Laser cutter investment helps achieve next-day lead times

Middlesbrough-based steel plate processing expert SM Thompson (SMT) has reduced lead times for its customers following the installation of a new 12 kW fibre laser cutter with a 4-m bed. The ACCURL MasterLINE 4020, supplied by Axe & Status, has enabled SMT to offer next-day delivery, down from 2-3 days previously.

Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, SMT is one of the North East’s most experienced firms in its field.

“We began as a steel stockholder in 1950,” explains Managing Director Harvey Thompson, grandson of founder Stanley Moorhouse Thompson. “In the 1960s, my father Howard introduced profiling services to offer customers more value. We started with flame and plasma cutting, and over time expanded into laser cutting, press braking and plate rolling.”

Operating in a market where price, quality and delivery are all critical, SMT sought a way to improve turnaround times. Already operating three laser cutters, the company opted to invest in a fourth to increase capacity.

“We needed to cut lead times and raise quality levels through the latest laser cutting technology,” says Harvey Thompson. “We regularly invest in new machinery and always evaluate our options carefully. Our customers rely on us to provide the best available equipment.”

After an in-depth review, SMT selected the ACCURL machine, citing the chance to visit an existing user as a key factor in their decision.

“The user we spoke to was very happy with the performance, and that gave us confidence. The ACCURL is definitely a step up from our other laser cutters,” he says.

Installed in February 2025, the 12 kW ACCURL MasterLINE 4020 features a 4 x 2  m bed. SMT describes the installation, commissioning and training process as smooth and well-supported.

“It was probably the best installation we’ve ever had. The support from Axe & Status was excellent.”

Although it’s the first ACCURL machine at SMT, operators found the transition easy.

“The team took to it quickly and now prefer it over our other laser cutters for every job,” says Harvey Thompson.

SMT works with batch sizes from single units to thousands and processes steel from 1 to 25 mm thick. Since entering the laser market, the company has grown its presence in stainless steel and aluminium.

“With this new laser, we may soon phase out plasma cutting altogether. Laser is more efficient and cost-effective, and the quality is better.”

Despite similar power levels to existing machines, the ACCURL cuts 20-30% faster using the same gases.

“We can only put it down to better technology,” he says.

The company runs a three-shift system, five days a week. Notably, the ACCURL operates continuously thanks to high-end components like the RAYCUS laser source and BOCI cutting head. SMT continues to invest in technology and services. Certified to ISO 1090 and ISO 9001, the company offers added-value capabilities such as rolling, press braking, drilling and plate marking.

“Even in a tough market, we must invest,” concludes Harvey Thompson. “We’re already thinking about the next laser cutter – something bigger and more powerful.”