Jigs for 4x8 UV flatbed

[Grnthumb45]

We are adding a 4x8 UV flatbed to our sign shop. We will be using it for home decor, wood signs, etc. My question is...

What is the best substrates to make fixtures/jigs to put blanks in? And suggestions for storing. multiple jigs?

Thanks in advance. We've been considering and debating pros and cons of different materials as well as storage.

 

[FireSprint.com]

Have not messed with this in a long while, but we used 1/2" pvc in the past.

I would think mdf or hdpe would work as well.

 

[FireSprint.com]

I'm talking about routed jigs for pens, golf balls, etc

 

[rjssigns]

Is the fixture going to be static or changed multiple times per day? If it's going to be static then anything that will correctly index the parts will work.
Once it gets monkeyed up with ink just pitch it and make a new one.
Trying to remember the name of the stuff we have in the lab. Cardboard core with white face, ~6mm thick and quite rigid.

If it's getting changed multiple times per day then you want something that can be handled/stored without damage.
My vote would be aluminum. Once and done and when it gets caked up you can clean it with solvent

 

[Grnthumb45]

We primarily do signs and I'm probably going to combine laser cut elements or CNC carving with the UV printing. I know we will be doing smaller block signs as my lasered ones have done well.

We considered plywood, but I'm concerned with storage over time if not stored flat, plus weight. Thought about using chloroplast... Right now I'm a one-woman shop and although I'm pretty capable, I don't want kill myself manhandling heavy jigs.

Karen

 

[johnnysigns]

We've used laser cut patterns out of 1/8 or 1/4" acrylic that we laser cut. I guess it will all come down to what processes you have to make the jigs - laser or CNC cut. I don't see why coro wouldn't work also.