Bridging the Skills Gap in Laser Manufacturing with an Integrated FANUC CNC Platform

As manufacturers become increasingly interested in laser welding and laser cutting solutions, machine tool builders are facing growing demand for easier-to-use machines that employ more sophisticated technologies.

Laser cutting and welding offerings are expected to deliver not only high laser power, fast processing speed and top cutting accuracy, but also boost productivity and solve the growing labor shortage. 

One builder rising to this demand is Laser Marking Technologies, which is introducing a new laser solution using the FANUC control platform.

Simplifying a Complex Process

CNC laser processing has traditionally relied on skilled operators with experience in G-code programming and machine setup. Today's workforce challenges can no longer accommodate these requirements. Manufacturers need systems that are easy to operate while still delivering expert-level performance and repeatability.

Laser Marking Technologies developed the Fusion XL platform with a modern user experience that dramatically simplifies operation. This platform uses FANUC’s 0i-LF Plus CNC with an integrated iPC running FANUC’s iHMI, along with FANUC servos, FANUC MOP (Machine Operator Panel), a FANUC Keyboard, a Laser Interface Unit and a FANUC MPG for handheld jog movements.

Rather than requiring every operator to know CNC programming, users can create laser programs through an intuitive, conversational drag-and-drop workflow. Using the built-in camera and a handheld or on-screen MPG, operators can position the machine and select the "Teach" function to record and save linear or curved laser-welding paths in seconds. More advanced users have the flexibility to switch to traditional G-code programming if they prefer.

The solution allows manufacturers to accommodate both experienced CNC programmers and newer operators on the same platform.

Addressing the Manufacturing Skills Gap

With the continuing shortage of skilled manufacturing labor, machine builders increasingly recognize that usability is just as important as machine capability. The Fusion XL platform demonstrates how FANUC technology can help close that gap.

Operators can focus on the part and process rather than the programming tasks that once required specialized expertise. These tasks can now be completed through a highly visual interface, reducing training time and increasing operational success.

This approach lowers barriers to system adoption while helping manufacturers expand their workforce pool.

The Value of an Industrially Integrated iPC

In this application, one of the most valued features of the CNC system has been the FANUC iPC.

Many machine builders historically relied on third-party industrial computers or commercial PC front ends. These systems often introduced challenges related to operating system updates, hardware lifecycle management and startup reliability.

The FANUC iPC with Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024 provides a significantly different experience. Since the platform is purpose-built for industrial applications, customers gain:

• Improved startup consistency
• Reduced disruption from operating system updates
• Longer lifecycle support
• Highly reliable touchscreens
• Tighter integration with the CNC environment

For users operating production equipment, this means less time managing computer infrastructure and more time producing parts.

Reliability Matters in Laser Processing

Laser welding and cutting processes demand consistency. A small interruption in motion control, process synchronization or machine responsiveness can directly impact part quality.

By utilizing an integrated FANUC control platform, machine builders can leverage:

• FANUC’s world-renowned CNC technology
• Powerful FANUC servos
• Customizable FANUC operator interfaces
• Integrated FANUC laser hardware

Together, these components operate as a unified platform.

This approach reduces system complexity while providing a single-source solution for motion control, machine operation and process management. For manufacturers, the result is greater confidence in machine performance and improved productivity.

A New Generation of Laser Machines

As laser manufacturing continues to grow, machine builders will have to offer more than fast cutting speeds and quality welds. Success will depend on enabling operators of all experience levels to be productive quickly, minimizing downtime and creating systems that are simple to maintain and scale.

By integrating FANUC CNC laser products to create a highly capable and easy-to-use platform, Laser Marking Technologies has shown how machine builders can create a new generation of laser processing equipment.

The result is a solution that delivers the reliability and consistency manufacturers expect from FANUC, while providing the ease of use needed to overcome today's manufacturing skills gap.