Laser, Plasma, Rotary, Waterjet Cutters

We use various sign-making machines and tools to cut sign making materials. This article discusses the different types of cutting tools and the materials they are designed to cut.

Design is only the first step in sign creation. Once an image or graphic has been applied to a substrate, (material), it must be carefully cut to create the desired sign shape. This is achieved by using a substrate cutter.

Each type of material requires a slightly different type of cutter. This article covers a few of the tools used to cut custom signs from vinyl, aluminum, and fiberglass. At FASTSIGNS® of Mesa, AZ, we use these tools to produce the high-quality custom signs many businesses have come to expect from us.

Vinyl Cutters

Vinyl is used in many different types of signs, so having a high-quality vinyl cutter is essential for the success of any sign shop. Vinyl cutters are available in two different drive motor types. These are called mechanical stepper motors and digital servo motors. Stepper motors are the most economical option for most sign shops as they cut accurately at a fraction of the cost of other options. Cutters equipped with a digital servo motor, a newer quicker digital version of the mechanical stepper, are much quieter, can cut much more intricately, and have superior tracking abilities.

Tracking is another aspect of the vinyl cutter. Tracking ensures everything is printed in the correct place Tracking is important in producing larger graphics like vehicle wraps and banners. The tracking will vary between machines, and it is important to buy a quality, large format cutter to accommodate large graphics.

Aluminum Cutters

When it comes to cutting aluminum, there are a few choices. These include plasma, laser, and water cutting. Each has its pros and cons, but all get the job done in making aluminum signs.

Plasma cutting uses electrically conductive gas to move energy from the power source through a plasma torch through the substrate. It is commonly seen as the fastest option and is used for various materials.

Laser cutting is another method which also cuts aluminum quickly; however, it is more precise than plasma cutting and doesn't require as much energy to operate the machine. Laser cutters also work well for cutting other materials like vinyl.

Waterjet cutting uses highly pressurized water to cut through materials. They are mostly used for softer materials like wood; however, with the addition of an abrasive material like sand, they can cut through tough metals like aluminum. The biggest advantage of choosing waterjet cutting is the lack of heat generated during the cutting process. It also produces no hazardous waste or residue while still being quite accurate.

Fiber Glass Cutters

Fiberglass can be cut with most of the machines previously mentioned. For smaller fiberglass pieces, a rotary cutter can get the job done. It is a small handheld tool which can make intricate shapes and designs from a sheet of fiberglass.

Our experts at FASTSIGNS® of Mesa, AZ use these tools and many others to make custom signs for businesses. Call or visit us today to get started with your order. We are located in the Commons at Superstition Springs.