At 01:04 PM 9/7/00 CEST, GOAS HJP wrote: > >Hello, > >I have the project to engrave a sundial on a brass plate. >I would like to know if somebody has used a good technique to do that with a >great precision in order to obtain an accurate sundial. > >Than you for any information you may able to share. > > > Henri GOAS (Brittany, France) > Bonjour Henri,
I saw a demonstration of a remarkable engraving machine at a recent trade show*. The New Hermes IS-400 Gravograph is a small numerically controlled engraving machine that took computer files such as .dxf from CAD programs or .plt files for plotters and engraved the design on metal plates or plastic laminates. The usual use of the machine is the production of plastic laminate signs but it worked very well with aluminum and brass. When I described my interest in custom sundial designs, the salesman produced as I watched a free sample of a 200 mm compass rose complete with accurate degree marks and engraved lettering on anodized aluminum. The machine is probably quite expensive and best suited for production volumes but the salesman gave me the business card of a local sign maker who had such a machine and would engrave a dial from a computer file for less than US$50. I have yet to follow up I have more interesting ideas that paying customers. For details check the web site of the manufacturer <http;//www.newhermes.com> Roger Bailey Walking Shadow Designs N 51 W 115 *The International Oil Show in Calgary, Alberta in June was connected to the World Petroleum Congress. Among the 3000 displays of of oil and gas production technology, huge oil drilling rigs, 50 MW gas turbine/compressors etc was this little display booth showing the engraving machine. I am glad my day job took me to the show.
