Laser Photonics enters data center supply chain with $800k order
Laser Photonics Corporation delivered its first robotic laser cleaning cell to Vander-Bend Manufacturing for $800,000, entering the data center infrastructure supply chain. The system automates the removal of zinc coatings before welding, addressing labor shortages and improving consistency. CEO Wayne Tupuola highlighted the potential for follow-on orders and expansion into other sectors like defense and semiconductors.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Laser Photonics Corporation has delivered its first robotic laser cleaning cell to Vander-Bend Manufacturing, marking its entry into the data center infrastructure supply chain through an order valued at approximately $800,000. The system automates a critical pre-weld process for zinc-coated sheet metal panels used in data centers, addressing labor-intensive bottlenecks faced by manufacturers. This delivery positions Laser Photonics within a capital-intensive sector supporting the nation's largest hyperscale operators.
Vander-Bend Manufacturing, a U.S.-based precision sheet metal manufacturer, supplies infrastructure components for data centers. Before welding, the zinc coating must be removed from each weld zone to ensure proper bonding. This work was previously completed by hand, creating a bottleneck, while conventional methods like bead blasting struggled to reach the panels' complex geometries.
System Specifications and Capabilities
The enclosed robotic cell utilizes two coordinated robots. One robot positions each part, while the second directs a laser ablation head to clean the required weld zones. The system is programmable by part type, allowing Vander-Bend to process multiple components on the same machine by changing software programs rather than using dedicated equipment.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Customer | Vander-Bend Manufacturing |
| Order Value | $800,000 |
| Product | Robotic laser cleaning cell |
| Sector | Data center infrastructure |
Strategic Growth and Market Outlook
Chief Executive Officer Wayne Tupuola stated that the delivery marks Laser Photonics' entry into the fast-growing data center infrastructure market. He noted that rising demand is pressuring suppliers to address labor shortages and improve consistency in manual production. Automating pre-weld preparation allows manufacturers to increase output without adding workers.
Tupuola added that the system's programmable design could support follow-on orders from Vander-Bend as production expands. The technology also holds potential for other industries requiring precision surface preparation, including defense, semiconductors, medical devices, and electric vehicle batteries.
What is the anticipated timeline for Vander-Bend to scale production to the point of requiring follow-on orders?
How will this entry into the data center supply chain impact Laser Photonics' revenue projections for the upcoming fiscal year?
Are there plans to adapt this robotic technology for the defense or semiconductor sectors mentioned as potential growth areas?



























