CNC MACHINES MAZAK
Integrating laser cutting and CNC machining: Smarter workfl ows for modern manufacturing
In many CNC machining environments, lasers and machine tools have traditionally been treated as separate processes, often working in entirely different departments
By Gaetano Lo Guzzo, Director of Laser Business Europe, Mazak B
ut as production demands grow more complex, there is a clear opportunity to optimise workfl ows by synchronising laser cutting and CNC machining.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING In manufacturing, precision planning is as crucial as precision machining. Even small process gaps can create ineffi ciencies that impact costs, delivery times and customer satisfaction. Once high levels of output and quality have been achieved, the next frontier is optimising how materials and goods move through production.
This is where identifying synergies between units or cells becomes important. Optimisation lies in balancing fl exibility with tighter control over time management and integration of laser and CNC is proving a particularly fruitful area to explore.
GETTING IT RIGHT FIRST TIME Historically, laser cutting and CNC machining were entirely separate, using different equipment and approaches. Now, continual innovation in both areas has created an opportunity to link them into a more seamless process. For customers like DC Developments in Norfolk, the introduction of new fi bre laser machines provided the catalyst to restructure workfl ows. By closely aligning laser and CNC, the company has accelerated turnaround times for metal components. Parts can now be precut on lasers, then quickly transferred to machine tools for precision formatting, cutting overall lead times. This integration depends on highly accurate and consistent laser blanking. Fibre laser technology makes this possible by delivering precision cuts on the fi rst attempt. Large or complex components stand to reap the benefi ts as an initial rough laser cut can reduce machining time spent during subsequent tool operations. Another signifi cant advantage of fi bre laser
is energy effi ciency. Unlike CO2 lasers, fi bre lasers consume less power, require no gas and involve fewer parts, making them easier and cheaper to maintain.
SHARED AUTOMATION: SMARTER WORK, NOT HARDER Automation strengthens the integration of laser and CNC, minimising errors and increasing consistency while maintaining high precision. Running both types
of equipment side by side also improves workplace organisation, a core principle of lean manufacturing, while unlocking opportunities for operator cross- training.
With the right set-up, an operator can effi ciently manage multiple machines at once, reducing downtime and enabling smoother transitions between processes. Robotics and collaborative systems further improve effi ciency. Automated sorting solutions can handle raw material, remove waste and palletise fi nished parts for the next production stage, all while maintaining unattended production runs. The key is centralised coordination. Intelligent software links automation with production demands, reducing unnecessary handling and changeovers. Over time, these systems empower teams to work more effectively, broadening service offerings and diversifying production capabilities.
SCHEDULING AS A COMPETITIVE EDGE As manufacturing technology evolves, so too does the availability of real-time production data. Rather than treating this as background information, manufacturers can harness it as a driver of more strategic scheduling.
By combining laser and machine-tool operations, production plans become easier to refi ne. Smart scheduling tools analyse customer demand, order size, materials and logistics, creating fl exible programming that improves equipment utilisation.
16 September/October 2025 Irish Manufacturing
The result is higher capacity and smoother workfl ows.
CREATING CHANGE THAT LASTS The advantages of combining laser cutting and CNC are clear: shorter, more effi cient processes, reduced energy use, improved quality and enhanced productivity. But the impact goes beyond the immediate workshop; integration helps re-evaluate factory layouts and resource allocation. Instead of grouping all the same machines together, manufacturers are discovering the benefi ts of mixed layouts where lasers and CNC machines are strategically combined to reduce excess motion and processing steps.
Mazak itself recognised this move back in 2012 when it expanded beyond CNC into laser cutting, focusing on merging cutting-edge software, automation and ergonomic machine design. By aligning developments across its laser and machine- tool divisions, Mazak sought to make smart, integrated manufacturing accessible to a wider spectrum of businesses. Ultimately, combining the strengths of laser and machining creates workfl ows that are leaner, smarter and more responsive. Effi ciency and organisation reinforce each other; even a single improvement can spark a ripple effect across the production ecosystem. And, as we know, in every area of manufacturing, time saved is money earned.
https://www.mazak.com/uk-en/
www.irish-manufacturing.com
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