Large-format printing business The Big Ink Tank has invested in a new VeloBlade Nexus 2516 wide-format digital die cutting solution from Soyang Hardware, saying it plans to use the machine to expand its service offering and win new customers.
Based in Coventry, The Big Ink Tank offers a range of print services, specialising in exhibition graphics and large-format work for galleries and museums. The printer works with a number of high-profile clients including Peugeot and the Royal Shakespeare Company, as well as major local customers such as Coventry Building Society and Coventry University.
While already having an expansive service offering and customer base, The Big Ink Tank is always on the lookout for new opportunities and ways it can deliver more for clients. This thought process was a key part in its decision to invest in the VeloBlade Nexus 2516, a specialist machine manufactured by Vivid Laminating Technologies and distributed by Soyang Hardware.
One of four machines in the VeloBlade Nexus range, the 2516 is a wide-format digital die cutter with a bed size of 2,500mm x 16,00mm. Combined with a CNC router, the system enables users to work with stocks up to 25mm in thickness such as Dibond, MDF and acrylic.
Purchased in December 2023 and installed just a few weeks later in January 2024, the VeloBlade Nexus has become an integral part of the production setup at The Big Ink Tank. Working alongside other machinery, the cutter has already been put to work on a range of applications, with its innovative automation capabilities making life much easier for staff.
“The VeloBlade Nexus fits in with our existing workflow by allowing files for cutting, routing and creasing to be automatically uploaded with minimal input from our team,” The Big Ink Tank’s founder, Ty Power, said. “We are really benefitting from the speed of the machine; we no longer have to change the tools as they are automatic.
“The quality of the cutting is also excellent, while the fact that the vacuum keeps the cuts so clean results in a huge time saving. We are still learning about new processes that we can then launch into the market.”
With this in mind, Ty said the focus for The Big Ink Tank is on how it can use the new machine to expand its offering and serve customers in new markets. This, Ty said, will involve speaking with its clients and working with specialist staff at both Soyang and Vivid Laminating Technologies to ensure the company gets the most out of the new device.
“Soyang is a long-term supplier for us; they are a great company to work with and really knowledgeable,” Ty said. “Vivid are also very interested in looking after you as a customer. So far, the training and interaction has been excellent.
“We are keen to demo the machine to our existing customers showing them all the new materials and options we can offer. It will open up more varied work and hopefully win us new customers.
“We are really excited by all the new product types we can offer and getting to learn what we can do with the machine.”
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