Powerlase reports 'record' year-on-year growth

23 Feb 2007

DPSS laser developer posts 400% growth as turnover increases from £2.4 million to £9.5 million.

Powerlase, the Crawley, UK-based manufacturer of the world's most powerful nanosecond Q-switched, diode-pumped solid state lasers, this week announced record turnover for the financial year ending December 31 2006. Following growth in 2005 of 233%, turnover has increased 400% in the last year, from £2.4 million to £9.5 million.

Over the past year, the company has strengthened its position as a global laser supplier through the development of its distribution channels. It now has operations in Europe, Korea, Japan, Taiwan and China.

The flat panel display market as notable as one of Powerlase's growth areas, both in PDP (plasma) and LCD (liquid crystal) markets. During 2006 the company received significant orders from market leaders Samsung and LG Electronics.

Product development has continued in the past year, including that in anticipation of future market developments. In 2006, Powerlase commenced work with the University of Central Florida in the field of extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV), in connection with high-power laser-produced plasma (LPP) EUV sources. This collaboration will likely lead to the next-generation of clean and cost effective laser-produced plasma, The company stated.

"The year 2006 firmly put us on the global map," said Tony King, Powerlase CEO. "This solid growth was, and will continue to be, driven by our laser system application expertise and our customer-focused approach."

"Our laser technology teams have established a footprint in future markets through our work with the UCF, which will result in a cleaner and more cost effective LPP laser produced plasma in the field of EUV. This strategic technology is vital for the production of Semiconductors in the 32 nm range and below."