Newcastle based gobo manufacturers Projected Image have invested in new metal etching machinery. This is designed to make the process even quicker and more efficient whilst allowing an increase in output. It is also in response to a massive growth in the demand for gobos in general which has been experienced by PI over the last year .

The centerpiece of the new kit is the spray etch machine, which has been specifically designed for PI's requirements.

It is a fully conveyorised system. The exposed and developed metal plates pass through a double-sided spray-etching chamber where the required images are etched through the metal surfaces. The plates are then washed, stripped of photo resist and cleaned.

PI's Jim Douglas says, "We are best known for our glass gobo work, in particular our expertise in custom colour gobos. However, the general increase in business over the last 2 years has seen a large rise in demand for custom work and in supplying our new and expanded catalogue range. To ensure that PI maintains its reputation for the fastest turnarounds and the highest quality gobos - the time was right to make the purchase."

PI manufactures all its metal gobos using super-high quality brass alloy. This material has superior thermal characteristics, making the metal gobos much less prone to heat distortion and burning out than standard steel gobos.

Recent gobo supplies have included Marks and Spencer and the British Academy Television Awards.