The Problem We Solve
Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ)
Traditional hybrid laser processing relies on electric arc plasma — an energy source generating temperatures in the tens of thousands of degrees Celsius, leading to excessive thermal stress, an enlarged heat-affected zone (HAZ), material structure degradation, and enormous operating costs. Previous attempts to stabilise the process used gaseous media only as passive shielding. The SLCP system changes the paradigm, turning the ionised environment into an active and intelligent partner of the laser beam.
Beam and Active Ionised Environment Synergy
Energy control at the quantum level
The patented SLCP system replaces the energy-hungry electric arc with a stabilised ionised environment of high electron energy. Our solution enables precise process management without introducing destructive heat into the material.
- Focused absorption: High-energy electrons create a localised "black body" zone that confines laser energy exactly where it is needed, preventing unwanted heat dissipation into the material.
- Structural protection: Low-temperature ions maintain the thermal stability of the surroundings, creating an active chemical barrier that protects the processing zone from oxidation and loss of mechanical properties.
How the System Works
A breakthrough in optics and ionisation
Advanced Radiation Source
The system uses optimised laser sources (disc, diode, and others) generating a beam across a wide spectrum (from 200 nm to 15 μm). Energy is directed through a proprietary optical system with dynamic focal length control, which combined with the SLCP gas activation module achieves unprecedented process purity and precision.
Proven Processes
The SLCP system has been validated across six distinct material processing methods, with measurable gains over laser-only processing.
Welding (Titanium)
- Joint hardness 17% lower — reduced residual stress
- Zero porosity, zero oxide inclusions
Cladding (Stellite 6 on Steel)
- Overlay width 24% greater
- No porosity or cracks detected
Alloying (Metco 15E on Steel)
- Surface hardness 1049 HV1 — 2.7× base material
- No porosity
Dispersing (ZrO₂+Y₂O₃ on Titanium)
- Surface hardness 4.5× base material
- Impossible without CAP — all laser-only attempts failed
Surface Remelting (WC on Steel)
- Hardness 17% higher than laser-only
- Adhesive bonding upgraded to metallurgical fusion
Surface Heat Treatment (Steel)
- Surface hardness doubled (787 vs 396 HV1)
- No visible oxidation on treated surface
Key Advantages
Lower Energy Consumption
Our technology, leveraging synergistic interaction with the laser beam, reduces power requirements for the laser source.
Minimal Heat-Affected Zone
SLCP technology supports the laser energy — confining it to the treatment zone, eliminating adverse changes beyond the intended area.
Previously Impossible Processes
Ceramic dispersion into titanium and other combinations that cannot be achieved by laser alone.
Built-In Oxidation Protection
Ionised argon chemically isolates the treatment zone from ambient oxygen and nitrogen.
Full Microstructure Control
Adjustable SLCP parameters allow tailoring grain size, stress distribution, and phase composition.
Metals & Composites
Ionic temperatures below material melting points open new possibilities for non-metallic materials.
Applications
| Process | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|
| Welding | Aerospace-grade titanium joints, thin sheet assembly |
| Cladding | Wear-resistant coatings for industrial tooling |
| Alloying | Hardening of steel surfaces with Ni-Cr alloys |
| Dispersing | Ceramic reinforcement of titanium for extreme-wear |
| Surface Remelting | Upgrading flame-sprayed coatings to metallurgical bond |
| Heat Treatment | Localised hardening without bulk distortion |
Who Is This Technology For?
- Metal fabricators and welding shops seeking stronger, cleaner joints
- Aerospace and defence manufacturers processing titanium and superalloys
- Tooling and coating specialists extending component life
- Plastics and composite processors needing precise surface treatment
- Research institutions exploring next-generation hybrid methods
- Technology integrators and OEMs interested in licensing
Technology Readiness
Technology validated at pilot scale with full metallographic, hardness, and chemical characterisation. Protected by international patent.
We offer licences to deploy SLCP technology at your facility. Full technical support provided for system integration — from configuration selection to process parameter optimisation for your materials.