Schleuniger’s PowerStrip 9500: A Bright Light for Cathode Lighting Systems

Cathode Lighting Systems in Gaithersburg, MD is the world’s premier manufacturer of specification-grade, modular cold-cathode fixtures and lamps. Because of the high quality product it produces, the company has come to be known as “the gold standard” in architectural cove lighting. In order to achieve such a superior product, Cathode Lighting Systems uses only the highest quality machinery in its manufacturing process.

Part of this manufacturing process consists of creating a custom cable design that includes cutting, window stripping and stripping the ends of the cable. According to the company’s President, Steve Grossman, this process would be a “disaster” if it were done by hand because the material is very difficult to strip and the time investment needed would be unrealistic. Understanding that the automation of this process was the key to cost-effective production, Grossman conducted research to find a solution that would meet his needs for cost efficiency, quality and automation.

Cathode Lighting Systems chose the PowerStrip 9500 automatic cut and strip machine from Schleuniger. This machine is able to cut, strip and window strip cables in one easy automated step, giving Grossman the automation and cost efficiency he was looking for. “With the cost savings we achieved, the machine paid for itself within one year,” says Grossman.

Its innovative design enables the PowerStrip 9500 to process many different types of applications, including Cathode Lighting System’s difficult to strip cable, with precise and repeatable stripping quality, upholding Cathode Lighting Systems’ high standards. “The machine is well made and runs flawlessly,” Grossman added. “I wish everything would run this well.”