The laser processing group at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) has joined forces with 13 research organisations and leading companies across Europe to design and deliver the next generation of laser texturing systems.The SYNTECS project is driven by sustainability and digitalisation principles to ensure maximum efficiency and productivity, and aims to increase the uptake and industrialisation of the technology among European manufacturers.

Component surface treatments offer a valuable way of improving the end results in areas such as roughness, scratch resistance and microbial resistance. Although used in manufacturing for decades, increased industrial demands for more complex, customised and better performing components have resulted in a growing need for multi-functional surfaces.

Laser surface texturing techniques provide an alternative way of achieving functional surfaces, but the full potential of the technology is limited due to the scanning technology and the digital architecture used.

MTC laser processing technology manager Tian Long See says the SYNTECS project will address these challenges by developing a versatile, low-cost laser texturing approach to generate surfaces with multi-functional performance responses, combining the two most promising scanning techniques – direct laser writing (DLW) and direct laser interference patterning (DLIP) into a single module.

“The hardware development will be supported by a sophisticated digital design module that will accelerate the design and optimisation of functional surfaces by considering the sustainability aspect of the component during the design stage,” he explains.“This will enable greener manufacturing fit for the future.”

Supported by funding through the EU’s Horizon Europe Framework Programme for research and innovation, the project consortium will develop a fully integrated versatile laser texturing system that reduces design and production time with a ‘right first time’ approach.
For further information www.the-mtc.org

A supplier of structural steel and plate processing equipment, Ficep UK, is introducing Cutlite Penta’s state-of-the-art Plus laser system for metal cutting with resonators up to 30kW.Offering a working area of up to 15 x 3m and capability for processing stainless steel and mild steel up to 50mm, the Plus is a powerful option for applications involving heavy engineering.

According to Ficep, linear motor drive technology provides highly responsive dynamics, enabling high productivity even on extremely complex geometries, while the machine’s low energy consumption makes it an effective solution in productive and environmental terms.

The smooth dynamics of the cutter head delivers cuts with low pressure, resulting in a considerable saving in manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the Evo 3 cutting head is equipped with a contact-free capacitive sensor and its optional bevel head can rotate up to 45°in both cutting directions.

Says Chris Berriman, Ficep UK sales director: “Cutlite Penta’s Plus and heavy-duty range of laser systems complements our portfolio of cutting systems and allows us to meet the needs of metal processors who require a system that can cut thick capacity steel at a greater speed with high levels of accuracy.”

He continues: “One of the laser’s many strengths is its unique ability to focus power into a very small area, which makes it the ultimate technology in metal cutting accuracy and quality. The Plus is the go-to laser cutting option when heavy engineering requires a quality finish and when fast processing speed is vital.”
For further information www.ficep.co.uk