Graphco, exclusive distributor of SD-Italy’s cutting-edge Augusta hybrid CNC solutions, proudly announces the successful installation of the SD Augusta F150R Pro Hybrid CNC Routing & Cutting System with Auto Stud Welding (ASW) technology at Awning Innovations, one of the nation’s largest wholesale-only sign manufacturers. Installed in November 2024 at their McCordsville, Indiana facility, just outside Indianapolis, the system is already revolutionizing their operations with enhanced speed, precision, and efficiency.
Founded in 1999, Awning Innovations serves clients nationwide—ranging from local shops to major corporations—by focusing solely on manufacturing. That singular focus allows them to pour resources into elevating product quality, optimizing production, and continually refining both equipment and processes. Their investment in the Augusta F150R Pro is the latest example of that drive toward relentless improvement.
“Our routing department was always a bottleneck—even with seven routers from major brands, we couldn’t keep up,” says Frank Green, President of Awning Innovations. “After seeing the Augusta F150R Pro in action at the ISA Expo, the decision was easy. The speed blew me away—it’s three to four times faster than our other machines. We realized one Augusta could replace at least two of our existing routers.”
But it wasn’t just the speed that sealed the deal. The Augusta F150R Pro’s Auto Stud Welding feature added a whole new layer of value. Offering low-contact, high-precision stud welding, the ASW automates what was once a painstaking manual process—one that Awning Innovations relies on daily.
“The ASW is a standout feature—we use it all day, every day,” Green explains. “We used to engrave a circle and manually weld each stud using a handheld welder. Now? It’s faster, more accurate, and produces a stronger weld. And because it’s automated, it frees up our operators for higher-value tasks.”
That automation translated directly into labor cost savings. “We had someone full-time on two shifts just welding studs. With the Augusta, we streamlined that department by two people,” Green adds. The 0-tolerance accuracy of the F150R Pro’s 9kW router and ASW means the cut and welded panels all fit the rest of the process perfectly, saving lots of time downstream as well.
Chris Manley, President of Graphco, applauds the partnership: “The SD Augusta delivers the most efficient CNC routing and cutting solutions on the market. The ASW option is a true game-changer. We’re thrilled to see Awning Innovations pushing the limits of what’s possible with this system.”
Awning Innovations chose the 15-foot version of the F150R Pro, giving them more flexibility and production capacity. “Our biggest bed before this was 12 feet,” Green notes. “Now we can run full-length 6’ X 15’ aluminum sheets for large sign faces without seams. That’s a major benefit.” The F150R Pro is available in various table sizes, up to 24 feet long.
Beyond aluminum, the Augusta F150R Pro tackles a wide array of materials—including dense, hard-to-cut substrates up to six inches thick. Its robust capabilities make it a cornerstone of Awning Innovations’ very strong future.
Gary Greis, Regional Vice President of Sales at Graphco, sums it up: “This installation is a perfect example of how the right technology fuels real business growth. Awning Innovations is committed to quality and process improvement, and this investment proves it.”
Frank Green closes with a sentiment every equipment buyer can relate to: “The F150R Pro lives up to the hype—it does exactly what Graphco said it would. That says a lot. I’ve bought machines before that couldn’t back up the sales pitch. But this one? It delivers. I’m a fan. We’ll definitely be buying another.”
