CASES & TROLLEYS
RESOURCES

WHY WE CHOOSE 5 STAR CASES AS OUR MAIN SUPPLIER:

CNC Machining

 

There are many other technical features utilised in the design and manufacture of our products. For instance, company logos can be engraved into the plywood panels of the case, internal partitions, drawers and trays. This gives extra security for the customer as well additional product enhancement.

 

 

Obviously, printing limitations will not show the detail that can be obtained with the facility, but an idea can be gained from the two pictures of audio mixer ‘loom boxes’ with engraved wording. Not only text can be produced in this way but also graphics. This is achieved in a few ways. The easiest method is for the client to supply a high quality image of the intended logo or graphic as a computer file. If this isn’t possible, a paper version is also accepted, as 5 Star have available, 24 bit scanners to convert the printed image to file.

 

 

This file is then processed by a combination of Para Cad + and Mastercam to produce the necessary machine code for engraving. Some detail may be removed to assist the clarity of the engraving. However, a quality rendition of the logo or graphic will be possible.

 

 

The CNC Machining Centre is a Thermwood model 40. The overall machining dimensions are 2.4m x 1.2m and this model has a ‘daylight’ of approximately 150mm. It is equipped with a 5 position automatic tool-changer and a 10hp spindle. The control system is based around a standard PC, enabling easy maintenance and configuration. However, Siemens PLC’s are used for motion control.

 

 

Also equipped with the machine is a high flow Busch vacuum pump which holds the work material to the table. With this vacuum system, quick change of machined parts can be achieved, as no special clamping jigs are required. The machine is also supplied with an automatic tool length sensor which measures the length of the inserted tools at the press of a button, eliminating the need to manually measure and set each tool before use. The length of the 5 inserted tools are held in machine’s memory, even when the power is off.

 

 

The CNC system not only machines panels for cases but also foam inserts. As well as offering die cut foam inserts, since the investment into CNC, 5 Star can also supply routed foam products. This is particularly suited to low batch runs, where the additional cost of producing the die tooling is prohibitive. Again, the technical department can produce the CAD files required for equipment shapes, either from supplied items or previously drawn products. The foam is held in place on the table by the high flow vacuum pump.

 

 

Further information about 5 Star Foam Inserts can be found elsewhere in this online guide to 5 Star.