Deciding the best path
In the world of sign-making, precision and quality are essential. With signs and letters requiring various depths, lengths, and sizes, cutting a sign to a precise level is a priority for the majority of the industry.
Whether your work is done in-house, or externally, understanding the technology in the market and what is viable for your business is key to investment and growth.
CNC routers can come in many shapes and forms, with solutions for beginners, mid-range users, industrial environments, and even specialist machines capable of work like metal engraving.
CNC routers come in many forms from entry-level versions to specialist and industrial machine
So, what should be considered when investing in CNC routers, and how do they compare to other technologies?
Powerhouses of the industry
With so many various forms of signage required throughout areas like retail, events, and public buildings, routers are essential to producing bespoke solutions.
One company that has made its name in producing such signage is SignFab UK, a large trade-only sign manufacturer. Carl Hodgson, chairman of the company, explains: “We have been using CNC routers in our factories since the start of the company back in 2001.”
Speaking about the machines SignFab has found effective, Hodgson adds: “We currently have three AXYZ CNC router machines, all have 4m x 2m workpiece capacity. They are running continually, including shifts to maintain the levels of workload required to support the throughput of work for our two factories.
“These machines have always been recognised as the ‘workhorse’ of our set up. They cut high volumes of our aluminium and acrylic work. We use the very latest technology of machines and software, but also the very best cutting tools.”
When it comes to investing in new technology it is important for businesses to understand whether the kit will fit their business model especially with rising costs.
Advising on the benefits of a CNC, Hodgson says: “The main benefit is a very efficient way of producing high quality finishes for cutting the raw materials we need for all the large volumes of signage we have going through the works.
“Prior to having these cutting machines, the alternatives were very limited and far more labour intensive.”
As evident by Hodgson’s comments, routers have become imperative to the running of a large signage production facility like SignFab. With a range of routers on the market, sign-makers have a variety of options to suit the size of the products they are making.
Prior to having these CNC router cutting machines, the alternatives were very limited and far more labour intensive”
Small CNC routers can be found on a number of online outlets from manufacturers like SainSmart and Masuter, while larger machines are available from the likes of the previously mentioned AXYZ, as well as Opus and Mantech.
Opus supplies entry-level options such as the Olympus CNC router which features a 6kW air-cooled spindle, DSP (digital signal processing) control system, and an enhanced matrix vacuum bed. These types of machines are ideal for those who want the option of upgrading down the line.
On its website Opus advises the Olympus range for those entering the world of CNC routing, as customers have the ability to upgrade as time goes on.
For example, The Olympus PRO CNC router is described as “a manual tool change machine, which can be upgraded with an auto-tool change system when the need arises.”
Discussing the advantages and evolution of CNC routers, Opus says: “CNC router machines have evolved significantly and are more affordable, making it more cost-effective to bring production in-house. Opus CNC routers can handle the most challenging of jobs 24/7 and are suitable for many industries and budgets.
“We appreciate that purchasing a CNC router is a substantial investment; we always recommend visiting us before purchasing so you can check out the machine and meet our team. A demo of the different CNC machines also ensures the right CNC router is recommended.
“The company’s range of CNC machines have been installed in many sectors, reducing human error and material wastage, and increasing productivity and profitability. Industries such as campervan conversions, kitchen makers, exhibition builders, education, and sign and print benefit from the possibilities offered by an Opus CNC router machine.”
As with the majority of sign-makers and solution providers, service and quality is essential to companies like SignFab and Opus. The variety and requirements of the industry means working together to not only bring manufacturers and suppliers together, but also different cutting methods.
O Factoid: CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. The CNC allows the machine to follow tool paths that implement pre-made rules and instructions O
Hodgson states: “Our aim is to always try and improve the customer experience of all the clients we have. This has led us to not only have CNC routers, but our production facilities also have three of the very latest laser cutting systems available to the sign-making arena.
“By investing heavily in these lasers alongside the routers, we have all the options available to cut very high-quality finishes.”
SignFab’s investments, durability, and commitment to different, yet defined solutions means it can accommodate for its wide client base.
Hodgson adds: “We can cut a high range of materials, including the common stainless steel, mild steel, aluminium, and acrylics – but we also are able to cut brass, copper, and other ferrous and non-ferrous metals that many companies will avoid.
CNC routers can cut into materials like wood, acrylics, metal, and foam board
“With this level of investment in our equipment and our 162 staff, we offer a comprehensive and competitive service with quick turnaround.”
Right tools for the job
Just as important as the machines are the maintenance and tools required to operate them. When considering purchasing a CNC router, or simply understanding more about the technology, it’s important to look at the tooling that can affect what you’re cutting and creating.
LKH Tools, a distributor of the Crown Norge range of tools, which is based in Nottingham, offers tooling, training, and assistance to customers on the correct use of the tools with the materials and machine they are using.
Consultant for the company, Liam Hodson, points out the business strapline which is: “taking the guesswork out of CNC routing”. Hodson says: “We aim to achieve what we set out by offering high-quality tools, service, and knowledge to our customer base. We have two CNC routers in-house for testing and perfecting the correct settings.
Discussing the benefits of the technology, Hodson explains: “CNC routers will give the customer the most versatility compared to a laser for example. In most cases, it’s also the most cost-effective option. For the majority of customers who are looking to purchase their first machine this can make the most sense as it immediately allows them to cut aluminium, ACM, plastics and acrylics, woods, and PVC for example.
Many buyers of CNC machines may wish to visit testing facilities to further understand the tools and technology
“CNC routers can also cut to depths, not just straight through, making it ideal for folding ACM and creating pockets and chamfers which isn’t easily possible with other cutting technologies.”
LKH is an example of a business which is able to specialise on a specific area of the market in order to better serve its customers. The same could be suggested for sign-makers which need to have the types of customers and projects around them to justify the investment of CNC.
Speaking about the development of the technology, and its benefits to customers, Hodson says: “CNC routers have developed over the years and so has the tooling. A CNC router may have been limited to a number of materials and certain operations in the past, but now with advancements in both machines and tooling, the spectrum of materials which the tools and machine can now cut efficiently is wider than ever. This makes it the most versatile option for customers wanting to cut a wide variety of materials and substrates.”
Just like the importance of using the right drill bit on a wall, or a screwdriver on a screw, the tools and accessories for routers are incredibly important.
In regards to their importance, Hodson says: “With the introduction of our Superior coatings and our new range of GEN2 acrylic tools we have seen productivity and quality increase massively with customers. The Superior range of tools allows customers to cut aluminium, brass, and copper dry efficiently and quickly without coolant.
“The coating also increases the feed rate, quality of cut, and tool longevity to exceptional performance levels. The GEN2 acrylic range of tools were introduced to provide a near-polished edge on clear acrylic in a single pass up to 10mm. These have been a revolution for customers who want to eliminate a secondary clean-up pass on the machine or hand finishing. This reduces time, labour, and additional equipment costs.”
The next step
It’s clear CNC routers have a huge array of benefits with a large range of materials they can work with.
Many may look to utilise this technology themselves in order to have a better handle over the production and output of their products. While others may outsource the production of signage, or even the cutting itself.
Deciding on which route to take, like many business decisions, will all come down to the return on investment, and the way it can grow and diversify your business.
(Above & below) CNC routers share many attributes of 3D printers as the two technologies can actually complement one another in how they operate
Choosing a CNC router means looking at factors such as bed size, vacuums, and spindle types. On top of this there is also the software and control systems to negotiate meaning the knowledge and understanding as mentioned by Hodson previously is essential.
Discussing purchasing a router on its website, producer of CNC routers, Mantech, says: “With a new CNC router, you can bring all of your previously outsourced projects under one roof. If you consider quality control to be an important part of your process then bringing this process in-house will help you achieve the very best output.
“If you do spot errors, you can easily fix them and be back in production within minutes. That’s the joy of CNC ownership, you’re in total control of the process. The costs of outsourcing mean that it’s actually more cost-effective over time to manufacture your components and products yourself.
“Most of our customers are easily covering the cost of buying a new CNC machine by taking full control over the process.”
With the current energy price hikes, as well as inflation causing the change of business and spending habits everywhere, investment choices are more important than ever, and collaborating or working with partners can also be a viable option.
Regardless of where your cutting takes place, it is key CNC routers are here to stay, and this heavy-duty technology is a huge support for the signage industry.
Your text here...
