Cutting Through The Complexity

Don't Overdo The Bells And Whistles

With computer-assisted operation a given, what other features must in-plant managers consider when buying a new cutter? Spiel acknowledges that a certain degree of automation is essential, but he issues a caveat geared to the size of the in-plant operation itself.

"Everyone wants all the bells and whistles, but maybe 10 percent of the 25˝ cutters I sell have a computer—or need one," he says. "If you run a complicated shop that handles multiple, complex jobs, then you need a computer. But don't over-buy.