Why Laser Automation?

Profitability in a production environment depends on getting the most parts out the door with the fewest workers on the floor. That means automation.

But some fabricators find it difficult to justify the cost of laser automation, or they question whether throughput is really any better than a plain old shuttle table. Here is what our customers tell us they like about laser automation.

• Mitsubishi's Automated Lasers Work – it’s not easy to automate most fabricating machines. A punch requires an occasional tool change, plasma cutters frequently need new nozzles and electrodes, and waterjets? Forget about it. But it is possible to automate a laser.
• More Throughput During the Day – an automated laser puts out more parts than a manual laser, regardless of whether there is an operator standing next to the machine or not. One owner likened his automated laser to an assembly line. Whomever schedules the automation (i.e. management) sets the pace. Not the operators.
• Unmanned Production on Evenings & Weekends – take advantage of lower utility rates.


• Less Labor – many owners have reduced their payroll after bringing in laser automation, and actually increased throughput. Revenue per employee jumps in the process.
• Fewer Machines – likewise, some have gone from four manual lasers to a dual laser FMS line and doubled throughput.
• Automation for Short Runs? – Yes. Or in the words of one customer, “The shorter the run, the greater the percentage of non-value added screwing around per part, so the greater the benefit if you can automate the process.”
• Great Fit for Small Shops – we have owners who have loaded up their tower in the morning and hit the sales road.