In modern manufacturing, the difference between a good project and a great one often comes down to the technology used to profile the parts. At our facility, we house two of the most capable cutting technologies available today: a 12kW Fibre Laser and the incredibly versatile Flow Waterjet.
While both offer world-class precision, they serve different strategic purposes. Whether your priority is rapid turnaround or material versatility, understanding how we apply these tools will help you optimize your production workflow.
The 12kW Fibre Laser: Built for Unrivalled Speed
Our 12kW Fibre Laser is the “sprinter” of the workshop. By utilizing a high-density, high-wattage light beam, this machine is engineered to fly through metal at speeds that traditional cutting methods simply cannot match.
Maximum Throughput: The 12kW power source allows us to maintain incredibly high feed rates, even on medium-gauge materials. This makes it the ultimate choice for high-volume production runs where lead times are tight.
- Precision and Edge Quality: The laser produces a narrow kerf, allowing for intricate nesting of parts to reduce material waste. On stainless and mild steel, it leaves a clean, burr-free edge that is often ready for assembly immediately.
- Optimized for Metals: This technology is specifically fine-tuned for carbon (mild) steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper and brass.
The Flow Mach 100: The Ultimate in Material Versatility
Where the laser is a specialist in speed, the Flow Mach 100 is a master of adaptation. Using ultra-high-pressure water infused with abrasive garnet, it can profile almost any material without the use of heat.
- The “Cold Cut” Advantage: Because the waterjet is a mechanical erosion process, there is no Heat Affected Zone (HAZ). This is vital for projects where the material’s structural integrity or tempered properties must remain 100% intact from edge to edge.
- Vast Material Range: Beyond just metals, our waterjet opens the door to a massive array of industrial materials. From hard plastics and composites to rubber, stone, and laminated materials, the Waterjet handles them with ease.
- Superior Thickness Handling: For heavy-duty requirements, the waterjet excels. We can comfortably profile materials up to 75mm thick, maintaining a consistent cut with minimal wave marks.
Performance Comparison
| Feature | 12kW Fibre Laser | Flow Mach 100 Waterjet |
| Primary Advantage | Velocity & Efficiency | Material Versatility |
| Heat Impact | Thermal (Minimal) | None (Cold Cutting) |
| Material Specialty | Mild Steel, Stainless, Aluminium | Plastics, Rubbers, Composites, Metals |
| Intricacy | High-Detail Fine Geometry | Complex Silhouettes in Any Material |
| Maximum Thickness | High-Speed up to 25mm+ | Precision up to 75mm |
Which One is Right for You?
To choose the right process, consider your two most important project variables: Time and Material Type.
Choose the 12kW Laser if: Speed is Your Priority
If you are working with metals—specifically mild steel, stainless, or aluminium—and you need your parts yesterday, the laser is the clear winner. Its ability to process hundreds of parts in a fraction of the time makes it the most cost-effective and efficient solution for metal profiling.
Choose the Waterjet if: Versatility is the Priority
If your project involves non-metallic materials like hard plastics or composites, or if you are working with thick-gauge metals where heat distortion is a concern, the waterjet is the perfect tool. It is the “go-to” for specialized materials that a laser simply cannot touch, ensuring a perfect finish on even the most stubborn surfaces.
Ready to Start?
Our team specializes in matching your specific project requirements to the right technology to save you time and money. Whether it’s a high-speed run on our 12kW laser or a custom industrial plastic profile on our Flow Mach 100, we have the capacity to deliver.
Contact us today to discuss your next project or send through your CAD files for a comprehensive quote.