL (formerly Technology Supplies) as part of the WF Education Group is committed to excellent customer support, and providing you with efficient and innovative solutions to support your delivery of D&T and STEAM in schools and colleges.

WHAT’S INSIDE?

Whether you are looking for a new space, new furniture, machinery or simply want to stock up, we have everything you need to teach D&T and STEAM. This brochure offers insights into our complete installation service, our new Akira™ system, and a variety of machinery, specialist equipment, and consumables from our range, for teaching Fabrication, Rapid Prototyping, Robotics, Textiles, and other D&T disciplines.

INTRODUCING AKIRA™

We have a NEW mobile furniture system, Akira™ designed and manufactured in the UK, by WF Education Group. The range includes mobile standard, powered, spacer, storage and, machinery benches plus mobile storage cupboards and accessories to create your own robotics arena in minutes! All Akira™ products are built on castors giving you and your students a truly flexible D&T / STEAM teaching and learning space.

Browsing & ordering online? You asked, we listened!

We have worked hard to develop a brand-new website that makes shopping with us online simple and easy. We hope it meets all your expectations... and delivers much more!

The site offers easy access to our product categories and bestselling products for an optimal browsing experience; new product highlights, a quick quote function and live stock levels with instant updates to guarantee you total visibility of our range. We also have a Resource Hub inspired by experts which includes blogs, useful ‘how to’ videos, buying guides, advice, practical downloads, and much, much more... Scan

Future-proof your space to deliver a modern D&T curriculum

Akira™ ensures that your space - specifically machinery, extraction, and benching, is no longer fixed and restrictive for the evolution of the subject within your school or college. Requirements in D&T and Engineering are continuously evolving, therefore, the ability to adapt your D&T learning space is more important than ever.

Get your upgraded space - FAST!

An Akira™ fabrication space can be installed quickly and can fit into any new build/refurbishment project. To complete your new teaching space, essential consumables and tooling are easy to find and can be added to your project order, ensuring speed and efficiency.

Want to see AkiraTM in action?

Scan the QR code to watch the video and see the quick and easy configurability of the Akira™ system...

Fabrication - Mobile furniture systems

Akira™ WorkBenches with Machinery

The AkiraTM WorkBenches with Machinery use the AkiraTM heavy-duty frame to provide systems with fully integrated extraction, safety-stop switches, and storage – all powered by a single 16A plug. These systems use a specialist castor which provides easy movement in transit, but also excellent stability through vibrationdampening pads.

Code: AKWBM03C06

Akira™ Store

A versatile heavy-duty, lockable mobile storage unit and transport system specifically designed for D&T / STEAM education, available with steel shelving.

Available in:

Lockable doors

Lockable castors

Kiwi GreenSmoke BlueOnxy Grey

The AkiraTM WorkBench is a mobile, heavy-duty bench designed and manufactured in the UK by WF Education Group specifically for use in practical and technical education settings. A highly sustainable solution - the steel frame’s considerable lifespan, coupled with the replaceable nature of modular components such as panels, worktops, storage and power units, results in a product solution that will stand the test of time under heavy educational use.

Akira™ WorkBench Standard

Mobile steel-framed workbench with lockable castors is specifically designed for practical education. The worksurfaces are made from durable laminated timber. Available in standard colours.

Akira™ WorkBench Elite

All the benefits of the Standard version, plus a power outlet unit with four plug outlets and two USB smart charging ports that charge according to the requirements of the device. Also includes a recessed, lockable under-bench storage unit for equipment. Available in standard colours.

Akira™ StorageBench

Mobile workbench designed with a full under-bench storage cupboard with sliding doors. Great for storing all of your equipment and materials for fabrication - giving you quick and easy access.

Akira™ ShapeBench

Lockable storage

Lockable castors

Lightweight workbench with lockable castors designed to bring greater flexibility to spaces by facilitating a wider range of layouts. Ideal for creating presentation layouts and for lighter activities such as computer-aided-design, coding and drawing. Available in standard colours.

Akira™ MiniBench

A half-sized WorkBench designed as an individual workstation. The MiniBench is often used between Machinery WorkBenches to create a safe working zone between the machines. Available in standard colours.

Choose your colour combinations...

WorktopsPanels

All WorkBenches come in standard dimensions:

(L) 1500mm X

(W) 750mm X

(H) 850mm

Vicenza OakKiwi GreenSmoke BlueOnxy Grey Concrete Grey

We are the official UK distributor for Hegner products, trusted for use in Design Technology departments worldwide. The machines we offer have been built for safety and reliability in educational settings, offering users a lifetime of trouble-free use. We offer the most popular Hegner woodworking equipment with a full educational specification to give you peace of mind when fitting out your workshop.

Hegner Multicut Scrollsaws

Made in Germany, they are renowned for impeccable workmanship and have been designed to last. Every model is configured specifically for educational use meaning they are safe to use by students in the workshop and give you the confidence you need to be sure that your equipment will not let you down.

SUPERIOR BUILD QUALITY

Hegner scrollsaws will survive the rigours of school use providing many years of running. Expertly engineered to reduce vibrations, causing less stress on moving parts.

SAFETY FIRST

Our EDU models are designed with safety in mind. The holddown arm ensures work is kept secure and the emergency stop switch is located conveniently at the front of the machine for fast, safe, and effective stopping of the machine.

3-YEAR WARRANTY

Hegner’s quality is backed up by a 3-year warranty for complete peace of mind.

VARIABLE SPEED VERSIONS

Allows you more control when cutting different material thicknesses without causing damage to your workpiece.

MOBILE BENCH EDITION

Hegner scrollsaws are perfect for an Akira™ mobile bench setup, meaning easy installation and fully integrated underbench extraction.

QUICK BLADE CHANGE

The system makes it easy to change a blade when required. The real benefit comes when doing piercing work. The blade can be quickly released, fed through another part of the workpiece, and clamped up again.

Static workbenches

Our range of premium workbenches for educational workshops are suitable for all aspects of teaching resistant materials.

They are constructed from a fully welded, powder coated steel frame and a solid beech top with a reversible tool well. These benches are also fitted with 4 x 7-inch woodworking vices for convenience with the option of 3-inch metalwork vices which fit into the woodwork vices.

These benches are available in a square 4 person bench, an adjustable height version and a 6 person hexagonal bench.

540-367

Fabrication - Machinery

TS440/540 Bandsaw

Highly engineered, education-ready bandsaws. Accurate thanks to the ceramic guide system, the only bandsaw you will need.

540-672 TS440 Education Bandsaw

540-673 TS540 Education Bandsaw

Meddings Compact Drill

High specification drilling machine available in both bench and floor models.

540-020 Meddings Compact Bench Drill

540-025 Meddings Compact Floor Drill

RJH Deer Bandfacer

Versatile sanding machine available in both bench and freestanding models with integrated dust extraction.

530-525 RJH Deer Bench Mounting Bandfacer

530-527 Antelope Bandfacer with Dust Extractor

Sedgwick TA315 Circular Saw

Precision circular saw with cast iron table for maximum timber support.

530-343 Sedgwick TA315-1 Saw & Braked Motor Single Phase

Sedgwick PT255 Planer/ Thicknesser

With a large cast iron tilting fence for accuracy and support.

530-348 Sedgwick PT255 Planer Thicknesser 230V

CR Clarke Vacuum Former

Quality mid-range desktop vacuum former ideal for education.

490-152 725FLB Vacuum Former 230V

CR Clarke Strip Heater

Produce accurate bends in plastic material easily - available with single or double wires.

490-101 Model 600S Strip Heater

490-104 Model 600D Strip Heater

490-106 Model 1000S Strip Heater

490-126 Model 1000D Strip Heater

Hegner Disc Sander

Built to last like the Hegner scrollsaws, the HSM300S provides a powerful disc sander, available with interlocked extraction.

HSM300S Disc Sander HSM300S 0.75kW 230V

HSM300S-EDU Disc Sander HSM300S with Integrated Extractor

At TSL we stock a wide range of tools for use in fabrication spaces. We are constantly reviewing our offer to ensure we provide the best products from the best manufacturers at competitive prices. Below is a selection of our bestselling hand and power tools. For our full range of tools, visit our website.

Eclipse coping saw ideal for cutting and shaping in wood. Fitted with a traditional wooden handle and 360-degree blade rotation.

600-133500-226

Pack of Eclipse wood chisels with chrome vanadium re-sharpenable blades and soft grip handles.

500-225

Value ball pein hammer for striking and shaping metal. Forged head and hickory shaft with polished and lacquered chamfered striking face.

400-155

Great value tenon saw from Draper, manufactured from hardened and tempered carbon steel.

720-298

The Draper precision mitre saw offers accurate cutting of angles and mitres. With a solid aluminium table, material vice clamp and adjustable depth stop. £11.90£7.90£57.80

Smoothing plane with cast iron body, precision milled base and faces and adjustable high carbon steel 50mm blade.

510-113

Footprint carpenter’s mallet made in Britain from specially selected beechwood.

400-256

Hand Tools – Which saw? FREE poster!

To make things easier for students when selecting the correct saw for their work, we’ve created a simple poster designed to remind them of the functions each saw is suited to. Perfect for use on walls in your D&T workshop.

Simply scan the QR code, download, and print...

Heavy duty retractable craft knife with a strong aluminium body, integral blade storage and a 0.5mm blade.

190-303

300mm stainless steel ruler acid etched with imperial and metric graduations and convenient hanging hole.

550-108

Hand and power tools

As with any piece of equipment in your workshop, there are risks associated with the use of hand tools. Following some basic safety guidelines, making students aware of the risks, and sensible work practice, incidents can be avoided.

for use

your workshop.

Our best sellers...

Bench hook manufactured from beechwood, for right hand or left-hand use.

A draper engineer’s files with high carbon steel file and soft gip handles with hanging holes. Pack of 3.

High quality 150mm try square made in Britain. With a walnut handle and a hardened steel blade, fixed with hardwearing brass rivets.

Light weight quick change bar clamp with fast action grip that allows precise pressure to be applied with one hand.

Compact combi drill from Black & Decker suitable for hammer drilling and precise screwdriving applications.

Download our FREE poster £14.70 x hand tools Search the full range online

Fixings, finishings and abrasives

We have a comprehensive range which contains all the essential sanding products, adhesives, paints and other finishing products required in your fabrication workshop.

High quality glasspaper for general woodworking projects in 150grit. Other grit sizes also available.

Heavy duty sanding belt for use on wood and plastics. Suitable for RJH machines, many other sizes available.

High quality woodworking PVA wood glue in 5l bottle. Dilute to desired consistency and can be used with range of materials.

General purpose low tack masking tape, size 25mm, in a value pack of 12.

Single component cement, Tensol No.12, used to create a clear bond in cast acrylic sheets.

Danish Oil is a natural finish oil for all types of wood. Easy to apply and provides the perfect finish.

Assorted zinc plated countersink screws, suitable for a number of applications.

Evo-Stik Impact is high strength adhesive that bonds on contact to a wide range of materials.

Clear general purpose 250mm glue sticks compatible with many glue guns. The sticks can be cut to the required size.

Safety and protection

Quality Products | Optimum Safety | Fast Delivery

Martcare eyeshield safety glasses. Low energy impact for general workshop use.

for the full range...

590-392

590-172

590-101

590-177

590-092

590-031

Heavy duty 100% cotton navy drill apron with stitched halter neck strap.

One use disposable dust masks in a pack of 50. Comfort fit for general use.

Pair of riggers gloves with a leather palm and a canvas wrist and back, for general workshop use.

Face shield with grey browguard and wheel ratchet adjustment. Rated to withstand medium impact.

Sonis 1 high quality ear defenders for moderate industrial noise with small cup size for a comfortable fit.

£3.70 £16.80

£2.10 £3.20

£15.30 £20.50

Lead free pewter stick is the ideal safe metal to demonstrate casting techniques. Value pack of 3 sticks.

High quality opaque cast acrylic in a pack of 10 assorted colours. Other finishes and sizes also available online. Sheet size 1000 x 500 x 3mm

Poplar Ply is a versatile plywood suitable for general fabrication and laser cutting in a value pack of 12 500 x 375 x 6mm sheets.

E1 grade MDF sheet in a pack of 36. Great for laser cutting and general use. Sheet size 600 x 300 x 3mm

Hardwood dowel in 6mm diameter and 600mm length. Popular in model making, many more sizes available online.

Assorted selection of hardwood lengths, includes square, round section and pegboard.

Clear, food grade PVC film for vacuum forming. Great for blister packaging and moulds. 545 x 0.25mm.

Assorted pack of virgin grade vacuum forming sheets (HIPS). Sheet size fits most popular vacuum formers. Pack of 108. Sheet size 457 x 254 x 1mm

Extruded acrylic with mirror coating on one side, ideal for displays and custom projects. Sheet size 610 x 485 x 3mm

Check out TSL’s Materials Buying Guide which covers HIPS, Acrylic, Polypropylene, PLA, and ABS, giving you tips on how to buy the right product from the right supplier once you’ve picked the material for your project.

Ravatherm medium density polystyrene block ideal for prototyping. Can be sawn, carved and sanded to shape. Sheet size 1200 x 600 x 50mm

490-231

Foamboard 5mm, ideal for model making and display work. Lightweight and rigid, it can be easily cut, folded and glued. A1 size, pack of 10.

Assorted pack of 10 PVC foam sheets, 1220 x 610 x 3mm. A good alternative to acrylic and MDF, this material is easy to fabricate and can be CNC machined.

490-913490-388

Money saving bulk pack of clear cast acrylic, ideal for general fabrication and laser cutting. Many other sies available. Sheet size 1000 x 500 x 3mm

490-908

We don’t just want to help you by supplying the best materials to support your teaching, we want to share the best ways of working with it too. Here are some useful things about the materials themselves and project ideas which we think are well worth knowing.

√ Drill your acrylic without cracking it

√ Get to know sublimation printing

√ Create your own ‘living hinge’ in sheet material

√ Your acrylic can do more

√ Make confectionary with a vacuum former and 3D printer (and chocolate)

√ Think outside the box with Polypropylene

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KEEP YOUR STUDENTS SAFE

Ensuring your equipment is serviced and maintained regularly is essential for prolonging the life of your machines, remaining fully Health & Safety compliant, and ultimately keeping your students and staff safe.

Why is maintenance so important?

Meet all current legislation, insurance requirements and responsibilities including COSHH 2002 Regulations, PUWER 1998 Regulations, LOLER 1998 Regulations, BS4163:2014, BS7671:2008, HSE Guidelines HSG 258 Ensure equipment is safe for you and your students. Carrying out LEV testing within the required 14-month intervals, and Portable Appliance Testing within the required 12-month intervals. Extend the working life of your equipment

CHOOSE FROM OUR RANGE OF MAINTENANCE

Why choose TSL?

√ A well-established, reliable maintenance service provider

√ Fully accredited with up-to-date qualifications

√ Comprehensive, tailored packages to save you time and money

√ g Our full offerin is available nationwide

√ Maintenance with dust and fume extraction (LEV) testing and certification for laser cutters, heat bays, fume cupboards, kilns & more – carried out by our engineers

√ Maintenance only - only servicing is required to be carried out by our engineers

√ Laser Cutters – full service carried out by a specialist

√ Kilns - full service carried out by a specialist or safety/integrity check by our engineers

√ Sewing machine - full service carried out by a specialist

√ Heat Treatment (brazing hearth) - full gas service carried out by a specialist or safety/integrity check by our engineers

√ Fume cupboards - full service carried out by a specialist or COSHH testing carried out by our engineers

√ Garage equipment - full service carried out by a specialist

√ Electrical safety/integrity checks on various equipment carried out by our engineers

Post servicing reports, summary of recommended remedial work, and parts and labour proposals will be supplied to you on completion.

“TSL has proven to be a very reliable organisation. They keep the customer informed, meet all agreed gy and competent service. The staff will continue to use TSL and have no hesitation in recommending them”

How we can support you...

We are committed to deliver you the products and services you need. We have a responsive and knowledgeable Customer Support team who can help you with general enquires around ordering and selecting products and accessories. You can get in touch by phone or email or by using one of our online contact forms: 01743 812 200 | customer.support@wf-education.com

We also offer more technical support, with questions answered by our experienced team.

Need support with your laser cutter – visit our dedicated FAQ page for quick and easy trouble-shooting tips...

shop.wf-education.com/dnt/laser-cutter-faq

DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT!

A family of brands

WF Education Group is a family of brands that has been serving the education and library sectors for over 80 years. A global solution provider for specialist education; we provide products and design spaces to improve wellbeing and learning outcomes.

As well as TSL, we have three other brands with ranges dedicated to Science, Libraries and Learning Spaces, and Sports and Leisure.

Timstar’s curriculum-relevant specialist solutions and resources stimulate curiosity and interest – supporting and engaging students to question, investigate and explore, developing transferable skills and knowledge. Working with science educators we aim to be a respected science partner –helping to shape and inspire the scientists of tomorrow!

A specialist library partner, Gresswell supports libraries with professional resources to efficiently run, helping to support the communities they serve. With 80 years of expertise Gresswell supports the academic literacy, educational, creative, emotional, and reading development of students, teachers, and patrons.

Maudesport supports the development of physical and mental wellbeing through engaging, innovative, and inclusive activities or sports in education and leisure. Creating engaging opportunities through sport and activityfocused spaces, supplies, resources, and solutions to support the acquisition of skills to live healthy, happy lives.

P. Woodward – Head of Creative Arts at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate

Rapid prototyping - Learning spaces

Akira™ Rapid Prototyping spaces create a flexible environment with mobile furniture that can be reconfigured according to the teaching or learning style required, whether your students are applying rapid prototyping individually, collaboratively, or presenting their work. We combine our mobile furniture range with education specific machinery, equipment and consumables to deliver you a ‘ready-to-teach' space.

Laser cutters

Want to see Akira

Scan the QR code to watch the video and see the quick and easy configurability of the Akira™ system...

3D Printer filament

From initial research, computer-aided design, and prototyping to the manufacture of a working product; our Rapid Prototyping offer creates an immersive and engaging environment for students to understand commercial manufacturing and industrial practices within their practical teaching space.

3D Printers

Acrylic sheets

Rapid prototyping - Mobile furniture systems

The AkiraTM WorkBench is a mobile, heavy-duty bench designed and manufactured in the UK by WF Education Group specifically for use in practical and technical education settings. A highly sustainable solution - the steel frame’s considerable lifespan, coupled with the replaceable nature of modular components such as panels, worktops, storage and power units, results in a product solution that will stand the test of time under heavy educational use.

Akira™ WorkBench Standard

Mobile steel-framed workbench with lockable castors is specifically designed for practical education. The dimensions of the bench are (L) 1500mm X (W) 750mm X (H) 850mm. The worksurfaces are made from durable laminated timber. Available in standard colours.

Akira™ WorkBench Elite

The Elite Akira™ WorkBench includes all the benefits of the standard version, plus a power outlet unit with four plug outlets and two USB smart charging ports that charge according to the requirements of the device. The Elite also includes a lockable under-bench storage unit for equipment. The perfect bench for teaching Rapid Prototyping.

Akira™ WorkBench Lite

Lightweight workbench designed to bring greater flexibility to spaces by facilitating a wider range of layouts. Ideal for creating presentation layouts and for lighter activities such as computer-aided-design, coding and drawing. Available in standard colours.

Akira™ StorageBench

Mobile workbench design with full underbench storage cupboard with sliding doors. Great for storing and locking away all of your robotics equipment for quick and easy access. Make the most out of strage space where standing is required. Available in standard colours.

Choos

All WorkBenches come in standard dimensions: (L) 1500mm X (W) 750mm X (H) 850mm

WorktopsPanels

Vicenza OakKiwi GreenSmoke BlueOnxy Grey Concrete Grey

Akira™ Store

A versatile heavy-duty, lockable storage and transport system specifically designed for D&T / STEAM education. Store your 3D Printers and materials in a single space which can be stationed or transported on the fly to suit your schedules and lesson plans. Includes 3 steel shelves. Dimensions: Length: 1450mm Width: 700mm Height: 1800mm.

Once a novelty in many classrooms and maker spaces, 3D printers are again flourishing as valuable classroom tools thanks to advanced technology, lower costs, and enhanced products and services.

How do you use this brilliant technology to reach a high level of student engagement?

3D modelling and printers can bring almost any educational concept to life while building practical skills such as problemsolving, creative coding and design. The benefits of 3D printing for students — engagement, deeper learning, and the strengthening of workforce skills — are vast.

By exploring how to introduce 3D printing into the classroom, the educational benefits, collaborative opportunities, and where to find additional funding resources, educators will be well prepared to help pupils today become the makers of tomorrow.

TSL has the benefit of many years of supplying, installing, and maintaining 3D printers in education. We have combined this expertise to create several guides, designed to aid and inform your application and purchasing decisions.

Scan the QR code to download the following guides:

√ 3D Printer Buying Guide

√ 3D Printing in Education: Where does 3D printing fit into education?

√ 3D Printer Filament Guide

See 3D Printers on page 25

Kiwi GreenSmoke BlueOnxy Grey

A laser cutter is a great addition to any Design and Technology room, so, what are the main reasons you should invest in a laser cutter? What advantages does it present?

Easy-to-use

Safe and simple controls mean students can send their own designs to the machine and run it themselves.

Speed

Depending on the material you are using and the nature of your design, a cut and engrave can be done in minutes for quick results and high throughput.

Range of materials

With a laser cutter you have a good range of materials you can use for different projects. Woods and acrylic are popular materials for cutting and engraving. Textiles, card, paper, rubber, cork, and engraving laminate are too, and glass can be engraved.

Money saving

While a laser cutter is a great tool for Design & Technology, it can also be used for other general school-wide requirements such as signage, open days, school awards, teaching resources and school merchandise.

Industrial technology

Laser cutters introduce students to a recognised technology and manufacturing process used in industrial applications while maintaining required safety for an educational environment.

GCC LASER CUTTERS

The GCC range of LaserPro laser cutters is built for industrial applications and are high-quality premium machines powered by metal tubes. Manufactured in Taiwan, these tough and feature rich machines were first introduced into education by TSL 20 years ago.

They have built up a reputation as the teachers’ choice for quality laser cutting thanks to their premium build and developed safety features.

The LaserPro range also consists of the more recently added ‘X’ series, powered by an economical glass tube but still carries the LaserPro build quality.

Laser cutting in education

Output directly from CAD software

The supplied dedicated printer driver allows you to output through the print command directly from industry CAD software such as CorelDraw, 2D Design and Artcam.

Safe for education

Completely safe to use in a classroom environment with features such as interlocked doors, emergency stop and key switch and extraction interface, where the machine won’t fire unless the extractor is on.

Industrial quality specification

Manufactured for industry, the high quality, heavy-duty construction is designed for regular use so will withstand the most demanding classroom applications and is a great investment.

Long warranty for peace of mind

With a 2-year warranty on the machine and tube (2-year machine and 12 months tube warranty for ‘X’ series), the LaserPro range offers some of the best coverage allowing you to use your laser with confidence.

Choosing the right laser cutter

Still unsure of what to think about when looking for a laser cutter? Overwhelmed by all the machines available? Our laser buying guide will help you understand all of the technical considerations, what to prioritise, and make it easier to construct your laser bid and make the right choice.

No need to manually focus

Patented autofocus gauge to ensure the exact focal point on the chosen material is found saving you time and providing a more accurate focus.

Cut and engrave with greater accuracy

Superior high-speed DC servo motors which deliver greater power at higher speeds than a stepper motor and greater accuracy due to their continuous movement

High end performance and longer life

Powered by a Synrad advanced metal tube means high end cutting and engraving capabilities and a much longer lifespan. (‘X’ series are powered by glass tubes).

NEED TECHNICAL SUPPORT?

We have collated all of our customers most frequently asked questions and created troubleshooting guides to help you identify and solve issues with your laser cutter. You can also download our handy maintenance checklist!

Visit our website and take a look for yourself!

A laser cutter is a versatile piece of equipment allowing fast production of designs for projects and prototypes – students love the opportunity to test their skills! One of the major advantages of a laser cutter is the range of materials that can be cut and engraved, each providing their own characteristics and benefits.

ACRYLIC

The most popular material used on laser cutters in education. It can be cut, engraved, bent and thermoformed. Two types are available, cast and extruded, with the method of production the differentiating factor. Cast is generally used for laser cutting as it cuts cleanly and produces clear, white engraves, engraving is not as successful on extruded.

WOOD

A variety of wood material can be cut and engraved, the most popular is laser-grade ply and MDF. It’s important to consider that other components used in some materials, such as resin content in ply, which will have an impact on the cutting performance. Make sure your extractor is in good working order when cutting/engraving wood.

PAPER AND CARD

Thin box card and paper can be cut on a laser cutter, perfect for decorative and intricate designs. With the correct power settings, card can be cut and scored to produce perfect nets for packaging projects.

You can also successfully cut and engrave heavier-weight textiles such as leatherette, engrave glass, cork, rubber stamp material and engraving laminate.

ACRYLIC SHEET

We have a wide range of acrylic sheet suitable for laser cutting. We stock 600 x 400mm sizes perfect for most laser cutter beds in opaque, transparent, fluorescent, frost and clear finishes in a choice of colours. Our bulk packs are perfect for stocking up cost effectively.

Pack of 12 500 x 375 x 4mm sheets of low resin Poplar ply. Handy sheets for simple laser cutting

490-866

490-041 Opaque acrylic pack of 8

490-042 Transparent acrylic pack of 6

490-043 Fluorescent acrylic pack of 5

450-074 Frosted acrylic pack of 12

450-041 Clear acrylic pack of 5

600 x 400 x 4mm MDF suitable for laser cutting, in convenient money saving pack of 6 sheets.

490-857

Low odor rubber stamp material, great for creating customised stamps with intricate designs on a laser cutter. A4 sheet, 2.3mm thick.

495-007

Pack of 100 sheets of A2 box card. Great for producing accurate nets or decorative design using a laser cutter.

380-511

610 x 305 x 1.6mm sheet of engraving laminate, blue on white. Ideal for sign making with more colours available.

490-348

1000 x 560mm lengths of black leatherette. Creates stunning results after being laser engraved.

470-240

£93.50 £12.90

£16.80 £12.60

£65.00 £14.20

TSL offers two major brands of 3D printers with associated consumables to keep things simple while also providing variation for Design Technology applications.

Ultimaker

The latest versions of the popular Ultimaker provides some of the most advanced functions on a desktop 3D printer. Ultimaker are constantly developing their range to provide the latest additive manufacturing technology across education and industry.

√ Swappable print cores for easy maintenance and material changes

√ Filament sensors to indicate usage

√ Air manager addon keeps a consistent temperature and filters the air while the automatic spool loader switches to a new material

√ Ever-increasing library of materials produced alongside major manufacturers to increase the potential of your printer

√ Powerful open source Cura software to send designs to your printer

MakerBot

The original mass-produced desktop FFF printer has gone from strength to strength. A feature-rich version of the original Replicator is still available with the latest Method printers offering advanced material compatibility.

√ Removable material group specific extruders for simple material installation preventing cross contamination

√ Thermal regulation within the build chamber for accurate builds

√ SmartAssist™ material loading for simple, hands free, material changes

√ The latest CloudPrint™ software is a faster way of getting from a CAD file to printed part, boosting productivity

3D printing materials

We have the essential consumables and materials to support your Ultimaker or MakerBot 3D printer, including the manufacturer’s own materials as well as a range of third-party filaments compatible across a number of systems.

Lacking space to get students testing & competing in robotics?

If you struggle with space to get students testing and competing when studying robotics, the Akira™ robotics system lets you create ‘zones’ for robotics activities in any technical practical teaching space. Students can code, collaborate and compete individually or collaboratively, within your flexible space.

Robotics bumper system

Want to see AkiraTM in action?

Scan the QR code to watch the video and see the quick and easy configurability of the Akira™ system...

Set up robotics in minutes, revert to a classroom FAST!

Run your robotics testing and competitions using our Akira™ Robotics Bumper System combined with our WorkBench. Protect your students’ robotics projects using this removeable safety system which prevents robots from falling off the work surface. Fix into position in minutes, remove in seconds. Discover the full Akira™ robotics range on page 28.

Storage

P29

P28

Robotics - Mobile furniture systems

Akira™ Bumper System

Create robotics arenas of any size, from 1500 x 750mm to 4500 x 4500 mm or even bigger!

Run your robotics testing and competitions at a safe working height and protect your students’ robots using this removable solid bumper system which prevents robots from falling off the work surface. Students or teachers can fix them easily into position in minutes, remove them in seconds and store them neatly until they are next required. Compatible with all Akira™ WorkBenches. Set up in minutes, revert back to a classroom in seconds

All you need is a mimimum of 2 Akira™ benches, 1 bumper pack with brackets included.

Akira™ WorkBench Standard

Mobile workbench specifically designed for practical education. Create truly flexible, future-proofed spaces for technical subjects. Available in standard colours.

Akira™ WorkBench Lite

A lighter version of our Akira™ standard workbench, specifically designed for practical education. A great alternative to the standard version for configuring your next robotics arena!

Akira™ StorageBench

Mobile workbench design with full underbench storage cupboard with sliding doors. Great for storing and locking away all of your robotics equipment for quick and easy access. Make the most out of strage space where standing is required. Available in standard colours.

Choose your colour combinations...

WorktopsPanels

Make Robotics part of your new flexible space. Get in touch for your FREE design consultation, or start small with a few benches and the bumper pack!

Vicenza OakKiwi GreenSmoke BlueOnxy Grey Concrete Grey

Akira™ Store

A versatile, lockable, and heavy-duty storage and transport system specifically designed for D&T/STEAM education. Store your robotics equipment in a single space which can be stationed or transported on the fly to suit your schedules and lesson plans. Provided with steel shelving. Length: 1450mm Width: 700mm Height: 1800mm

Choose your colour

Lockable doors

Lockable castors

Tidy away your robotics equipment & consumables in a heavy-duty mobile storage cabinet...

Participation in robotics significantly increases a student’s confidence in using computers, and their interest in taking additional or harder science, maths or computing classes.

Kiwi GreenSmoke BlueOnxy Grey

No one can predict the future, but we can prepare for it!

Akira™ can be upgraded, converted or re-configured based on the evolving pedagogical needs of your space. As teaching staff arrive, curriculums and technologies continue to evolve, the system gives new teachers the power to create their own vision through their teaching space. An environmentally friendly product range, in construction and in use.

Want to see AkiraTM in action?

Scan the QR code to watch the video and see the quick and easy configurability of the Akira™ system...

One space. Multiple activities. Multiple

Akira™ flexible learning spaces let you create different room layouts for switching between activities and teaching styles, quickly! From STEAM programmes and D&T activities to problem solving, creativity, communication and collaboration.

Our range of products covers a variety of activities including crafting, pottery, technical drawing, model making, and painting. We’ve highlighted some of our most popular lines but if there’s something else you are looking for, please browse our full range online..

Quality A3 presentation folders with 20 clear internal pockets for 40 sheets. Clear pockets on the front and rear too.

Our hugely popular A3 portfolio made from 300micron polypropylene suitable for approx. 100 sheets.

Clock movement with set of hands, suitable for a face thickness of 5mm, supplied in packs of 10. See our full range of clock movements online.

The popular Rotring A3 college drawing board with parallel drafting arm, locking mechanism and spring loaded sheet clamps.

Sturdy A3 lightbox for drawing and tracing work. Illuminated by cool fluorescent lights under an acrylic diffuser.

A3 cutting mat made from a laminated PVC ensuring no visible trace of cuts and is non slip for safety.

Precision A1 sized paper trimmer with a 20 sheet capacity. Self-sharpening blades and handy size indicators.

Economy clock movement with internal hanger, fixing hardware and push fit hands. Maximum material thickness 8mm.

Heavy weight 220gsm A2 cartridge paper in packs of 100. Suitable for drawing, printmaking, and painting.

Art and crafts

Excellent value class box of the popular classmaster coloured pencils. 288 pencils in 12 assorted colours.

Create perfect 3D sketches in seconds with ISO sketch. Great tool to teach isometric drawing, class pack of 30.

System 3 acrylic paint set from Daler Rowney. Quality pigments provide the perfect finish, pack of 6 assorted colours.

Polymorph has the characteristics of a tough engineering material but is mouldable at low temperature. 1kg pack.

A200H hooded benchtop extractor ideal for use with spray paints and adhesives.

Pack of 12 assorted large artists paintbrushes, suitable for acrylics and oils.

The Antex Pyro-Master is a heated tools for marking and personalising materials. It works great on wood and leather.

A3 spiral bound sketchbook from Daler Rowney with hard back front and back covers and 30 155gsm pages.

Search Art and crafts online for the full range...

700-250

380-758

£5.80 £29.95

The UK textiles industry is worth close to £9 billion to the economy. This is set to increase and employment in the sector is growing year after year which means accommodating boys' and girls' interest in this subject is critical. Coupled with our modern digital landscape, the subject provides students with the opportunity to develop design and construction techniques and combine new materials and technologies to create functional wearables and ‘smart clothes’using recognised equipment and competencies.

Sewing machines

Not only do sewing machines facilitate the construction of finished products, but they also help support a number of textile topics

√ Stitch type and strength – the differences between different stitches and where they are applicable

√ Textiles history – hand techniques pre sewing machine

√ E-textiles – incorporate modern technology into textile creation to develop high tech practical garments to support real world applications

The Janome J3-18 is a great budget sewing machine with 18 stitch selections, front-loading bobbin and the built in needle threader makes this excellent value.

385-230

£242.30

The Janome 725S is a well-equipped, great value machine. Includes 25 built in stitches, top loading bobbin and adjustable stitch length.

385-716

£375.00

Sublimation printing

Sublimation printing has been around for many years, but the technology has moved on from messy bulk ink systems and voided printer warranties to the current Sawgrass system using high-spec desktop printers and contained cartridges.

Rather than a print that sits on the surface, the magic of sublimation is due to specialist ink and transfer paper that permeates into the material, producing stunning, long-lasting results.

Sublimation is popular in schools thanks to the professional technology allowing students to create finished products from their designs in quick time. It is also often used outside of the classroom to create school merchandise for commemorative occasions which can be bought by students and families, raising funds, and covering running costs.

The best way to get started in sublimation printing is with one of our starter kits.

Popular A4 Sublimation kit containing A4 printer, heat press, inks, sublimation paper, heat tape and samples pack. Everything you need to get started straight away.

535-208

Sublimation mug press kit to create professional quality printed mugs, containing the A4 sublimation printer, inks, paper, heat tape, a mug press, and mugs.

535-213

A4 sublimation printer with inks and paper. Ideal if you already have a heat press. Just print your designs through your preferred software.

535-430

A3 Sublimation starter kit containing A3 printer, large clam press, standard inks, sublimation paper and heat tape. Great for larger applications.

535-225

Our popular budget A4 heat press is suitable for most sublimation applications. Simple to use with a good temperature range for a variety of printable items.

535-230

A4 sublimation paper for use with the A4 or A3 printers. Compatible with a number of sublimation applications such as garments, coasters and mugs.

535-419

How can schools lead on driving sustainability?

A huge 80% of school waste is recyclable and with almost 34,000 schools in the United Kingdom, a concerted movement can have a significant and long-lasting effect. Educating students en masse becomes a rich and powerful channel for promoting the value of recycling and enforcing the application of the 6Rs.

Time and resources in allocated lessons allow D&T departments to focus, educate and demonstrate the benefits of recycling. With this foundation, departments can take it to the next level. Some schools and colleges are actively working with the wider community and manufacturers to develop programmes that help make a difference and the D&T department is perfectly aligned to driving it.

The more D&T educators can do to engrain the principles of recycling and sustainability, the more students will discover the benefits of developing a sustainable mindset – not only helping to save the planet but to also establish skills for the workplace and beyond.

In the words of Sir David Attenborough...

NOT SURE WHAT TO RECYCLE?

Check out our recyclable plastics download which can be used as a poster to educate students to think about their next recycling project.

“The world is in trouble...we know what to do, we just need the will”

Introducing the Schred - recycling system

Design and Technology is the perfect subject to get students involved with recycling!

The CR Clarke plastic recycling system allows you to recycle old plastic into usable sheets of material suitable for thrermoforming. Materials that can be recycled include PP, HIPS, ABS and LDPE (milk bottles).

The system consists of a granulator which continually shreds the fed material into very small pellets and a sheet press which uses heat and pressure to turn the pellets into a plastic sheet. Check out the range for more detail online.

C R Clarke Schred R25 Plastic Granulator Single Phase

C R Clarke Schred R30 Plastic Sheet Making Press

490-046490-048

The R25 is an industrial-quality plastic granulator. Suitable materials for recycling include PP, HIPS, ABS, and LDPE.

Materials to be granulated are loaded into the hopper at the top of the machine. A combination of static and rotating blades gradually chops the material into smaller and smaller pieces. Once the material reaches a small enough size it passes out through a mesh filter and into a collection bin.

Use the C R Clarke Plastic Sheet Making Press in conjunction with the Schred system to turn your old plastic waste into usable vacuum thermoforming.

The R30 Sheet Press converts granulated thermoplastic material into a usable form using heat and pressure. As standard, the formed article is a flat plastic sheet, which can typically be used thermoforming forming, laser cutting, line bending etc. There are also tools available for making shaped parts, for example frisbees, on the machine.

PROJECT IDEAS USING THE SCHRED SYSTEM

The Schred recycling system is an excellent, easy-to-use investment for any D&T department. Take a look at our project suggestions for recycling with your students and the Schred system...

USING THE SCHRED SYSTEM

Download our guide to find out more about how the Schred system works...

The Schred Recycling System is a great way to recycle scrap material and turn it into something useable. This new material you produce can be further thermoformed using a vacuum former, strip heater and vacuum form cutter. Here is a selection of the key plastic forming equipment to consider alongside the Schred system with more on our website.

CR Clarke Vacuum Former 725FLB

490-152

√ Perfect mid-range desktop vacuum former with a good sized forming area

√ Fitted with multi-zone ceramic heaters to balance out temperature variations for consistent heating

√ Interlocked guard means moving parts are safely contained

√ The blow release removes forms from their mould with minimal effort

CR Clarke Strip Heater 600D

490-104

√ The double heated wire setup means you can easily fold plastic material up to 10mm thick

√ Calibrated guides provide a provide assistance when forming bends

√ Folding jig accessories supports your material correctly after bending, maintaining the desired result

RJH Gerbil 2020 Vacuum Form Cutter

530-355

√ This portable benchtop machine goes hand in hand with a vacuum former and ensures safe trimming and finishing of vacuum forms

√ Tungsten carbide abrasive disc for safe trimming

√ Toolkit to facilitate other tasks such as polishing, deburring and slot cutting

full turnkey solution

We have supplied quality and affordable products to schools, colleges and universities across the globe for over 30 years, backed up by outstanding customer support and expert technical/aftersales support. Our team are all dedicated to supporting Design & Technology educators by providing the products and solutions required to improve academic outcomes.

We have a talented in-house design and project management team who can help you maximise both your space and your budget, while dealing with one friendly team from design to installation.

Whether it is machinery, equipment, and consumables you desire or a full specialist space planning and installation service; TSL can provide everything you need to support the delivery of D&T.

Installations

Expert design, consultation, and installation service with options to include our mobile furniture system designed to transform any D&T and STEAM space into a truly flexible environment. Get your new D&T/STEAM space in as little as 6 weeks! Book a FREE consultation with our team.

Resources

Everythingyou need to teach D&T!

Supplies

Installations

Resources

Maintenance Support

We have a NEW online resource hub! With blogs, how-to guides, downloadable posters/design files, product recommendations, and project or material suggestions. Sign up for our newsletter for content delivered straight to your inbox.

Maintenance

TSL’s in-house team of experienced and qualified engineers will ensure your machinery and equipment is safe for daily use in a busy D&T workshop, giving you peace of mind and full compliance. Book your next check today.

Support

We have a friendly and experienced team of Customer Support advisors ready to help you with any issue or D&T query! Contact them by email, by phone or by using one of our online forms.

Supplies

TSL’s range includes thousands of supplies specifically chosen for use in education by D&T teachers and technicians. Easily browse our categories of machinery, equipment and consumables on the NEW TSL website, or use our ‘quick search’ function to find what you need, when you need it.

Fancy a peek inside our warehouse?

WF Education Group’s ethos is to provide a hassle-free turnkey service for every TSL customer - from support and procurement through to aftercare and maintenance - all under one roof. We have a European Headquarters and distribution centre in the heart of Shropshire, with offices in both the UK and France.

We operate from our large Shropshire based distribution centre that is dedicated to fulfilling customer orders in the most sustainable and environmentally friendly ways possible. With our ISO 14001 accreditation, we are committed to a sustainable future; working with our customers to identify all opportunities to reduce waste, reuse and recycle.