FEATURE NAME ENGRAVING BY ASHLEY AUTHORBRAY
LASER FOCUS I
f sign shops are looking to bring in a machine that offers a multitude of capabilities, then they should look no further than a laser engraver/cutter. “A laser engraver or cutter is a smart addition to any sign shop,” says David Stevens, industrial applications manager, Trotec Laser, Inc. “Not only can they make current sign-making processes more efficient, but [this hardware] can also allow shops to expand their product offerings by branching into other markets.” According to Anthony Harris, US 28
Sign Builder Illustrated
October 2020
manager of Applications and Government Sales for Gravotech, Inc., laser machines offer “enhanced workflow, expanded product capabilities, and improved productivity.” Harris gives the example of cutting acrylic out for decorations, logos, etc. With a router, a shop will have to go back and polish the edges. But a laser machine eliminates this step since it creates a flame-polished edge. Lasers can also help on the installation side by allowing users to pre-drill
holes for standoffs or mounting equipment ahead of time as well as create mounting templates. “As you’re cutting out your lettering, cut it on the second surface and then laser in recesses where you’re going to put your epoxy to mount your stand-offs. Now you’ve got the exact location for your standoffs,” says Harris, who says a sheet of paper or poster board can then be put into the laser. “Then have the laser cut where those standoff recesses were in your lettering. You now have a template that you signshop.com
Photo: Gravotech.
How laser machines can expand your capabilities and bottom line.
