Meteoric rise leads to £2m order for laser cutting machines

In December 2016, Fantom instigated the firm’s next quantum step forward by placing a £2m order with Bystronic UK for three new laser cutting machines. The first, a 10kW ByStar Fiber with 3x1.5m sheet capacity, is being delivered in early 2017 followed by a further two 10kW fibre laser cutters capable of processing sheet up to 4x2m. At the same time, a 225-tonnes / 4-metre press brake has been ordered to extend the company’s bending capability.

Fantom commented: “The latest fibre lasers are a game-changer compared to conventional CO2 lasers. We can now effortlessly cut stainless steel and aluminium up to 30mm, mild steel up to 25mm and more exotic materials such as brass up to 15mm.

“In the past, these materials have been processed conventionally by plasma or water jet at great expense, but can be now cut in moments on our latest, cost-efficient laser machines.

“As users of this technology for more than 20 years, we aim to realise the full potential from our machines, especially the fibre laser’s speed whilst ensuring that the highest cutting standards are achieved.”

FC Laser’s customers come from a range of sectors including the structural, architectural, shopfitting and automotive industries and will benefit from the improvements in production capacity and shorter lead-times.

Apprenticeships are important to the growth of FC Laser, as Fantom, who is also apprentice trained, fully appreciates. The latest investments have generated five new technical and administration apprentice schemes, two of which are already filled. The apprentices will work towards NVQ III Business Administration and NVQ III Fabrication, Welding and Mechanical Services qualifications.