By Cassandra Balentine
Several finishing systems incorporate laser options for wide format output. The technology has become an industry standard for soft signage applications due to its versatility and precision.
For example, any of Trotec Laser’s range of flatbed laser systems, from the Speedy 50 to the SP 500, are ideal for cutting digitally printed fabric. According to Corey Kelly, marketing manager, Trotec, lasers give users precise cutting control and, when used for cutting polyester textiles, sealing the edges of the fabric, precluding the need for hemming or welding.
SEI Laser offers a range of solutions for cutting printed fabrics across various applications. The X-Wave Conveyor is a 63-inch roll-fed laser cutter. SEI Laser also offers roll-fed solutions up to 126 inches wide. “The X-Wave Conveyor is the fastest professional laser system for cutting rolls of organic and technical fabrics, delivering high speed, precision, and superior quality,” notes Steven Leibin, president, Matik, Inc.
Matik distributes SEI Laser’s TRUE Digital Finishing and Laser Cutting Solutions.
Summa is another finishing solutions provider that offers a range of laser cutters specifically engineered for processing printed fabrics. “Choosing a dedicated laser solution ensures high-precision cutting without damaging the conveyor system, thanks to a perforated metal surface that allows for efficient fume extraction from below. This design also minimizes contamination from leftover particles post-cutting,” shares Randi Kerkaert, product manager, Summa.
The Summa L1810 laser cutter is ideal for textile applications such as sportswear, dye-sublimation garments, and various raw materials used in the composites industry. It supports media widths of up to 1,845 millimeters (mm) or 72.6 inches.
For wide format soft signage, the Summa L3214 laser cutter features an innovative, on-the-fly cutting system that enables seamless production, yielding perfectly finished products ready to roll directly off the cutting table, according to Kerkaert. This model handles media up to 3,400 mm or 133.9 inches in width.
Zünd offers laser cutting as a modular tool option. The LM 100W laser module is compatible with the G3 series of cutting systems. It allows users to cut and seal polyester-based textiles in one seamless operation. “The laser solution is especially useful for applications involving silicone edge graphics, backlit fabric displays, and flags/banners, where post-processing (sewing) isn’t required, making precise, clean, fray-free edges a must,” comments Beatrice Drury, communications manager, Zund America, Inc.
Jul2025, Digital Output
