As the use of lasers for jewellery manufacturing and repair continues to grow, jewellers are now realising their full potential by using this precision technology to undertake welding and joining processes which cannot be
performed using traditional methods, without risking damage to the precious metals or stones. Rofins’ StarWeld Performance laser has long been established as the clear market leader within the jewellery sector, and this reputation is now being further enhanced by the skill and innovation of individual jewellers as explained by Steve Davison of Deacon & Sons Limited.
Deacon & Son (Swindon) Ltd, was founded as a jewellers, watch & clock makers by George Deacon in 1848 and today still remains a family run business, now in its sixth generation. The company’s ongoing success and longevity can be attributed to a combination of dedication to quality, entrepreneurship and the willingness to embrace innovation, exemplified in their use of Laser technology for Jewellery manufacture and repair.
Deacons’ purchased their Rofin StarWeld Performance some 5 years ago and the Laser, although not totally replacing the traditional flame for soldering, has however become the mainstay for Jewellery repair here.
Steve Davison explains “The ability to be able to focus the beam so precisely and therefore produce only localized heat is a real benefit when working on intricate fretwork or in the close vicinity of delicate stones.
Using the laser also means that we save significant amounts of time as we do not have to remove and then re-set stones when making repairs. This saving in time is a direct benefit to the customer as it reduces the cost.”
The transition to Laser is really quite straightforward says Steve Davison, “The Laser does not replace the craftsman skills which are essential in this industry, but actually enhances them through the precision and control available from the process. This in turn boosts confidence when undertaking some work which would be extremely difficult with the more traditional processes.”
The laser here has clearly established itself an integral part of this business and looks set to feature as a significant milestone in the company’s illustrious history. Reliable and Proven Technology. StarWeld Performance users benefit from a process of continuous improvement which is based upon extensive customer feedback.
The result is a system that inspires innovation and enhances the skills of the jeweller through precise control of the joining process. Rofin offers a complete range of lasers including CO2, YAG, vanadate and fibre lasers. Rofin also provides solutions for laser cutting and marking applications.
For further info: www.rofin.co.uk