The Cutting Edge of Laser Technology

14 October 2003

Bristow Laser Systems laser cutting machine

Bristow Laser Systems is the only Australian owned company dedicated to the research, development, and manufacture of laser cutting systems. Founded in 1985, this innovative young business is a leading supplier of laser solutions for Australian organisations involved in many areas of industry, from major automotive companies, to stainless steel fabricators, to agricultural equipment manufacturers.

The company philosophy is simple, says Darren Cummings, Sales and Marketing Manager for Bristow Laser Systems. "We believe that the association with our customer doesn't just end with the sale and installation of our equipment. It's the beginning of an ongoing relationship with the customer, offering training, advice, and access to our many years of experience in the industry."

On average, Bristow Laser Systems produces about 12 machines a year. Depending on the model, each machine will use from 8 to 10 tonnes of steel in its manufacture. The quality of steel used for the base and body of these machines is integral to its performance, which is why Bristow Laser Systems has chosen to use Lasercut 250 XLERPLATE® and AS/NZS 3678 - 350 XLERPLATE® from BlueScope Steel.

"The reason that we are using XLERPLATE® in the fabrication of our units is because it's steel that is actually designed for laser cutting. The majority of the machine components are laser cut themselves, and Lasercut 250 XLERPLATE® is an easier plate to cut," explains Darren Cummings. "It's also a very reliable product, the consistency of the steel is always good, which is really essential to the quality of our products."

As a hard working Australian company that often has to compete with major overseas manufacturers, using a local supplier like BlueScope Steel is important to Bristow Laser Systems. According to Darren Cummings, "One of the challenges that we have to overcome as a business, is the threat posed by cheaper, inferior products imported from overseas. Which is why we would always prefer to buy locally, we are really passionate about supporting Australian industry."

BlueScope Steel's dedication to customer service and support is yet another reason that they are a preferred steel supplier to Bristow Laser Systems. "Good service, timely delivery, this is exactly what we try to provide to our customers, and that's what we expect from a supplier. We get what we need from BlueScope Steel. Our communication has always been excellent with BlueScope Steel, and so is the technical support that they've provided," says Darren Cummings.

XLERPLATE®, a brand of high quality hot rolled plate steel products from BlueScope Steel