59 Issue 251 - February / March 2024 email: news@signlink.co.uk ETCHING AND ENGRAVING While the world continues to change around us with the evolution of digital technologies and the ongoing influx of artificial intelligence, there are some things that will, at heart, remain the same. Engraving and etching signs are among those. It is true that sign-makers are changing the way that they go about carrying out these tasks, with new machinery taking some of the workload off what was – and in some cases is still – a manual process. However, the actual finished product is, in essence, the same as it has always been, be it with far smoother finishes and higher accuracy than signs of the past. With this in mind, SignLink caught up with several manufacturers and providers within the engraving and etching markets to find out more about their latest offerings in terms of new machinery, as well as what sort of trends they have picked up on across the wider industry. Rely on your Kit First up to offer advice and guidance is Trotec Laser, which provides laser machines for precise engraving, marking, and cutting in printed and signage work. Bryan Jater, sales director for Trotec Laser in the UK and Ireland, says making the right investment call here can be something of a head-scratcher for sign-makers, urging companies to ensure they commit to highquality and reliable equipment. “Ultimately, business owners need production and finishing equipment that they can rely on,” Jater says, adding: “Opting for badly specified or inferior equipment can lead to missed orders, compromised quality, and ongoing expense due to frequent downtime and maintenance headaches. “Investing in high-quality equipment mitigates daily operational stress and unexpected costs that often accompany less reliable options. Trotec engraving machines are synonymous with precision and durability, they guarantee consistent results and swift processing. These machines are designed to endure, requiring minimal day-to-day maintenance and offering seamless job changes and set up.” Jater went on to say that there is a sense of confusion around the types of technology in the market when it comes to purchasing a new laser. To make the process easier, he explains that lasers can be split into two categories: laser cutters and laser cutter/engravers. Going into further detail, Jater says laser cutters tend to have glass laser sources and are the cheaper option, but if a business is keen to engrave at any kind of speed or quality, they will ideally need a machine with a ceramic laser source. “A reputable laser supplier will work with the client to ensure the best laser source is specified for the job,” Jater explains, ENGRAVING EXCELLENCE One of the oldest and most-loved forms of sign-making, we take a look at the etching and engraving markets to find out more about the latest developments and advice for those seeking to purchase new technology ▲ Trotec Laser provides laser machines for precise engraving, marking and cutting
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