Drilling

What machine do we use for drilling?

When it comes to large format production, we need a versatile cutter that can handle a number of different stocks. Thankfully, that’s exactly what we have in the Kongsberg. This CAD cutter can cope with our thicker signage materials, such as Dilite and foamex. It can also give us less regular shapes such as exhibition stand panels and rounded corners on signage.

The CAD machine is incredibly precise in it’s cutting. It was mostly used when Bluetree operated its POS brand, however has been used for in-house development until the coronavirus outbreak, where it has been an integral part of providing visors to the wider public, and hopefully the NHS. 

We also use a manual drill machine in our dispatch area.
 

How does drilling work?

To drill these holes on LF, the following has to happen:

-A CAD file is created by our team

-This will then tell the machine as to where it needs to cut, drill etc. 

-The CAD cutter will then replicate the file on the material supplied. 

The CAD cut is used due to its versatility and has a maximum sheet size of 3200mm x 1680mm. 

Or they will be drilled manually by the machine in dispatch.

What is the smallest size product we can drill?
A6 is the minimum size. (Anything smaller is too dangerous as the operator's hands would be too close to the drill. Gift tags are die-cut which is why we can offer holes on this size).

What size are the drilled holes?

Small format 6mm
Large format - as specified on cutter

Can we offer different size drilled holes?

For Small Format jobs we can offer 4mm,5mm, 6mm. Please add to the notes which size is required for the drill bit.

This will not affect the price, it's just to ensure they get the right size.

Can clients have drilled holes wherever?

Of course! It may take more time to set up the CAD file as it’s not standardised but there’s no reason technologically as to why this can’t happen.

Is there an additional cost for the more holes they have?

No, there is no extra cost for the move of hole position or count. They will be charged for CAD Cut Custom so it will need to be taken into account on the artwork.

Can we offer drilling on flyers?

Yes, You would need to get the full specification and check this with production.

How do we know where to drill?

The client will need to apply a marker to the artwork. This can be a small dot, big enough for us to see it, but not too big that it is visible once drilled.

Can we drill through laminate?

No, we can't drill through lamination.