The LaserWay project aims to transform the manufacturing sector by replacing traditional, inefficient, and environmentally harmful methods with highly flexible production lines centred on high-speed laser technology
Project Description
The LaserWay project seeks to develop WayFASTER machines to enhance the performance of laser technologies through lightweight designs, vibration control techniques, and programme optimisations tailored for high-speed laser applications. WayBETTER photonics is intended to ensure precise delivery of the laser beam at extreme speeds, addressing the unique demands of three specific laser technologies. The WaySTRONGER integration concept is designed to improve the sustainability, resilience, and flexibility of current manufacturing processes by mechanically and digitally integrating new technologies.
The project’s success is anticipated to provide a competitive advantage to industries such as automotive, aerospace, and water filtration by reducing processing times, optimising material usage, and improving the quality of end products.
Objective
Recent events, including the COVID pandemic and the war in Ukraine, have heightened global uncertainty, prompting European companies to reassess their global supply chains and production methods. Given the unpredictable nature of potential disruptions, it is essential for European industry to maintain high levels of flexibility and adaptability, enabling rapid responses to sudden changes.
The LaserWay project aims to transform the manufacturing sector by replacing traditional, inefficient, and environmentally harmful methods with highly flexible production lines centred on high-speed laser technology. The selected laser manufacturing technologies—laser blanking, laser micro-drilling, and extreme high-speed laser material deposition (EHLA)—have been chosen for their potential to enable more sustainable manufacturing processes and products.
The project focuses on developing WayFASTER machines to optimise laser technology performance through lightweight designs, vibration control techniques, and tailored programme optimisations for high-speed applications. WayFASTER photonics will ensure the precise and efficient delivery of laser beams at extreme speeds, accommodating the specific needs of the three laser technologies. The WaySTRONGER integration concept is expected to enhance the sustainability, resilience, and flexibility of existing manufacturing processes through the mechanical and digital incorporation of new technologies.
The LaserWay project’s anticipated advancements will drive innovation in high-speed laser processing, reducing processing times, improving material efficiency, and enhancing product quality for industries such as automotive and aerospace. By achieving these goals, the project is expected to solidify Europe’s position as a global leader in advanced manufacturing technologies.