In 2012, Danny Fantom started FC Laser Ltd with a single Bystronic Bysprint Pro 4.4kW CO₂ laser cutting machine.

Since then, the company has gone from strength to strength, following a move (in 2015) to larger premises in Draycott, Derbyshire, and the purchase of two more laser machines, plus two press brakes.

In December 2016, Mr Fantom initiated the next phase in his company’s development when he placed a £2 million order with Coventry-based Bystronic UK Ltd (www.bystronic.com) for three new laser cutting machines.

The first — a 10kW ByStar Fiber with 3 x 1.5m sheet capacity — will be installed early this year, followed by two more 10kW Fiber laser cutters (with a 4 x 2m sheet capacity). A 225-tonne/4m press brake has also been ordered.

Mr Fantom said: “The latest fibre lasers are a game-changer compared to conventional CO2 lasers. We can now effortlessly cut stainless steel and aluminium up to 30mm thick, mild steel up to 25mm and more-exotic materials such as brass up to 15mm.

“In the past, these materials have been processed conventionally by plasma or water-jet at great expense, but they will now be cut in moments on our latest laser machines.”

FC Laser’s customers come from a range of sectors that include the structural, architectural, shopfitting and automotive.

Apprenticeships are important to the growth of FC Laser; indeed, the latest investments have generated five new technical and administration apprentice schemes, two of which are already filled.

The apprentices will work towards NVQ III Business Administration and NVQ III Fabrication, Welding and Mechanical Services qualifications.