A new CNC plasma adventure

We were introduced to the exciting world of CNC plasma cutting nine years ago. We already had enjoyed our MultiCam CNC router for almost a decade. Both machines changed how we did business and allowed us to create projects that we had only been able to dream of previously. The computerized machines took the grunt work out of our most difficult tasks. When we took delivery of the plasma cutter we weren’t sure how much we would use it but that fear was quickly put to rest. We have cut thousands of steel sheets through the year to create tens of thousands of detailed and intricate assemblies. There is nothing quite as fun as getting fanciful ideas while we design and build our creations and then being able to create the perfect parts we need in minutes. Sadly, nothing lasts forever and our MultiCam CNC plasma cutter is starting to feel its age. After nine long years of trouble-free service we discovered that in the world of computers a nine-year-old machine is ancient. We were sad to hear that MultiCam isn’t in the plasma cutter business any longer and doesn’t continue to support our machine. While we could still source the needed parts elsewhere we questioned the wisdom of pouring money into a well-worn machine that sees a lot of daily use. And so began a search for a new heavier-duty CNC plasma machine. We were looking for two things which were of utmost importance. We wanted a top-quality, well-built machine and we wanted to work with a company that stood behind their product with flawless service.

These days it is easy to search online to find out machine specifications. Unlike my initial research eighteen years ago when we first explored the CNC market, I now knew what all those specifications meant. I also knew exactly what I was looking for. Machine owners are eager to share reviews of their experiences, both good and bad and also how the manufacturers dealt with challenges when they arose. There were many machines out there. As I did my research one company quickly rose to the top of the pile. Fastcut CNC. They’ve been building quality machines for twenty years. The company is a small operation that takes a great deal of pride in everything they do. Amazingly, they are located just over two hours drive from our shop. I gave them a call this morning to find out more information. The owner, Russel Gallup, answered the phone and answered my every question. This man is passionate about what he does. He invited me for a shop tour and to meet his team. I immediately cleared my schedule and jumped in my Jeep for a drive to Kamloops. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing how the machines were built and I could sense the passion that he instilled in every team member. While the machines instantly impressed me, more importantly, I also found an instant friend as we talked about business, family and life in general. By the end of our conversation, we shook hands on a deal for a new, top-of-the-line Fastcut CNC G8 plasma cutter. I’m looking forward to showing it here and also showcasing the machine’s amazing capabilities when we take delivery. Stay tuned…. www.fastcutcnc.com

Russel Gallup, owner Fastcut CNC