ITC’s resident expert in the sign making industry has noted several trends from visitors the SDUK 2023, and outlines them here.
Sally Hunt from ITC says: “The Sign Show was once again an excellent event. What was noteworthy was that a growing number of manufacturers are buying digital cutting tables with high-frequency spindles and the machines require impeccably balanced tools and precision toolholding collets to keep tools balanced when cutting at very high speed. Using tools without sufficient training from tooling experts like ITC can lead to run-out, accuracy and subsequently performance issues. High-speed cutting without expert advice can result in poor tool life as well as inadequate surface finishes. At Sign UK, more manufacturers have realised they don’t have to buy from suppliers of cutting tables to ensure they are using the correct tools. Using quality tools without suitable support can lead to catastrophic results as all machines, set-ups and materials need to be adequately managed to yield the best results.”
This lack of expert advice is most evident among users of routing machines, as Sally adds: “Like the signmakers investing in high-speed digital cutting tables, a similar situation is occurring where routing machines are being purchased with ready-to-go tooling packages as an add-on. Router manufacturers are experts in routing, not cutting tools and toolholders. At the exhibition, everyone from entry-level businesses to experienced manufacturers with multiple CNC routers sought our advice and bespoke solutions.”
“The search for alternative suppliers was evident at the show with business owners identifying the need for high-quality solutions. Equally important to many companies was the fact that ITC products are British made. The desire to ‘Buy British’ was clear. The reasons ranged from our technical service and support to the fact that we can provide high-quality off-the-shelf and bespoke products with short lead times.”