[Michael Kalisperas]

Thanks guys

[Michael Kalisperas]

I’m totally surprised to hear negative comments about Group101. Even recently a mess up with prints from my client where my client and I missed a part of antrailer wrap as the design changed james sorted out our problem right away. He was within his right to say F off. He answers my calls and I always get reply right away even when he was recently in Germany.

He sent me 8sqm of wrap printed and wrapped off his own back and free yes free to sort me out as my client was not the nicest and was pressurising me.

James and the team are the best.

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Ewan Evans:

I always allow an extra 250mm of plain banner material at the bottom of the print to make sure it’s fully wrapped around the roller making sure there is no tension on the glue strip.

Ewan.

Yes worth doing so thank you.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Ok thank you

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Robert Lambie:

Same thing I was talking about before Mohammad. “Chapter8 Regulations” 😆

Yes the film is expensive, they all are in this class. Just adjust your costs accordingly, it is the same for everyone and your customer will have to pay for this legal requirement.

ORACAL Reflexite VC612 Flexibright
ORACAL Fluorescent Premium Cast Yellow 7510

Unlike others, this material does not require edge sealing.

Alternatively you can buy this stuff by the roll, part roll, at the width you require.
will still need cut and laid at the correct angle, strip by strip. Simple enough to do though. but dependant on the material/brand you use, you may have to seal the edge where it has been cut.
I am not a fan of this, but you can seal with an edge seal pen or a strip of clear vinyl.

Any of this chapter 8 and regulation stuff related to article 50 and Brexit lol

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote David Hammond:

There’s a company up here who simply make composite trays. Flat cut letters (no locators or template) & clear acrylic blanks with polished edges.

That is all they do, and sell to the trade only.

Would something like that be an option? A few days to turn orders around, only 1 machine to keep running, and should free your time up too?

Sell the other machines?

I don’t get much time full stop to be honest. Hardest thing is not being able to predict your days ahead. It’s either carers are off , sick, broken foot, split up with boyfriend etc then we have all appointments and exhausted daily with lack of sleep it’s like normal life in our carers lives affect us because we rely on them as we have other children too. So I get pulled out a lot.

Have a sale on some of the equipment BUSTED my balls for printer enbroidery machine , laminator and All stock and inks which is a shed loads, plastic card printer and a3 printer and tools best price he says he can do is 20k which easily 15k short even if I price my printer at the lowest price of 10k it’s pretty new xr640 but he sounds serious and he’s local

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Kevin Mahoney:

Hi Mike, tried texting you this morning, have you changed your number?
Kev sign here

Sorry kevin just noticed your comment. Yes mate changed it its 07772118007

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Steff Davison:

quote Chris Wilson:

I think personally your offering someone a chance to buy into a well established business, taking a huge amount of risk out of there investment, with the flexibility of that investment growing. If I was to be that partner though i would need some sort of re-assurance that am not going to be left on my own, personally that’s why I would go down the apprentice route. I don’t know what English law is like but I look up here the other day and for someone leaving school you £3 something an hour (I was on £600 a month when I started in this trade). The safety net to this is if 3 months down the line your find there just standing around doing nothing you can cut them loose (harsh I know) but you then also have another business partner to bounce ideas off, pick yourselfs back up and try move forward again.

I dont agree with most of the above. They are not investing in an established business, by Michael’s own admission it isnt taking any money. Michael may have an emotional attachment to the equipment he has built up over a period of time, but unless that machinery produces income whats it worth?. He has to prove the business along with the equipment makes money, potential isnt worth very much at all. If we could sell potential we would all be retired.

I dont think taking on staff will work either, staff want to be managed, michael wants to be a silent partner. To hire someone who has the skills to build a business with the machinery you have would cost a fair amount of money, they have to run the business as if it were their own, thats a tough ask. If you could find someone how much would they cost?,£20-25-30K a year plus profit share/bonus?. If it doesnt work out, you are still in the same boat, less the £1000’s you have spent on running it.

IMO if you are ready to walk away from the business and not come back, then sell the machinery at what the market will pay. Clean break then onwards and upwards.

PS I am not interested in buying your equipment, so have no vested interest in my post and point of view.

I have the skill but not to run my own business I need to work either for someone else on a part time business maybe be better due to circumstances and like you say sell my equipment or sell most and keep printer for instances and run the odd job. The problem is the only machine that needs constant running is the printer so I would still be better off to sell the lot at market price. Which with the amount of stock I have is a lot. I was building myself up but reality is this candle is burnt both ends.

Reality is life circumstance changed and I don’t want to baby sit any new staff or take on additional responsibilities when my son is a major one already.

Thanks for your reply x

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Chris Wilson:

Difficult situation indeed…

I agree with Denise though. It is easy to buy cheap and build from there. Personally I wouldn’t buy another sign company.

I would go down the partner route. Sell a share in the company. If someone is investing cash then hopefully they are no idiot and will work hard to get that cash back. I don’t think it necessarily has to be someone from a signage background either. We have all learnt and still learning. There’s plenty of courses for vinyl skills out there, and part of there buy in would be cash to go on those. The hand holding as you say can be a very short process.

You might also find that a person with a marketing background or even running another business has fresh new ideas and make you both a ton of cash.

You could expand on this further and with the cash investment take on a apprentice at the same time. Build the company as a “team” with firm ground rules. Again it would take more pressure off yourself and your new business partner in the short to long term. I suppose you have to look at what’s best for you but also what is best for them, if you can’t be there all the time they need a bit of back up to for busy days and for times when things go wrong.

From your selling post you seem to have a fairly well built up business with a lot of equipment and a good stock of everything, so it seems like you have a good foundation.

That’s exactly it. The weakness is in me not being able to fulfil the business needs. In need to structure how I will attract a partner if I go down this route.

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Martin Pearson:

Michael, I really can’t understand why you have all that equipment to start with, you can’t possibly use it all as it should be being used as a one man band.
Rather than sell it can’t you bring a couple of people in to work with you meaning you would be doing a lot less so more time for your son but still in the industry & making some money from it.

Best of luck with what ever you do in any case :smiles:

`your right I am ambitious and foolish Its was more the fact I like being a Ione man band that did not need to reply on out sourcing as I often been let down in the past especially on CNC. The CNC was a godsend and I know I could use all this stuff if I chose to but the truth be told Im feeling tired and warn out by my situation not the business . SO time to sell. I had an enquiry today about the CNC funny enough.

Van was selling then the guy fell out with his partner and that has fallen through so all up for sake again.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Seriously a good quality vinyl flooring turned upside down works a treat. The one I have has squares on the back for cutting also perfect for alignment etc. You can get free off cuts from many floor places. I have the proper stuff and this works just as good and cost me nothing

[Michael Kalisperas]

Thanks guys getting loads of interest in calls and couple of viewings but not until next month. Everyone is busy in sign business lol

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote James Sahota:

Best of luck with this mate

Thanks James, I need to concentrate on family way too much going on with my son. So much more potential BUT WHAT CAN I SAY. 🙁

[Michael Kalisperas]

Big thanks Cheryl , James and Massove thanks for the chat Ian for taking the time out for me mate. I really appreciate that. Your a wonderful lot. I was once told Sign makers where not friendly by a customer of mine. He’s used me ever since which says a lot about the one he used before. I think I’ll give it one good last push. Thank you again for the inspiration words of advise and more than anything friendship. Truly humbled. X

[Michael Kalisperas]

You guys are awesome. After a chat with James from Group101 I have decided to employ someone and give it one last shot. A lovely lady noted I maybe depressed which is indeed the case. I think it’s the endless circle of not moving forward due to exhaustion that make you feel so fed up and yes as mentioned above self employed is lonely.

What makes me feel like I trust you guys is your all there for each other really are. I know James was looking for a printer like mine but he still wanted me to give it another shot for my best interest rather than his own. Top bloke you are James. I will try my best.

Thank you everyone.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Wife wants me to try a little longer but been suffering with B12 deficiency which should be sorted as I get the injections to help and my sons situation does not make it easy to be productive. I may churn it out for couple of weeks and see how it goes. How was it for you guys that were one man bands and thought about bringing someone in to help? I either do this or I leave entirely.

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Alex_Lyon:

Hi

Did you ever get a resolve to this issue, we are experiencing very similar issues with our Mimaki JV33 & JV34 on a certain 3rd party ink.

:banghead: :banghead:

Hope so I had them round cleansed heads etc and I have printed once since as I’ve been on a break. Not sure until I use more to be honest. Hope so because I’ve lost enough hair

[Michael Kalisperas]

Congrats mate. Looks great as I discussed will be signing in

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Chris Ranner:

Michael, I’ll take you up on that. I nip over to Worcester fairly regularly, where are you?

In Malvern but outskirts worcester in two months time just making changes to a new house for disability access for my son. Welcome anytime mate 07772 118 007

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote James Sahota:

Have the cap tops been done mate?

Yes James literally one block of colour will drop I’ll do medium clean revive then print then may go again or another totally different colour drop out. Bloody nightmare

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote DavidRogers:

ONE bank or across random heads?

I’m sure we’re all agreed that no ink coming out is basically no ink or negative pressure at the nozzles.

Obviously not blocked.

From experience if it’s just one / one colour, don’t discount the dampers as they’ve been changed recently. Crappy ink…with larger than usual pigment can easily block the screen in the damper reducing flow…I still think the idea of bubbles in the carts is odd as they are sealed Mylar(?) bags of solvent, but air will leak in at any joint with a failed o-ring (and not necessarily ink leak out) even as far back as the ‘spike’ that the cart pushes onto…right up to the carriage.

The cleaning cycle will pull ink forcibly to the head/damper…it’s amazing how much you can print on what’s in a non-flowing system. Still leaning towards a negligible air leak as isn’t the ink is drawn along the pipes under the minuscule capillary action/vacuum when the piezo heads squeeze out the ink droplets…easily negated if not 100% sealed from cart to head.

As usual, fault diagnosis via internet is nigh on impossible!

Dave

What’s strange is it’s happened on all buy the yellow inks?? Medium clean on specific head not on both and it’s back again. But this leak does not solve the crap adhesion on banner material?

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Chris j griggs:

Go back to Roland inks it’s a no brainier , what if you were printing a long run on
Expensive cast wrap and it dropped out wasting all that had been done Nightmare stress , nothing worse that being unreliable

This has happened and yes I intend to without doubt! I have 20 odd of their cartridges to be rid of, they should have replaced with my original setup not their variant of ink

[Michael Kalisperas]

No it’s not that the engineer is from a big company you all know. He did a good job swapping the inks and i don’t think the heads get blocked randomy because there would be a different issue. A clean of heads clears the problem but it re occurs after a few more prints. It’s definitely air not blockage

Plus these inks are suppose to be plug play compatible and they cleaned through before refitting new inks. Personally I feel I should have been put on the inks I was before Roland original not their own brand

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Stafford Cox:

That’s good advice from Dave. Could well be a fractured manifold. Also, there are a couple of o rings along the ink line, from cartridge to damper. They could be letting in air too. Try taking the top panel off and see if you can identify any small air bubbles getting in somewhere. Failing that, get somebody reputable to pop in a check it out for you. You’re going to end up spending a lot more on wasted materials and late nights than the cost of an engineer.

Stafford

I use to be a engineer lol

[Michael Kalisperas]

Changing heads is not daunting I have repaired many machines in the past. Anything from transistors on mother boards to microscopic fuses and re tracing lines etc heads and manifold are easy. All new parts just had this issue since changing inks from Roland.

The countless times a medium, powerful clean or even manual suction via tube from the dampers tells me alone that there is plenty of resistance and their is no air or gaps in the usual suspected parts.

[Michael Kalisperas]

It’s definitely not that as they have been replaced. I didn’t have the problem with original inks and they companies own technician suggested the carts can have air bubbles large ones. Also it can happen on any colour and on both heads so that rules out technical problem with machine. Believe me tried everything. You could do a test print and it’s like new only to find the next had 90% missing etc

[Michael Kalisperas]

For some reason I can see a day when there maybe a energy charge tax for sign makers doing high energy signs such as this. I know it sounds crazy but I bet it will happen. It maybe levied on the customer but it potentially could to sign makers also. Another random point is I drive past signs like this on my way to Birmingham and I seriously have concerns at some of the ads as they literally blind me as I drive past even from a distance. Am I getting old or is this an issue others find that needs common sense utilising or at least guidelines as I was use to when I worked at the BBC we would have UX guidelines for web etc. Surely the user doesn’t want to be blinded , startled and put off the ad in the first instance?? Please bare in mind "some" ads before I get lynched by keyboard warriors

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Hugh Potter:

I think there does come a time where you need to move to a unit but, don’t be forced into it by wanting to do van wraps! While wrapping is big business, the vast majority of customers who walk through the door think it’s a £500 job and – if they’re not swayed into doing something more realistic with their budget, you’ll never hear from them again once you put them on the right price track!

In the last 5 years I’ve done two part wraps, even with the 600ft farm unit I have now, I wouldn’t do a full wrap here. Even you have a heated, draught and dust free unit you have to think of the time frame involved, there’s A LOT of design work in a wrap, then the print prep, thats got to be a day easy. a New vehicle still takes hours of cleaning and prep (removing parts etc if need be), to wrap a transit size van is going to take best part of a day with two people, then re-assembly etc. I’ve heard a nearby shop is doing wraps like that for £1200, 2-3 days work, less materials and overheads can’t leave much for the bank! Three reasonable cut vinyl vans can turn the same invoice totals with a much higher return in the same time and with less headaches.

That’s obviously just the opinion of a small sign maker, but there’s a good reason for so many shops popping up and disappearing again inside 18months, they spend fortunes to set up to do wraps, 64″ printer, cutter, laminator, etc etc..

All that aside, when I moved into this unit, from a village shop (800sq ft) I cut down plenty of the crap stuff, all the bitty jobs that took more time than they were worth – in essence I stopped trying to be everything to everyone. After a very rocky 1st half of last year (due in part to invesment in this unit and building the new office) I concentrated on the jobs that make money, they’re not glamourous but they pay the weekly wage and the future is a lot brighter, after ten years I still want my own printer but in reality, with the good trade suppliers I use, I just don’t really need the additional expense / overheads at this time… (so the wife instructs me!).

Best of luck,
Hugh

I have much respect for you Hugh. True wise words and I remember yours to me a long while back. I don’t think sign industry is glamorous anyway by the way. Lol

[Michael Kalisperas]

I’m in a similar situation but don’t do Ebay all word of mouth. I have to run from a large outbuilding at my house which is like a double garage / barn style thing. It’s hard but in my case for the moment I feel I have no choice due to my son being disabled. I’m not looking to make it rich like a previous member mentioned above its what makes you happy that counts. Money is not everything although I appreciate it’s important. I run ok but what is hard is doing it single handily. It’s all about organisation. If I was you I would save save and keep saving then reevaluate the situation two years on. Good luck buddy

[Michael Kalisperas]

Could some kind of virus software affecting the recognition of the plotter. Just an idea.

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Robert Lambie:

quote Michael Kalisperas:

Customer is weary of costs so need two options.

Right there is a big question, what is his budget?
All too often we get very specific requirements of a CUSTOM job by customers. then at the end the “the price has to be right“.
Of course it does, but we the manufacturer then research, draft designs etc come to a price of this “one off job” and in a second the customer replies… “oh no, didnt think it would be that price, just forget it.” fair enough, you win some you lose some, but who pays for the time involved in getting to that point? “You do!”
I have got into the way these days of asking “do you have a budget” because we could be looking at £X-amount here? where i throw a price into the air and see what the type of response is?

You are correct in going the route of getting it manufactured properly for you. but how much work, draft visuals produced etc will you have to do before you can confirm a price and wait to hear is it a go or no? Do not get me wrong here, business is based around getting a quote to see if it acceptable. I am more venting towards typical time wasting customers where we need to weed them out quickly because they seem to be coming out the woodwork. 😕 :lol1:

As for the sign, If its projecting that far I would try keep the sign size to a minimum due to wind load.
Illumination would be dictated by the type of crest/sign you have made but obvious choice would be via LED’s alternative could be a light fitted to the wall projecting light on the sign.
very difficult to guess without visuals etc.

Your right and I have had my time wasted in the past. The owners have a large shop 5 combined into one. Logo is already designed but there was already mention of budget. I may simply offer a swing sign contour cut with as you say light shining on. The sign has to be at least 3ft by 2ft and would be in similar shape to this -see attached. They wanted it illuminated from inside but I worry about the strength double sided illuminated with it standing off so much. I just know the price will be high and it will scare them but have no idea to even quite on it to give them the option. Have any of you done similar and what was the price range? I appreciate the amount it varies but rough guide so I can throw them an idea.

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Attachments:

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Robert Lambie:

quote Emyr Evans:

Thanks for the reply, just the type of information I’m after. The Grenadier was upgraded to a lightbar about a year ago, but I’m not sure If I should go back to solvent as the white ink I can get with a new machine would be good for window graphics, etc.

You really need to weigh up the volume of potential white ink window graphics in comparison to what you can put out the door instantly using UV. This coming from a guy with one of the exact same machines as you!
I would stick with the Roland, versaworks and Lightbar. you know the machine, software and bar already.
furthermore i am about to replace my Grenadier and Lightbar for nothing other than speed in comparison to our Latex, because my grenadier is a much older machine. I will then be most likely looking at another Roland & UV combination, again, just like you are now. The durability of the UV Ink is bullit proof unlaminated, in comparison to anything else on the market.

I would agree and I have xr640 and don’t use white ink or metallics so I have empty carts which is a waste of potential but don’t get enough jobs to use. So what Rob says is spot on. I know the lads T Colorific are looking into newer machines and they will get sorted as the technology is ideal for signage. Personally wish I brought the Vs and saved lots of money.

[Michael Kalisperas]

I’ve done this very thing many many times and works a treat. Biggest mistakes when I started was not seating cables straight and powering off entirely the electrics including static charge. Also keep things clean and dry as best as you can as ink can run down cables into head circuitry. You don’t want to be soldiering out transistors and fuses on mainboard which I’ve had the fun of in the past. In fact I’ve fixed many of my machines bit i would never touch my new xr 640 that is too new for my hands 😉

I have two a3 Dtg machines I intend to fix have all parts new heads but no time so may sell on for cheap. Life is about time sadly

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Emyr Evans:

Look like our Grenadier is going to be beyond economical repair, so I’m thinking of getting a Roland VSi 540/640 with solvent ink or possibly a lightbar. Also considering the XR640 – is there any advantage other than speed over the VSi?

If I go for the solvent I’m considering having white ink and either light black or silver not sure which colour would be more useful.

Mimaki machines seem to be better value with a better initial warranty, but I don’t know much about them. Also what’s the rip like compared to Versaworks and does it come with free updates for life like Versaworks

I would be grateful for any help and opinions.

I have the xr640 and my friend has the Vsi and considering the price difference I wish I went with the vsi. Not to mention lightbar didn’t work great with xr640 if you want to use a lot of media and profiles something to do with dual heads and ink system layout?? But put simply didn’t work for me after months of trying but know the Vsi it works great. Sad because it worked great on a selection of media but not wide sign jobs. So if I was you I woud look at trade in offer with Roland light-bar with Vsi apparently they offering great discounts with trade in?

[Michael Kalisperas]

All of the above but a good idea it to add a post fan Heater and pointing it at the print slightly down angle to the floor has made big difference for me when I reduce the printer Heaters down. Also it will do this on thicker materials in contrast cold environment is what I notice but now have it Sorted to perfection. Also keep rolls like that in box for some warmth. Vinyl racks are nice but not for budget media.
One more thing is make sure your print head is in low position as that will solve over spray which gives a wave effect. I’m not hugely far from you feel free to pop down in worcester buddy

[Michael Kalisperas]

Surely a direct to board process possibly a uv ink is the best option for what your explaining?? And have you not tried a printable wrap material with quality high impact laminate ?

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Lorraine Clinch:

Depends on how large the labels are, I have great success with MD3 for all types of label. One customer puts them on the lids of her home-made preserves, and the labels wash time after time, and never fade either (Lightbar).
Why is it that paper for labels is more expensive than vinyl? It beats me!

Lorraine

Lorraine I have wondered the very same but my mind got so confused like trying to work out how space carries on so I gave up thinking and just pay it 😉

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Daniel Evans:

Hi Michael

Thanks for the offer but this will be an ongoing thing so I need to know that I can source the same stuff again and again, they are quite particular but that is the kind of price i like lol.

I would go with md3 100 then

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote James Sahota:

Guys on serious note if any of you want to come down and have a play your more than welcome…I’ve got stacks of coffee and my co workers will tell you I love to stop for a chat.

Coffee??!!! I should love the stuff being of Greek origin but I’m a English tea man. One day I’ll swing by when I have a moment. Most likely never to be realistic ;(

[Michael Kalisperas]

Well in pretty sure I don’t sleep!! One man business severely disabled son 24 hrs round care and stressed out with couple of jobs but slowly intend to team up with someone and get a healthy 12 hour shift in lol
It’s hard and I get forgetful but I’m proud to say I have 100% happy feedback and customers.

How do you take the plunge to expand is my question. It’s my biggest fear any one want to team up west midland lol no I’m serious 😉

Mike

[Michael Kalisperas]

We use 100micron 5 year stuff it’s lovely stuff and comes in 750 wide. Costs us about £40 for 50m role from memory had brought a load for a job. Still have some roles. It’s solvent based with clear adhesive. Where are you based can send you sample of you like to test. Alternatively md5 100 is also good. The stuff I use is from Italy but can’t source it anymore ;(

[Michael Kalisperas]

Cheers Simon I tried that and works better but second or third pass leaves a slight miss of cut leaving a string of vinyl because the second pass is just out.
Think I have explained that in a long winded way?

[Michael Kalisperas]

The over cut option would be ideal but I’m using versaworks at the moment. ;(

I think I may try a different stock in blue see if like the white it cuts better??
Thanks for your suggestions

[Michael Kalisperas]

The problem Phil is these are not laminated as its t shirt flex vinyl which is very easy to cut normally. But maybe the navy flex is thicker than the white I have no way of telling. I’ve tried replacing all parts that would wear such as blade first to no avail.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Hahaha Phil!!! Tried it but what is odd when cutting my white flex material no issue at all so I assume the dark navy blue for some reason that makes no sense is either thicker or more rubbery. I don’t know ??
I think I will lust laser cut the damn stuff!! 😉

[Michael Kalisperas]

Hi Chris thank you. No bunching up as far as I can see but I did keep the heaters on as in the past that has helped with cuts. But being the first time I’ve used this material you maybe onto something as the heat would make more rubbery which is not what I need. I’ll look into it tomorrow. I have two meters worth one trying to weed. I think it’s pointless wasting hours when if done properly and setup correctly it would take less time. Just frustrating because in some cut prior to this run it was fine but they were larger letter so the small tabs that get left rip without notice.

[Michael Kalisperas]

yes I did it was already set to .250 from memory which is the default for a 45degree blade apparently? I wonder if reducing it to 0 would allow more overlap??

Thank you

[Michael Kalisperas]

Still a very good choice.

[Michael Kalisperas]

I’m so lame and need to get onto this. I still struggle to get organised more than anything. A lot has to do with my situation with many hospital visits for my son yet ironically I know if I knuckle down and get organised and work out how to value my work more I know it would actually make things easier by being more organised and in tune with my business. I am looking at employing someone to help because currently I’m almost running my business like a hobby and ver hap hazard as and when because I get tired with everything. Currently I run and maintain my CNC machine , Embroidery machine, Sublimation printer, DTG flat bed chinese crap :), Roland print and Cut a laser engraver cutter as well as sales man, fitter, designer etc
I know many of us do this but there is only so much time in the day to design, print, engrave cut, advertise, network etc
I want to ask are there any tips that help a very small company like me getting organised and pricing. Cant afford clarity at the minute 🙂

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Jinty Burke:

OMG I’m putting window vinyl on a chip shop in a few days. It’s the first time a customer has actually asked me to install the stuff instead of just cutting and designing it. I’m not too happy about putting it on but now I’m dreading it! Any advice? I’ve done vans/lorries/cars, etc. galore in the past but never windows. The stuff going on is window vinyl and each window and door will have one LARGE DARK BLUE graphic on it?

Don’t worry it

[Michael Kalisperas]

Wow proves you learn something new everyday. I find it hard this happens. I mean we have had heatwaves and the same glass especially that thick can be found in countries around the world where there is soooo much heat. I’m shocked if this is the case!!
I wonder if its pressure During the application period. I would assume a small chip hidden in the rubber area the glass slots into. I’m in utter shock this can happen!!
Wow tell me I’m dreaming and I’ll wake up in the shower with the last job all fine 😉

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Joe Wigzell:

Footballer? WAG? ‘Tis a beauty of an example of ‘just because you can, doesn’t mean you should‘!

Joe I like the tyres !!

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Robert Lambie:

This has to be one of the ugliest wraps i have seen which has probably had a good few quid spent on it.
“Nasty Wrap” title, slam dunk! :lol1:

How to destroy a perfectly good car without Too Gear involved 😉

[Michael Kalisperas]

Also important!! Choose based on your ink set up and needs also 😉 I am back on Roland eco sol max 2 inks. I was running Colorific lightbar had some issues for several months with different media and lightbar and I decided to revert back. The team were very helpful but sadly in my case in the end I had to move on because of the differing array of media I use profiling was an issue for my machine. I believe in many other machines like the VS Colorific have a vast array of profiles but I just couldn’t thang on any longer. They have been very helpful as a company I don’t regret trying the light at out and it did indeed work amazingly well for certain media. In tempted in the future to buy a lightbar machine that has full profiling from the box. I can’t fault the team as I can see they have a great product but for my case I couldn’t wait any longer.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Personally I would opt for the XR640 great deals on now it’s print and cut and you have the added option of using your cutter for more cutting work. It’s two dx7 heads they are beasts and the quality and speed is amazing. Also consider that not all materials and inks can allow the print speeds exaggerated by the manufacturer so don’t just go for speed. As a general rule in my experience the two head option is better because it allows for speed without going to fast on scan and feed movement. Mind you I believe the xr640 is the fastest print cut by Roland anyway. You have the option of white ink rarely used metallic rarely used but the fact the machine with even a 6 colour set up can be extremely fast with high quality because of the light black and light colour options makes this ideal for most applications except printing winning lottery tickets 😉

I have this machine your welcome to test anytime

[Michael Kalisperas]

The lino is the way we do it for years and it works a treat. Best thing about it is it’s cheap and you can get large sizes.

Obviously good quality is important as already mentioned

[Michael Kalisperas]

Small letters can be made by laser engraver cutter and much larger bed but obviously more costly.

As for more sign usage I can think of many but the best is by far simple brackets to for Correx boards or hangers etc. Those bits that sometimes you don’t know what they are or where to get from but know you could make something that could solve the solution for fitting.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Firstly I’m terrible at pricing my own work always too nice and screwing myself over in the process. Trying to be strong. As you ask the question even for me I think it should be at least £12 square meter. I agree the efforts the blade wear the screw ups etc. Not worth it.

[Michael Kalisperas]

I can’t see where you gone wrong to be honest. Only problem could be needed more of a clean because as you know on new vehicles have the possibility of polish on the paint work and maybe but I doubt it, maybe not cleaned enough in the first place. It is worth mentioning it to hexis. Wish I knew mate but maybe more heat is needed and pressure again doubt it as your no newbie.

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Robert Lambie:

quote Stephen Morriss:

I was thinking more of the ink on other parts of the printer, like the wipers and other parts that get ink onto them.

Stephen, Do you mean is it aggressive on the plastic machine parts?
Quick answer i would give is no!
its not like solvent that will continually bite into the plastic and rubber parts of the machine. Which can lead to deterioration of the part and often makes them brittle.
example: snapping manifold pin and the like when changing dampers etc if you have had your machine a number of years. the plastic pin mounts get brittle. anyway…

The UV ink does not solidify anywhere near as quick as Solvents which can turn to a jelly quickly, which is why light manual maintenance cleans/wipes are required.
which is why you you don’t get the same nozzle heads clogging with the UV bar like you do with solvent machines.

For the record, I am in no way knocking Solvent Ink machines here, i would be a complete hypocrite if i was as i have run multiple solvent machines for over 12 years. I am merely giving you comparisons on how i find the uv inks in my Roland machine.

Spot on thank you for replying more in detail had a busy day and I dangerously texted my previous comment whilst driving hence why it was short.

Maintenance is very minimal , parts are prolonged but there is flaws but more gains than flaws.

Only flaw at the

Gains :
instant curing
Less maintenance
Less ink used so save money
Extends older machines life span
Supported by Roland themselves
More money revenue as print is ready saving de gassing time
Top company nice team of experts on hand

Not so great: (but can only improve and have workarounds )
Profiles for media needed not like solvent you can get away with generic vinyl profile etc
Limits to colour merged so minor but for instance yellow to black blends fir edges on magnifying. Work around though.
Wrap limits on stretches by wrapping is certainly possible just hard excessive stretches won’t work like they do with solvent.
Some material waste on lead edge to light-bar
Not as forgiving with dust particles as solvent is as pools round them like fish eye.

Very minimal issues but

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Stephen Morriss:

We looked at the lightbar on a Roland printer at Newtech yesterday, looked good and I think we will be ordering a a conversion shortly for our aging SP540V, I’ve asked them a few extra questions but one that current users will be able to tell me better is about cleaning.
As I understand it the inks don’t dry unless they go past the UV light so how is the inside of your printers with overspray and how do the outer parts of the heads look? fluff or dust sticking?
Is it easy to clean off?

Thanks
Steve

Well it’s not full solvent and I barely clean mine and have full nozzles.

[Michael Kalisperas]

One of the best suppliers i have found to date!!!

http://soyang.co.uk

wide range of supplies and they have something that matches your criteria.

Only recently found them and I am sticking with them for sure!!!

Phone: 0161 765 3400
Fax: 01282 772 982
Email: sales@soyang.co.uk
Website: http://www.soyang.co.uk

[Michael Kalisperas]

This is very strange. I just can’t understand why??
Yes tried slowing right down it does help a little but it’s still out.
When I had a service a few months ago the right hand pinch roller was replaced I’m wondering if that’s placing more pressure on the right side but surely engineer checked he left side to have decided to replace the right side?? Yet on other media I’m not getting the problem. So irritating.

[Michael Kalisperas]

I maybe wrong but doesn’t our work be scrutinised by the local authorities advertising rules. Planning being a seperate issue. So for example you need planning for certain signs but separating the planning aspect they have to adhere to local authority advertising rules. So possibly one may rule out the other?? I bet that don’t make sense but some how in my jumbled mind it does????

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote Gary Barker:

Hi All Im thinking of getting my old JV3 160sp converted, because you have all had chance to use / test the conversion would you recommend it ???

Thanks Gary

Will transform your jv3 just get the materials you use most ready as I have had a situation where before with solvent i just knew it would still print on any material practically but with my recent situation to print on roller blind that hides cigarettes at a counter I would normally had said yes I can do but because I don’t have profile for this material I wouldn’t risk trying. With solvents I would.
Just one example. Some jobs that i take on are so random. I know of your sticking to certain materials and get profiles for those then your laughing.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Yes my machine still needs profiling in conversation I was under the assumption it was change of inks and lightbar and plug and play. Obviously not the case entirely as it needs profiling and there are limits on certain materials. Generally though it’s really good and the no out gassing is a major selling point. The sale and technical team are top people. My issues are because my machine is new model that needs profiling as the ink sets are set differently. As for other models like the one your getting James I believe there is a large volume of profiles.

Because of the chassis on my machine the technician is currently redesigning the lightbar to be placed slightly higher up like it is on the other machines.

For older machines it’s a no Brainer as you are updating the technology and at a fraction of the price of a new uv machine.
A bit annoying is the amount of ink and material Waste on profiling I have been reassured will be sorted for this.

I will wait for more profiles before I can give full review.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Yes it works fine no cracking nothing even in deep recesses. I’ve only done couple of jobs since we received the latest profile as I have added the Lightbar on a recent machine the XR640 I used metamark wrap series material. One ward fanatic. I love the fact I don’t have to wait and even trailed a no laminate wrap after discussions with client wlth large discount to customer as we agreed we would test. So far fanatic no problems it’s been only a month but works great. Gives a nice shiney flat finish. I only found one issue and that is that I’m currently waiting on more profiles as with my machine there has only been a few done.
I have Md5 , MD7 MDPX Wrap, Banner, clothing print flex, renown vinyl profiles all coming out nicely. Need a few more and I’ll be happy.

[Michael Kalisperas]

:lol1: your probably right also no need for "weeding" boom boom

quote Martin Pearson:

quote Michael Kalisperas:

Not sure you need a course to learn how to wrap with this stuff 🙂

You certainly do Michael, the guy that fitted that one had just completed a landscape gardening course but I also hear that a green’s keeper training course is useful as well.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Not sure you need a course to learn how to wrap with this stuff 🙂

[Michael Kalisperas]

I personally would do as Martin suggested but get the clients to place their hand on the backside of the PETG snap frame protective cover Using acrylic water based paints let air dry and if you need to remove as its water based and just bend PETG its will loosen up not quite crack loads but enough to remove it would be easy. obviously the prints would be reversed but only hands so don’t matter also the PETG front side would give a nice pro glossy finish.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Check cables I would ring an engineer if it’s blowing right away but could be as simple as a cable not in properly or warn.

[Michael Kalisperas]

I think it will work fine. when I get mine I’ll do some tests. Mine will be on a XR640 so will have a better idea. I’m guessing the lack of a definitive answer is because there are countless Vinyls and I bet there maybe some issues with certain types of vinyls. Having said this I found this issue with solvent ink so don’t think it will be a biggy.
I think the boys are onto a good product here and I maybe regretting my purchase when things go wrong but I’ve done my research and I believe all will be ok.

The scratch test is the dogs. And I’m actually thinking this type of mixed ink UV/part solvent is the future for the best of both worlds. My biggest concern is how the yellow holds up in the sun but again spoken to a few companies that had this installed and no problems.

Only thing I forgot to ask is if it works on printable flex vinyl for garment printing
So bring in 14th April my install date.

[Michael Kalisperas]

My Lightbar is being installed in a week. I’m sure I read somewhere it worked great on wraps ?? Didn’t Rob lamb test and say it was good?? Rob can you confirm. I know someone did??

[Michael Kalisperas]

Just make sure everything is in place seated properly and clean and dry before your reassemble. Also be aware that transistor may have sent dodgy signals back to the head and damaged the head but very unlikely. Worth remembering though.
Glad to be of some help.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Welcome

[Michael Kalisperas]

Based in Lincoln here’s the number for all 07932 977615 his name
Is Richard.

Always best to go to main dealer for obvious reasons.

[Michael Kalisperas]

If you find the faulty one you can get it sourced from most electrical suppliers must match. There’s also digital print supplies. Not B&Q 😉

Also a company that will repair and test boards I know of also fixed another printer of mine years ago. Company is called Lumico mention my name. Top bloke sorted me out massively. Take board out pack well send in post he returns fixed. Lovely jubbly.
No trying to figure out. I may add he is a highly skilled bloke that fixes anything for a living not printers. He will fix anything literally TV, relationships lol

Do a Google search you’ll find him

[Michael Kalisperas]

That’s the ones Dan. Unplug everything. Punch a few keys to dissipate any static before removing. Take of main board gently heat bellow the board and pull up the transistor easy. You will have to sets like that and there will be a pattern so something like
See the pattern zig zag between the 2.4 this is an example obviously.

Transistor batch 1 to 12

2.4 / 1.0 /2.4 / 1.0 /2.4 / 1.0

1.0 /2.4 / 1.0 /2.4 / 1.0 / 2.4

[Michael Kalisperas]

I have no clue as I’m still learning not to undercut myself. Problem is whatever you charge add some extra because every job always has "that" annoying issue. Damage stock, takes longer than expected, traffic issues etc. I think I’m going to keep things simple and charge £1000 per meter. Sorted! 😉

[Michael Kalisperas]

Yes I’ve had this before on a old Versacamm

It was transistor and needed replacing. Actually quite easy if you can sold but make sure your replace the correct one with correct replacement. Check with multimeter in Ohms and you will see a pattern in the parallel set of transistors. They should have similar values that match on every other transistor so not all the same. I would definitely get an engineer in to sort. My problem was microscopic ink in socket that ribbon cable slots into that blew the fuse and transitor. Can take out the head also. But generally it all depends on bad luck.

I knew a good engineer as I’m sure many do. Pm if you need his number he’s based down South from memory but travels everywhere. Good luck

[Michael Kalisperas]

Sorry to here your leaving "of sorts"
You were a great help and welcome when I first joined and I appreciate that. I left he business only to come back to business after my son was made disabled. I want to wish you all the luck mate I’m sure you will be fine. If you posted this few months back I may have brought all that off you. Like you put silly amounts of money into business. Hope it works but we will see.
Anyway good luck with it all. And congratulations in advance to your marriage.
You will be ok.
Take care buddy
Mike

[Michael Kalisperas]

Ordered mine 😉

[Michael Kalisperas]

Alex I would still need windows to install on mac and vmfusion.

I did think this bit wondered how well it ran?? I shave the latest MacBook 2.8ghz and sometimes the latest equipment runs crap until full bugs are ironed out.

May look into it as my dell i5 laptop top spec only year old used just as a rip is slowed right down. Can’t see why loads of space?

[Michael Kalisperas]

I was impressed with Radecal stand!! Colorific and Roland collaboration makes me happy like tequila 😉

I brought some banner ups always eyelet my banners but the test the guy did was shocking how well a flat piece of plastic worked compared to eyelet. I may drop eyelets all together depends on cost.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Problem solved.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFWp1rvA9cs

[Michael Kalisperas]

Shaun I can’t wait. I know people will be like you can do it all free in versaworks and on a PC but I know from "my experience only" that over 20 years macs NEVER CAUSED ME ISSUES I started with PCs and feel macs run more logically. I am prepared to fork out the extra for the new software the new interface is clean elegant and I bet you will pick up instantly. Versaworks is fantastic but I want to keep my operating systems the same for personal reasons before I get the usual onslaught of PC fans ready to stone me. I am a PC user also and will continue to be but wish I didn’t have to.

Some of the new features are promising too. Hopefully will come soon. Would have been nice if it was free like versaworks bit unfair bit hey ho

[Michael Kalisperas]

Did one looks identical a few months ago try 25mm stretch

[Michael Kalisperas]

RELEASE DATE NEEDED
SO WANT THIS 🙂

[Michael Kalisperas]

It will be released soon but the fact they have made something for the Apple operating system has made me very happy 🙂 its also has some nice new features currently not in versaworks. Stretching jobs, alto grommet locations etc loads more just a few off memory 🙂

[Michael Kalisperas]

Good seeing you James Sohota. I’ll be flying by Thursday maybe even tomorrow no time to check everything so wouldn’t mind another visit.

[Michael Kalisperas]

I am so so so happy to read this thread!!!
Endless headaches, viruses etc never had on one of my PC’s and never had on my Mac EVER. So this is a welcome release

[Michael Kalisperas]

Perspex are fantastic ask for Mouricio really helpful guy

[Michael Kalisperas]

quote John Harding:

Excellent Idea Michael

So thats All day at the bar 😀

should be easy enough for everyone

John

For sure!!! And I don’t drink not for any religious or health issues but because I got married and have a leash :lol1:

[Michael Kalisperas]

Well fantastic news for me my son has just released from hospital and is doing well after almost two weeks. So I will be going to sign and digital but spending most of the day at the BAR!!!!

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Attachments:

[Michael Kalisperas]

Try these guys.

http://www.machineryandelectrical.com

[Michael Kalisperas]

Anyone recommend a brand that is reliable and affordable?? I have seen some hacked Epsons that look ok but doubt they are?

[Michael Kalisperas]

Thank you any help is appreciated

[Michael Kalisperas]

I did plan to go to expo, but obviously this takes priority and looking remote. I may pop in between swapping with wife and carers at hospital, so you never know could see you?

[Michael Kalisperas]

Welcome Tas I will be there this year buddy.

[Michael Kalisperas]

Jamie your like the God of fonts. I’m going to big you every time I have a don’t query 😉
Your on it every time. I for one appreciate your membership buddy!