Eye-Catching Displays Can Make Your Booth More Power-Full

Walking around the show floor at the recent Power-Gen Show in Las Vegas, it is clear an abundance of power solutions are available, and the market is growing.

One of the larger exhibitors at the show, Leslie Controls, Inc. (designer and manufacturer of control valves for over a century – providing ZERO LEAK control valves for the power generation, industrial, marine and oil and gas markets), took advantage of their open booth design by placing product and information at every corner of the booth. The overall look was fantastic and drew in many people to learn more about Leslie Controls, and how their product’s advantages set them apart.

Does your booth offer an opportunity for prospective clients to have a hands-on experience in regards to your products? Sometimes this makes all the difference in the world.

Contact CalCo at 847-639-3858 for help with your booth or product displays.   Click here for more contact information or visit us on Facebook.

You Can’t Mix Up a CalCo Cutaway

There are many reasons why CalCo has been a leader in the cutaway business for decades and why so many clients keep coming back.  The most important  reasons are our knowledge, skill, and attention to detail which make a CalCo cutaway stand out above and beyond expectations.  Another reason is our ability to listen and work with clients to achieve the optimal and desired finished product.  Working with our clients to achieve the desired results is a cornerstone of our business and one of the main reasons that our clients return.  We use our extensive mechanical knowledge to show your product to its full advantage while telling the story that your marketing department wants to highlight.

We were recently asked to create a cutaway of a mixer, seen below, that would be displayed at one of the biggest fluid handling trade shows in the country.  It was on display at the WEFTEC show in Los Angeles.

The company conveyed to us how they wanted the mixer to look, including cut area and color scheme matching, we replicated those instructions and included this rail and T block support system which resembles the system used in the field. The company got exactly what they were looking for and we got another satisfied customer.

At CalCo exceeding expectations is what we strive to do for all of our customers.  We want to give you the best display possible so that you and your product look good.  If you need help with a display please contact CalCo at 847/639-3858 or click here for more contact information.  Find us on Facebook too.

Ideas for Trade Show Displays from CalCo

Our goal is to make your job of displaying your product easy whether it is at a trade show, at a sales call or in a training center.  We want to provide a customized solution for your product to show it in its best light.  Your satisfaction is our first priority.  With that in mind we have written some in-depth articles with ideas for displaying your product and we are trying to give you new ways to get information.  We have posted some informative articles about engine cutaways, trade show displays, shipping containers/case options and working models.  These articles give an overview of some choices for your displays and what CalCo can help you create.  Click on the links below to read these articles:

http://ezinearticles.com/?Tradeshow-Display-Options-for-Industrial-Manufacturers&id=6031914

http://ezinearticles.com/?Working-Models-Stop-Traffic-at-Trade-Shows&id=6148995

http://ezinearticles.com/?Engine-Cutaways:-How,-Why,-Who&id=5807313

http://ezinearticles.com/?Find-the-Right-Freight-Shipping-Container-or-Case-to-Handle-Your-Trade-Show-Displays&id=6314075

In addition, CalCo has a Facebook Page!! “Like” us on Facebook and get all the latest NEWS from CalCo directly. Browse our photos for ideas, ask questions and let us know what you think. We want to hear from you!

Get more ideas on our website at www.calcocutaways.com or look through our past articles on this site. To contact us call 847/639-3858,  click here for more information or visit us on Facebook.

“Your Product is our Profession!”

Dave Kasper, CalCo’s Senior Consultant, Has ALL the Answers

CalCo has been in business for almost 60 years. The reason – the people who work here and their dedication to getting a job done right and on time.   Dave Kasper, our Sales Manager, is a key component in our success.  Dave has been with CalCo for 9 years and has become indispensable due to his ability to come up with new and innovative ideas and to work with our customers to make sure they get exactly what they want.  Talking to Dave on the phone can turn a project around completely because he not only quotes, coordinates and communicates with you about your project but he also develops new ways to display them.  Recently he designed a large pedestal with multiple levels of display space which we constructed based on his designs.  He also developed a waterjet cut acrylic fire hydrant for a display which was lightweight and easy to transport.  He has designed many point of purchase layouts and has helped customers develop animation, 3D models, prototypes, displays and cutaways of every type. Although we have an archive with all projects we have completed it is sometimes easier to go and pick Dave’s brain.

Some of Dave’s ideas are shown above and some of his beliefs are explained below.

What is CalCo’s first priority?

Customer satisfaction.

What makes CalCo different from its competitors?

Honestly CalCo is one of those places that is more like a consulting firm for your marketing, sales and training departments. It is difficult to know about so many technologies and possibilities for your displays, and it is nice to be able to speak with someone who can offer suggestions that you may have never thought of otherwise.

What information do you need to know before beginning a project?

The first place we like to start is getting a good understanding of where your displays will be used, and in what context. Is this a training seminar, a trade show exhibit or a sales tool for road warriors, etc. . . Next is what story are you looking to tell with your project; how a product works, what the new upgrades look like and what they mean or even “We are number 1″! Once we get into the finer details and pricing/timing estimates, we will need some drawings or photos with dimensions to get started. From there we will take care of everything else, from asking additional questions, providing examples where needed and nailing down the shipping details in advance of that glorious day!

Whether you have a good idea of the type of display that you want or you need some good ideas, Dave can help.    For a free quote or to discuss your next project contact CalCo at 847/638-3858 or click here for more information.

A Transmission Cutaway that is a Thing of Beauty

CalCo Cutaways has always prided itself on our attention to detail and nowhere has that been more evident than in this Case New Holland Transmission Cutaway.  The entire side was removed to show the internal components and then inside the cutaway there are more areas cutout to reveal the exact function of each area.  Each area is cut to maximize the detail of the components and to give a greater knowledge of how the transmission functions.  In this case the areas are labeled so more detail can be given.   The greatest care was taken to make sure that all areas are smooth and plated to shine so this cutaway can attract attention from across a trade show floor.

A transmission of this size is hard to move so it makes it more of a challenge to cutaway.  The parts have to be completely dissassembled before any cutting can begin so our technicians have to be adept with machinery.  Each cut has to be determined and performed precisely.  Each piece must be accounted for and put back in the right location.  Each piece must be sanded smooth after cutting and production machining marks have to be smoothed too.  All parts need to be painted or plated so the product looks better than new.  We want every display and cutaway to look the best it can so we work hard to make it happen!

From the most complex cutaway, like this one, to a simple valve or bearing CalCo will give you a product you can display with pride.  Call us at 847/639-3858 for more information or click here for more contact information.

Custom Stands and Basemounts for Your Displays

Make Your Product Stand Out at a Trade Show or in Your Lobby Display

We all know it is important to make a good first impression.  The same holds true for your product presentation.  Basemounts and stands are one of your most important considerations when creating a product display.  To make your customers focus on your product they need to be able to see the things that make it unique and the proper basemount or stand allows that to happen.

The base has three primary functions:

1. Enhance the presentation of your product by setting it apart from its surroundings and giving it added dimension.
2. Help protect your display by keeping it stationary yet approachable.
3. Help in shipping by securing the item during transit.

CalCo creates all stands and basemounts specifically for your product so it has the proper dimensions and angles for great viewing and we always keep in mind the functions mentioned above.   Stands or basemounts are designed based on your needs and the uses of your product. We have freestanding designs for lobbies and rolling shadowbox designs for trade shows. We have brushed aluminum basemounts for tabletop designs or we can customize a stand like the one above with CalCo’s logo on the base.

Materials for bases and stands vary but some include:

Aluminum:  Generally the best choice for most industrial applications due to its strength, weight and appearance.  We use aluminum that is brushed and urethane clear-coated, anodized or plated depending on the clients needs.

Steel:  Used for large, complex applications which require the strength and flexibilty of a fabricated, welded steel frame.  Steel can be finished with paint or covered with other materials.  Wheels or pallets can aid in handling.

Wood:   Used for lightweight applications.  We primarily use it for awards and small presentations.

Acrylic:  Used as a base for lightweight point-of purchase displays or trade show displays or by itself to replicate a design in acrylic.

Composite Materials:  A number of options are available and can be used to create the look you want for your display.  We can simulate everything from actual terrain to fluid processing.

Other options include special lighting or signage which finish the display.  See the shadowbox photo below which has a cutout logo and interior lighting which makes the display glow.

Frequently Asked Questions about CalCo Cutaways

How much do CalCo’s services cost?

Each project is different and is priced according to man hours involved, materials for bases, shipping containers or electrical parts, and outside services like plating.  We provide quotes based upon our estimates of time and material to do each job.

How long does it take?

A good rule of thumb is to plan ahead. Some projects can be turned around in a week or two, and some can be 90 days, depending upon the project. When production levels are high, lead times are longer, and it is always a good idea to get a no obligation quote in advance.  Our average turnaround time is 4-6 weeks but it is entirely dependent on our schedule at the time that your project arrives.   If necessary and if physically possible, we will adjust our schedule to meet yours and once we commit to a delivery date, you can count on it.

What do you need from me to provide a quote for my cutaway project?

The best and most effective way is to send the part with a description of the work you want done.   If your product or part is very large, transportation can be difficult, so typically we like to have a dimensional drawing along with weights and the primary materials of the product (carbon steel, stainless, aluminum, etc.)   A photo of the product is always helpful as well, along with a description of the areas you are looking to feature.  With this information we can provide an accurate estimate, which can be confirmed upon receipt of the actual product.

How do I specify where to cut on my product?

Generally, you will receive the best cutaways if you tell us what features you want to show and leave the specific cutting designs to our skilled technicians. They have the knowledge and experience to show and retain components in such a way as to show what you want in the best and least expensive way. We strive to show as much as possible in one view with as simple a cut as possible.

If I can do all or some of the work in-house, shouldn’t I?

There are three ways of looking at this question:
Financially: Because we specialize in making cutaways and displays, we are pretty darn good (and efficient) at it. Therefore, it generally takes our experts less time to do a cutaway so we are almost always less expensive than full or even incremental in-house costs.

Quality Control: We provide all cutting, clearancing, finishing and final fitting, plus basemounts and shipping containers. All these services must be coordinated, anticipating the needs of the others. At Calco you get a one stop shop that will handle all of these needs for you. We have the tools necessary to do the job right and the expertise and knowledge to make it look great.

Resources: Just because you can do something doesn’t mean that it is the best use of your resources (time and talent). Most companies are continuously assessing what they should and can do well, and then outsourcing the rest.

What else can CalCo do for me besides cutaways?

• Working Models
• Custom Stands and Basemounts
• Lighting
• Custom Fit Cases
• Custom Fit Permanent Shipping Containers
• Animation and Electronic Media
• Professional Photography
• 3-D Printing, Scale Models and Prototypes
• Point of Purchase Displays and Signage
• Custom Sales Awards and Corporate Gifts
• Web Enabled Training and Training Programs
• Metal Plating
• If you don’t see what you need, just ask!

Our Promise:

Highest Quality, Great Value and Guaranteed On-Time Delivery.  We want our customers to be satisfied and we will do everything within our power to meet this goal!

If you have any other questions that you would like CalCo to answer please contact us by email at News@CalcoCutaways.com or by clicking the envelope in the top left corner of this window.  For more information visit our website at www.CalCoCutaways.com or click here for contact information.

Large Trade Show Displays make a HUGE Impression

CalCo has worked on all sorts of projects but these large displays make a huge and memorable impression.   Catch your customers attention with a BIG display and see people flock to your booth.

The large and tall display stand above demands attention with space to put numerous products , and with the flexibility to change the products, it can work for years to come.   The stand was custom designed to the clients specifications and we created custom signage to fit.  We created a custom shipping container for the product below to protect it during transit and for easier loading and unloading at shows.  These large products look fantastic on display. Together the stand, large products and large signage create a HUGE impression on customers.  No longer are they just walking by,  they are stopping to look, touch and listen.

If you are looking to make a BIG impression at your next tradeshow then call CalCo at 847/639-3858 to get some ideas or click here for contact information.

Meet Dan Fierla, Senior Supervisor and Cutaway and Display Expert, at CalCo

Ever wonder how CalCo can continually make first class cutaways and always seems to know just what you wanted? We owe much of it to our production supervisor, Dan Fierla. Dan started at CalCo as part of a high school cooperative work program and has been here ever since. In his 32 years, he has moved up the ladder from high school intern to Senior Supervisor, in charge of production and managing our facility and workers. If you have worked with CalCo you may have spoken to Dan and you most likely learned that he has high standards for the work that we do. If it doesn’t meet Dan’s expectations, it is not going out the door. Customer service and satisfaction has always been a key component at CalCo and Dan is one of the reasons why. Another of his famous attributes is his dedication to time commitments. We pay close attention to deadlines and work hard to meet every one. While we always try to work projects into our schedule, we have turned away business because we could not have maintained our high standards and met the delivery date.

According to Dan the most important information that you can give us about your project is……

“information that will help me to make your project have that just right look.  Details like, what are you trying to show with this cutaway/display?  Is it the size/type of the internal parts you want to showcase? Or is it something special that separates your product from the competition? This information helps me to design the cuts to show what the customer needs and wants to see.”

His favorite project that he has completed is…..

“I had the honor to work on and am very proud of a Double over head cam V6 marine engine for a large engine manufacturer. This project from start to finish was done right.  David Meeler from their marketing department, came to Calco, told me all of the features he would like to show, which helped me to machine the engine and give it that personal touch.  Colors and color coding were all picked out by the customer. When the engine made its maiden voyage at the Florida Boat Show it was a big hit.”

Something you should know about him is……

“I get great satisfaction out of working with the other members of the CalCo team.  I am driven to make CalCo the Best it can be for both employee and customer. When I see pictures of  trade show booths like Navistar, DeZURIK and Kimray, and all of them use Calco cutaways/displays to show case their products,  I have a great sense of pride in knowing I played a part in helping them project a positive image.”

Dan’s level of experience and overall knowledge of products helps you in terms of deciding the best way to display the internal components of your product. Chances are great that Dan has the best and most cost effective way to show your products key features.  He can assist you in creating your ideal cutaway/display.  He also has innovative ideas to show off large products, create working models or design custom stands.

If you have a project that you are interested in discussing, give CalCo a call at 847/639-3858, email us at news@calcocutaways.com or click here for our contact page.

CalCo: Your Turn-Key Solution for Product Displays

CalCo likes a challenge! We have been in the business of solving our customers problems for almost 60 years.

CalCo started in 1953 as a cutaway shop taking products and cutting away a portion to show the internal parts since they can be a valuable selling tool.  We have come a long way over the years by adapting to customer needs and changes in product displays.  In that time, we have become a turn-key solution for our customers by adding new services.  Did you know there is a place you can go to get all of your product display needs performed at the same time?

In addition to cutaways,  CalCo provides :

• Working Models with or without a cutaway
• Product Displays
• Sales and Training Aids
• Lighting
• Custom Basemounts
• Custom Shipping Containers
• Acrylic covers  and Displays
• Point-of-Puchase Displays
• Custom Cases
• Scale Models and Rapid Prototyping
• Three Dimensional Printing
• Animation
• Sales Awards
• Corporate Gifts
• Plating
• Training Programs
• Professional Photography
• Waterjet Cutting

CalCo can solve your trade show or product display problems with just one phone call!  A typical project now involves creating a cutaway, attaching a brushed aluminum base or custom rolling basemount, building a custom shipping container and a shooting a professional photography session before the project is completed and shipped back to the customer ready to go directly to a trade show or presentation.

If you need help with your trade show, sales or training needs, call CalCo at 847/639-3858 or click here for our contact page and let us make your idea a reality!