Trotec Laser: Speed, Precision, and Opportunity

Trish Spedding, center-right, with other members of the Trotec Laser Team. | Credit: Wide-Format Impressions

Asked what’s new in the PRINTING United Expo booth to Trotec Laser, Trish Steding, director of marketing, had a few things to report. First, she said, the company was showing a new Vision Design and Position camera which, used in conjunction with camera software, allows for “quick and precise positioning of parts.” This innovation, among many to be found on the Expo floor, are designed to speed production while minimizing waste and human error.

Other innovations shown by Trotec Laser included its existing Ruby workflow, which Steding says is frequently updated to allow the company's laser cutting customers to take full advantage of the systems they possess. Further, a cylindrical rotary attachment enables users to laser etch or embellish cylindrical items including mugs and drinkware – an excellent add-on for PSPs seeking to serve the promotional products space.

As to what companies should consider before making their first step into laser cutting systems, Steding elaborated on the concept of, “you get what you pay for.” She shared that she has, “talked to a lot of people who went entry-level with their laser cutter, but they found it is not so good for production.” That said, she indicates that she finds today’s laser customers to be well-educated. “They really do their homework,” she says, “and understand what technologies will work for them. They want to find what works best for their needs.

That, in many cases, means finding a system that will enable effective cutting of acrylic. With acrylic, she says, laser cutting allows users to skip a step (flame treating cut edges), thus speeding production. Steding says laser cutting technology often fills a “sweet spot” in printing/cutting needs, and pairs well for sign makers. “It improves competitive possibilities,” she adds.