Printos achieves cleaner edge quality with a Speedy 400

Founded in 1977 and based in Aichi, Japan, Printos Co., Ltd. specializes in industrial nameplate manufacturing using advanced printing and resin processing techniques. Their products range from acrylic panels for ticket machines and hospital kiosks to control panels, warning labels, and company stickers. With in-house integrated production, they handle a wide variety of small-lot orders. They also offer custom printing services on customer-supplied items.

The company began incorporating laser cutting technology around 2008. The goal was to enable manufacturing based on Illustrator data. Traditional plastic cutting methods required CAD data and specialized software skills, whereas Illustrator files are more versatile and well-suited for use with laser cutting machines.

While the machine was initially used for cutting plastic, it is now mainly used to cut double-sided adhesive tapes for mounting display panels. These often require precise shapes to match the contours of each panel. Laser cutting makes this easy to achieve with accuracy and detail.

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for thicker double-sided adhesive tapes, including waterproof and high-adhesion types. While mechanical cutting plotters often struggle with adhesive residue on the blade, laser cutters provide clean, contact-free processing, making them ideal for these materials. The company also uses laser cutting for soft film materials.

To meet customer needs for lower upfront costs, the company offers laser-based nameplate production that eliminates the need for physical dies. This approach offers a flexible, cost-effective alternative for short runs and customized orders.

After years of using a competitor’s laser cutter, the company began experiencing issues due to aging equipment. In October 2024, they decided to upgrade to Trotec’s Speedy 400. Already impressed by the performance of their Trotec Atmos exhaust system they confidently chose Trotec without considering other brands.

The Speedy 400 combines high productivity with excellent precision—perfectly matching their production needs. Trotec’s strong maintenance support and service plans were also key to their decision.

Since installation, they’ve seen clear improvement in efficiency. A tape-cutting process that used to take 15 minutes now takes just 12. The autofocus feature , which automatically adjusts the focus height, has also helped streamline their workflow.

Additionally, cut quality has improved: the tape edges are now clean and free from sticky residue—an issue they faced with the previous machine. Even complex shapes are cut cleanly with the Speedy 400.
Beyond adhesive tape, they also use the machine to cut PET film for anti-static use and drill holes in acrylic sheets. The acrylic edges come out smooth and polished, ensuring a high-end finish.

The company designs in Illustrator and imports the data into Ruby®, Trotec’s laser software. With powerful editing tools like the array function, Ruby® simplifies layout adjustments and speeds up production.

They also use the laser system to create inspection jigs and storage tools for replacement parts, supporting ongoing process improvements.

As the nameplate industry shifts toward direct printing without screens, demand for laser processing continues to grow. With the Speedy 400, the company aims to strengthen its flexibility in high-mix, low-volume production and deliver even greater value to its customers.