Beam Dynamics' Lumen Digital Laser Cutters

At the recent SGIA show, Beam Dynamics introduced the Lumen? line of digital cutters. Utilizing a sealed CO2 laser instead of knives or routers like other digital alternatives to die-cutting, the Lumen cutters work from the same computer graphic files and registration marks used in printing. The Lumen combines can rapidly and precisely cut all commonly used graphics materials, and can perform kiss cuts and through cuts simultaneously.

The Lumen uses SoftTouch? Power Control System workflow software with a database of materials and the specifications to correctly cut them. Users choose the type of cut required (kiss-cut, through-cut, engraving) and which lines get cut, then the Lumen cuts the material, leaving clean edges that require no further post processing. It can cut Mylar?, adhesive-backed materials, polycarbonate, acrylic, sheet metal, paper, Styrene, and Lexan.

The Lumen can work with most graphics applications, including Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD, and CorelDraw, and can import from most other vector-based or CAD applications. It has a 48- x 48-in. cutting bed and cutting speed is dependent on the thickness of the substrate and edge quality. (Beam Dynamics: www.beamdynamics.com)