2014 - Laser Cutting & Engraving

There is visual evidence of painted images and engraved symbols in prehistoric caves dating back more than 20,000 years. In a sense, we humans have not created much in new forms of art during that time. However, in the last 30 years alone, the advances in signwriting technology has been truly phenomenal with the transfer from manual to computer work. At the same time, this new technology seems to have increased employment in our industry and not reduce it. Our small ‘signwriting’ business now employs 11 people, not including those who indirectly employed.

I looked at many engraving machines over the years but because the process seemed slow and tedious from a customer service point of view we were reluctant to invest earlier in it. But after seeing the latest laser machines fly through the work during exhibitions we had no hesitation in purchasing a new state-of-the-art engraving machine. This machine cuts with laser beam precision and because there is no other contact with the material it results in a smooth clean cut on finished work. It has also been especially helpful for larger size jobs in combination with our existing router. I have great expectations for this technology in our business going forward as it opens up lots of exciting possibilities in the service we can provide for customers.