At Rijn IJssel in Arnhem, they are using the BRM Original 6090 to their complete satisfaction. The laser machine is used at the site where courses in the creative industries and engineering are taught. Thanks to the laser machine, students can bring their designs to life.
Various courses make use of the laser machine located in the workshop. Among others, the Art & Design, Interior Design and Human Technology courses make extensive use of the laser machine. We spoke to Esther van Cleef, the practical supervisor who guides students through the laser-cutting process.
Sawing by hand is old-fashioned
Esther explains why they purchased a laser machine. “We use jigsaws, band saws and scroll saws a lot, but that doesn’t quite achieve the desired result when it comes to final exams. Thanks to the machine, the standard of the students’ final projects is much higher, and that’s a major advantage. However, students aren’t allowed to laser-cut just anything; only final products may be laser-cut. They must first acquire the knowledge of how to handle the materials.”
BRM’s service
Esther is very satisfied with BRM’s service. “I haven’t actually been familiar with laser cutting technology for very long. But thanks to BRM’s excellent service, I was able to teach myself in no time at all. BRM are always friendly when I call; I’ve never felt that my call was unnecessary. They certainly have a lot of patience, because I’ve often kept them on the line for ages!”
“They’re really excited; they’re watching in amazement as their design comes to life thanks to the machine.”
Design becomes reality
Students create their own designs and can then let us know that they want to make something using the laser. Esther then helps the students to create the products. “The students are amazed by what the machine can do. They’re really enthusiastic; they stand there open-mouthed watching their design become a reality thanks to the machine. Previously, they used to draw things by hand and then cut them out, but now they draw things in Illustrator. And then they can have their design cut and engraved by the laser cutter. The creativity lies with the student and the laser cutter can make it happen. That’s a really great combination.”
Thanks to the laser machine, the students’ final products look a lot more professional, says Esther. “The finish of the final products is much better. And they’re encouraged to be creative because what was once impossible is now possible. If you were to cut some of these products by hand, it would take a week. Whereas the students only have a few weeks for a project. So the laser machine really adds significant value to the course.”
