LARGE-FORMAT LASER CUTTING FOR OPTIMISED POST-PRINT EFFICIENCY

In today’s print industry, there is a demand to increase customisation, shorten production runs and increase automation. As a result, business models are being redefined and finishing processes have become more critical than ever. High precision, flexibility and seamless integration into digital workflows are no longer optional – they are essential.

Based in Germany, eurolaser GmbH addresses these challenges with a technology platform that combines CO₂ laser cutting with intelligent automation. These two factors enable reliable, high-quality processing of printed materials in large formats.

The company’s solutions are particularly relevant for soft signage, advertising production and other applications. For these products, clean edges, registration accuracy and efficient roll-material handling are key. Thanks to a modular design and open-system architecture, eurolaser systems integrate smoothly into existing production environments. Additionally, they offer significant advantages over conventional mechanical cutting methods.

“eurolaser systems integrate smoothly into existing production environments”

Modern advertising and textile applications often involve demanding substrates. These include stretch-sensitive polyester, acrylics, composites or multilayer films. These materials can prove challenging for traditional die-cutting, plotting or knife-based processes. They may result in edge fraying, tool wear or material distortion.

In contrast, laser cutting, is a thermal, non-contact method. The laser beam delivers high precision without mechanical force. It therefore eliminates the need for clamping, reducing setup time and ensuring consistently smooth edges. For synthetic textiles, in particular, the laser seals the edges as it cuts. This prevents fraying and removes the need for manual finishing. It not only enhances product quality, but also reduces labour costs and accelerates throughput.

A standout feature of eurolaser systems is the POSITION+ professional camera-based recognition system. This advanced optical tool detects fiducial marks, contours, print patterns or existing shapes on the material. With a full-area scan, the system automatically identifies reference points and aligns them with the cutting data.

The software calculates precise cutting paths and compensates, in real time for distortions, shrinkage or material stretch. Pattern matching, contour alignment and correction of print misalignments are fully automated. This capability is especially valuable in print-and-cut environments, where high registration accuracy and process reliability are essential.

Additionally, automated job recognition, via QR code, supports just-in-time production workflows. This makes the system ideally suited for digital print-on-demand (POD) environments.

“A standout feature of eurolaser systems is the POSITION+”

In the fast-growing soft signage segment production, efficiency is critical. Printed textiles are used for banners, retail displays, trade-fair systems or illuminated graphics. eurolaser systems offer a tailored approach. The combination of conveyor-based material feed, edge-controlled unwinding units and optional rewinding modules enables seamless roll-to-roll processing.

Material tension is continuously regulated by the automated feed mechanism. Meanwhile, the laser delivers uninterrupted cutting performance. Adjustable vacuum tables and textile-specific table configurations further optimise handling. The result is a highly efficient workflow, with minimal manual intervention and consistently high output. This is true even in multi-shift operation.

While CO₂ laser cutting is suitable for a wide range of non-metallic materials, certain substrates – such as PVC – require alternative methods. eurolaser addresses this with a modular-system architecture that allows mechanical tools to be added directly to the laser platform. These include milling heads, creasing tools and kiss-cut units.

This hybrid configuration allows for greater application diversity, using a single machine setup. Switching tools is quick and intuitive. In addition, the system supports parallel laser and mechanical processing. This helps to minimise downtime and eliminates the need for additional machinery, enhancing both flexibility and space efficiency.

One clear example of the system’s real-world advantages is Probo. Probo is a Dutch, large-format, print-service provider (PSP) supplying a broad range of visual communication products to resellers across Europe. To meet growing demand – without compromising on quality or lead times – Probo relies on several eurolaser systems.

Erwin van der Sloot, Production Manager at Probo, says, “The large-format eurolaser systems fit our requirements perfectly.” He continues, “Cutting quality and fast delivery are very important to our customers – and both are achievable with eurolaser.” He concludes, “The cutters run reliably, even in multi-shift operation and process job after job with excellent consistency.”

Probo’s ability to meet tight deadlines, while maintaining high and repeatable quality, is largely due to the reliability and versatility of its eurolaser systems.

“Probo relies on several eurolaser systems”

Another advantage of the eurolaser platform is its open and software-independent architecture. The systems support all major CAD and graphic file formats and can be integrated easily with RIP solutions and digital-workflow tools. This eliminates the need for proprietary software or file conversions.

eurolaser also provides extensive service support – from material testing and consultation to training, maintenance and remote diagnostics. This support ensures customers benefit not only from high-performance systems, but also long-term process stability and a reliable partner for future needs.

eurolaser systems offer more than just precision laser cutting. They deliver a holistic, process-oriented solution for the print industry. With automation, material versatility and seamless system integration, PSPs can reduce manual workloads, increase output and respond quickly to changing market demands.

For companies in soft signage, advertising or digital printing, eurolaser represents a future-proof investment. It meets scalable and flexible solutions that are built to meet the requirements of a dynamic, data-driven production environment.