Trotec laser cutter features on Channel 5's Gadget Show

The Gadget Show host Jon Bentley with the Trotec Speedy 400
The Gadget Show host Jon Bentley with the Trotec Speedy 400

Trotec’s flagship laser engraving and cutting machine has appeared on Channel 5 programme The Gadget Show to mark the 60th anniversary of laser technology.

The Speedy 400 model was put through its paces on the TV show by host Jon Bentley during a segment which showed the evolution of the laser since it was invented by Theodore Maiman in 1960.

Trotec Laser UK marketing director Siân Sweeney, who was initially approached by The Gadget Show's assistant producer, said the company was “delighted to help out”. Filming took place in August and the show was aired on Channel 5 on 27 November.

Trotec area manager Jamie Wakefield was on site to install the machine and ensure that everything went smoothly on the filming day. He also took some behind-the-scenes photographs.

“Jon was really excited about the Speedy 400, as were the rest of the film crew,” said Bentley.

“Jon wanted to check with me that he was using the correct terminology when talking about the laser.”

The Speedy 400 features a 1,016x610mm working area with an engraving speed up to 4.2m/sec and 5g acceleration.

Separately, Trotec has launched a new range of engravable PU leather. Commercially available immediately, LaserLeather comes in six different colour combinations with a sheet size of 813x508mm.

The two-tone artificial leather features a contrasting core and cover layers. Trotec said that when laser engraving the material, even fine lines will reveal the core colour, enabling everything from fine designs to detailed artworks to be created on applications including fashion accessories and promotional items.

LaserLeather is said to require less maintenance than traditional leather and is soft to the touch, while also being vegan friendly.