Plan for the Future Software next and SAi specialises in solutions for CNC routing, primarily with its EnRoute products. Philippe Meyer, product manager for EnRoute Software at SAi, urges sign-makers to look for CNC kit, tools, and software that can handle the work they do today, but also provide flexibility to grow and expand into different types of signs in the future. “Sign-makers need a machine that can “We’ve seen more and more customers process different types of materials – often more rigid such as plywood and non-ferrous metals,” Recinos says, adding: “Many low power CNC routers or fast knife cutting machines do not have the rigidity to process these tougher materials at production level speeds.” Recinos says the Trident machine from AXYZ remains its best overall solution, designed to process more than 500 different materials ranging from zinc to corrugated cardboard. “We’ve seen more use cases for longer-format machines where a 16” machine may be split into two sections to run continuous operations,” he explains, continuing: “While an operator loads or unloads material on one side; on the opposite end, you have the machine cutting fresh new material essentially doubling production. “ For sign-makers that are more focused on processing non-ferrous metals and plastics, Recinos says METALWorker products bring to the table higher performance, an exceptional user interface, and greater cut quality.” handle the materials that they intend to route with accuracy,” Meyer explains, adding: “While the tools also depend on the materials to some extent, in general, a standard kit of end mills, ball nose mills, conic tools, and engraving bits will provide them with a wide range of capabilities. “When considering software packages, sign-makers should opt for a total-solution software that can design, toolpath, and output. The best software will be able to do 3D designing and handle third party files as well as generate the tooling for it. A software package like SAi EnRoute can do this, as well as provide additional functionality for other types of jobs. “In addition, a software program should have driver support for different CNC machines. Should they want to expand their business into another field or take on jobs that are outside of the classical sign-making business from time to time, EnRoute software can handle those as well.” While Meyer says sign-makers should consider upgrading to gain access to the newest features of the software and to maintain their level of support, with SAi’s subscription model, upgrades are no longer necessary as customers will always have access to the latest released version, and the support that goes along with it. As for the latest developments at SAi, Meyer highlights EnRoute’s Rapid Texture and parametric texture options, which he says continue to be popular with sign-makers for creating unique custom designs. A new ‘Peeled Pole’ texture has also been added to the texture library. In the latest version of EnRoute software, SAi has added support for profile tools, both in simulations as well as in the tool pathing. “Our Corner Fine strategy will allow you to add an additional finer ball nose that will automatically clean up the inside corners according to the profile tool that was used, giving your signs a classic finish,” Meyer says. ▼ SAi’s latest EnRoute software has support for profile tools, both in simulations as well as in the tool pathing We’ve seen more and more customers process different types of materials – often more rigid such as plywood and non-ferrous metals ► AXYZ says its Trident machine remains its best overall solution BACK TO BASICS / CNC ROUTERS AND SOFTWARE The Trident from AXYZ can process over 500 different materials 500 46 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 247 - June / July 2023
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