THE LASER USER THE LASER USER
JOB SHOP CORNER: CHAIR’S MESSAGE
ANOTHER GREAT AILU JOB SHOP BUSINESS MEETING
The AILU Job Shop Business Meeting, held in November and hosted by Bystronic, brought together industry professionals to discuss the latest developments in laser job shops. Bystronic kicked off the event with a presentation on their product offerings, highlighting the benefits their technology can bring to laser subcontractors.
A key theme of the conference was diversification. Several presentations explored the wide range of work that job shops can take on, offering valuable insights for businesses looking to expand their services. This was particularly relevant given the fast-changing demands of the industry. Energy costs — a major concern for all job shops — were also a hot topic. Reducing costs while cutting carbon emissions is an increasing priority, and James Cunningham from Geo Green Power led a discussion on installing Solar PV. Many attendees were keen to explore how solar energy could help reduce overheads and improve sustainability.
Safety was another important issue covered. David Lawton from Kentek gave an insightful talk on the risks associated with handheld laser welding systems, which are growing in popularity due to their ease of use. Understanding best practices for safe operation is essential as more businesses adopt this technology, especially for businesses that have no previous experience of using lasers.
A particularly lively debate was sparked by John Powell from Laser Expertise on the question of laser power. With most companies offering 20 kW laser flat bed laser cutting machines, and some even higher, the discussion focused on how much power is enough for efficient and cost-effective processing. There was a good worked example presented by Bystronic demonstrating that it all depends on what your product mix is.
One of the most practical takeaways for job shop owners was the scrap price survey. Conducted anonymously, it compared the scrap prices different businesses were receiving. This gave attendees a useful benchmark and a chance to ensure they’re getting the best possible value. As always, the event wrapped up with the latest updates from laser machine manufacturers and associated companies, showcasing new technology and equipment.
Overall, the Job Shop Meeting proved to be an invaluable opportunity for job shop owners and other SMEs using lasers to gain insights, network, and stay ahead in an evolving industry. If you feel that you missed out don't worry we will back for another conference in 2025.
Chris Waters
chriswaters@micrometric.co.uk https://micrometric.co.uk/
ISSUE 115 MARCH 2025 ISSUE 115 MARCH 2025
JOB SHOP CORNER
MIDTHERM LASER REDUCES ITS ENERGY USAGE BY 50%
In 2018, Midtherm Laser launched a mission to significantly lower its energy consumption and reduce its carbon footprint. Director Richard Andrews set an ambitious target to cut energy use by half by 2023. Thanks to recent investments and machine upgrades, Midtherm Laser reached these targets. More importantly, the company has made changes and improvements that enhance energy savings and improve part quality and performance.
The main drivers for energy use reductions were: investing in fibre laser technology; upgrading nitrogen production; and improved automation and tower storage.
After achieving significant energy savings, Midtherm Laser is now exploring other renewable energy options. After already cutting its consumption by 1,000,000 kWh per year, the company plans to further reduce its carbon footprint. There are plans to install solar panels that can generate up to 200,000 kWh annually to produce all energy in-house.
Contact: Mark Hannon
mark@midthermlaser.co.uk https://midthermlaser.co.uk/
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