A shift toward sustainability, efficiency, and long-term quality
About two years ago, Fab Metal LLC made a deliberate change in our cutting technology: we phased out our CO2 lasers and fully transitioned to fiber laser systems. This move wasn’t just about keeping up with industry trends. It was a choice grounded in performance, environmental responsibility, and our long-term commitment to precision metal fabrication.
The problem with traditional CO2 lasers
CO2 lasers have been widely used for decades, but they come with challenges. These systems require a lot of power, use gas to generate the beam, and typically need more frequent maintenance. As a result, they are less energy-efficient and contribute more to environmental impact than newer technology.They also tend to be slower and less precise, especially when dealing with reflective materials like aluminum or certain types of stainless steel. In short, CO2 was holding us back from the type of performance and sustainability we knew we could achieve.
Why fiber lasers are better
Fiber laser systems use solid-state technology and require significantly less energy. They don’t need gas mixtures, have fewer moving parts, and operate with higher efficiency. For us, that means faster cut times, tighter tolerances, and cleaner edges, without sacrificing quality.
From a production standpoint, fiber lasers allow us to increase throughput while reducing waste. That improves consistency and lowers costs per part for our customers.
Better for the environment, better for business
By switching to fiber laser systems, we’ve lowered our energy consumption and reduced our carbon footprint. This move supports our goal of operating responsibly, minimizing waste, and investing in sustainable practices that align with broader industry goals.
It’s not just good PR, it’s good engineering.
This change speaks to who we are
We believe every decision we make today should support the products we build tomorrow. Upgrading to fiber lasers wasn’t just an equipment change. It was a mindset shift.
It reflects our focus on continuous improvement, investment in our craft, and our desire to build stronger partnerships with OEMs who care about the same things we do—efficiency, sustainability, and long-term value.
As technology evolves, so will we. But no matter how we grow, one thing remains constant: our commitment to quality and forward thinking.
Ready to work with a fabrication team that’s invested in your future? Contact our team today.