Champlin, Minnesota:  Prima Power Laserdyne LLC, one of two North American manufacturing facilities of PRIMA INDUSTRIE, S.p.A., Torino, Italy, a world-leading manufacturer of industrial laser systems, announced that it has initiated manufacturing of the RAPIDO Laser System at its Champlin (Minneapolis), Minnesota facility.  This facility is also the headquarters for design, manufacturing and service of the LASERDYNE family of precision multi-axis (3D) laser systems.

The RAPIDO is a large work envelope, high speed 3D laser processing system used in a wide range of applications including cutting automotive hot formed steel and hydroformed components, and laser cutting and welding of components for the appliance, aerospace, pressure vessel, and a host of other manufacturing markets.  Previously manufactured and delivered to the North American market exclusively from the company's headquarters operation in Torino, Italy, RAPIDO systems will now be assembled, tested and supported by workers in Champlin.

"The RAPIDO is an established and leading-edge 3D laser system used by many OEMs and subcontractors," reports Terry L. VanderWert, president of Prima Power Laserdyne.  "RAPIDO systems give these manufacturers the needed automation and production efficiencies required to be successful in the marketplace.  They do this by operating non-stop, automatically handling and cutting very large quantities of parts in a 24/7 manufacturing environment."

In addition to high acceleration and rapid traverse speed of 175 m/min, RAPIDO systems produce very high quality cut edges.  These systems cut and trim a typical automotive B-pillar body panel in less than 50 seconds.  They do this producing high quality cut edges that are free from oxide and are weld and paint ready.  No costly added operations are needed for preparation of the cut edges for welding, assembly and painting of the panels.

"Bringing the RAPIDO manufacturing to Champlin puts us closer to our customers for faster delivery, more efficient product training and localized service," reports Mr. VanderWert.  "With the growth of hot stamped steel technology in North American manufactured automobiles, and the overall renewal of manufacturing around the country, it is logical to capitalize on Prima's laser system manufacturing capability.  Having just celebrated our 30th anniversary in March, we have a highly skilled workforce with deep experience in assembly, test, application and programming of 3D laser systems.  We also have a strong local supplier network."

"In addition to bringing RAPIDO manufacturing operations to the Champlin plant, we are expanding the Prima Power Technology Center here.  We will provide extensive training for RAPIDO systems prior to delivery.  Our network of experienced service representatives in Canada, Mexico, and the USA will also be supported from the Technology Center.  These moves further demonstrate Prima Power's commitment to the North American market," Mr. VanderWert stated.

For more information about RAPIDO systems, call +1-763-433-3700, e-mail [email protected] or write to Prima Power Laserdyne LLC, 8600 109th Avenue North, #400, Champlin, MN  55316


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