Eye On Equipment

Equipment for the Future

Karlen McLean, ABOC, NCLC

Edging specialization—like custom-designed frames and the ability to process advancing prescription designs, materials, and treatments—demands re-thinking edger purchases to meet technology needs.

Stand-alone or table-top edgers that are more design-centric and feature-rich are the key to in-office, lab-driven practice growth. These systems also need to be durable, userfriendly, and easy to troubleshoot and maintain now and into the future.

TODAY

Extra features are key, but don't forget basics for your edger.

"The essential aspects of a highly accurate frame tracer-to-edger, and automated features of safety beveling, grooving, and luster polish will remain constants in in-office finishing," says Steve Swalgen, national director of lab business at Santinelli International.

"More capabilities in regard to high-wrap frame styles with proper Rx control, specialty and customized bevels/tabs, and designability of lens shapes, including inscriptions, will be in demand," he adds.

In processing the latest designs and coatings in-office, lens preparation is critical. Matthew Vulich, vice president of marketing for AIT Industries, says difficult-to-edge, slippery AR coatings require correct leap pads and edger cycle options.

One example of creative edger manufacturing is the "bone-dry" edging process which allows easy adaptation to new or challenging lens materials and reduces slippage, says Amy Halloran, marketing consultant for Satisloh and National Optronics. Additionally, bladed cutters have an advantage over diamond wheels since grinding can cause extra pressure, she says.

And finally, balance today's versus tomorrow's needs. Russell Gagain, ABOC, NCLC, product manager at Gerber Coburn, says, "Special features like shelf beveling not only make lenses fit better in frames, they also cut down on additional handwork while increasing production capacity and improving quality output."

TOMORROW

When planning for the future, always factor in upgrades, especially software. "Complex frame styles and shapes typically represent less than five percent of lenses edged, and edgers designed for smaller operations have seen and will continue to see advancements," Halloran says. "This includes drilling, shelving, and even customized bevel profiles for difficult frame angles."

Be willing to train and retrain staffers on edger use, return on investment, and profitability. Heather Campbell, Briot USA's marketing coordinator, recommends a versatile, user-friendly machine for training.

FIVE YEARS OUT

The future efficiency of edging equipment relies on flexibility and adaptability. Campbell advises buying an upgradeable system that works flawlessly now.

Also, look for unique features, such as milling, drilling, and grooving, that will transfer well into the future. Gagain says that while the initial set up and processing takes longer, the one-stop efficiency leads to time saved overall. EB