ROCK ISLAND, IL - Crawford Company has announced an expansion for its’ Laser Division.  The company has acquired and placed two 1350-watt laser-cutting machines into operation.  Additional growth may occur in mid 2006. 

“Our new machines allow us to improve efficiencies, reduce pricing, shorten lead times, and increase capacity,” said Bob Frink, President. “This move greatly benefits our operation, while allowing our customers greater flexibility.”

The Laser Division provides customers with precision cuts for mild steel, stainless steel, tool steel, aluminum, and plastics.  The cutting center, which now features three machines, is one of the largest in the Quad-City Area.

The division, compliments Crawford's long-standing tradition of excellence in specialty fabrication.  Crawford presents complete services in reference to laser cutting, high definition plasma, CNC punching, metal forming, and welding.

The machines include: a Balliu 1700-watt “dual-head” plasma/laser cutter, which feature dual pallets with a 2000-pound sheet capacity; as well as two Balliu 1350-watt laser cutters, which feature dual pallets with a 1000-pound sheet capacity.  The 1700-watt laser has been in operation since 2000.

“The new additions help Crawford’s Laser Division become one of the most versatile and competitive options in the region,” said Larry Flaherty, Director of Laser Operations. “The increased capacity, positions us for the opportunity to grow jobs in this division and gain market share.”

Crawford Company, founded in 1952, operates out of a 50,000-square foot facility in Rock Island’s Sunset Business Park.  The company specializes in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, laser cutting, and specialty fabrication.  The company has one subsidiary, Monoxivent, which specializes in source capture solutions.