Laserline GmbH is a leading developer and manufacturer of high-power diode laser systems, headquartered in Mülheim-Kärlich, Germany. Founded in 1997 by Dr. Christoph Ullmann and Volker Krause, the company has evolved from a small start-up into a global entity with approximately 360 employees and subsidiaries in key markets such as the U.S., Brazil, Mexico, China, South Korea, Japan, and India. Specializing in diode laser technologies, Laserline designs and produces laser systems for industrial applications across materials processing, welding, additive manufacturing, and surface treatment. Its systems are used in industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to semiconductor manufacturing and renewable energy.
Known for their modular design and high efficiency, Laserline’s lasers enable precise, energy-efficient processes critical for modern manufacturing. The company’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in innovations that reduce environmental impact, such as laser solutions for battery production and energy-saving drying processes. In January 2025, Dr. Claus Narr joined the founding team as the third managing director, expanding strategic leadership as Laserline continues to scale its operations and technological advancements.
Battery Technology
Laserline’s diode laser technology plays a pivotal role in the battery value chain, particularly for lithium-ion battery production. Their systems address critical challenges in electrode coating, welding, and material processing. One breakthrough is their laser drying process, which enables rapid and energy-efficient drying of electrode coatings during roll-to-roll production. This method achieves up to 85% energy savings compared to conventional thermal drying, reducing operational costs and environmental footprints while improving production speed and quality.
The introduction of the world’s first continuous-wave blue diode laser (445 nm) has further expanded their impact. Blue lasers effectively process highly reflective materials like copper, a key component in battery cells and electric vehicle (EV) motors. This technology minimizes heat-affected zones during welding, ensuring durable, high-quality seals for battery modules and packs. For instance, Laserline’s blue lasers are optimized for pulse-mode operation, enabling precise spot welding in battery assembly without compromising structural integrity.
Additionally, Laserline’s high-power systems, such as the LDF-15,000-DR and LDF-30,000-DR models, deliver output powers up to 30 kW with wall-plug efficiencies exceeding 50%. These systems are used for large-scale processes, including laser metal deposition and surface hardening, which are vital for battery housing and electrode repair. The company’s participation in initiatives like the IDEEL project—a research collaboration aimed at scaling laser-based drying—further underscores their leadership in advancing sustainable battery manufacturing.
Recent Projects
In January 2025, Laserline strengthened its leadership team with Dr. Claus Narr as managing director, reinforcing its focus on R&D and global expansion. At SPIE Photonics West 2025, the company showcased its full blue diode laser portfolio, including a new 6 kW continuous-wave (CW) blue laser. This innovation, leveraging Wavelength Beam Combining (WBC) technology, enhances processing capabilities for copper and gold in battery and electronics manufacturing.
In 2024, Laserline acquired a majority stake in WBC Photonics, a German firm specializing in high-brightness laser beam combination. This move expanded its capacity to produce lasers with superior beam quality, advancing applications in additive manufacturing and precision welding. The integration of WBC technology also supports the development of compact, high-performance laser systems for emerging markets such as EV battery production and semiconductor fabrication.
Investors
Laserline GmbH operates as an independent German company, with ownership tied to its founding team and shareholders. Publicly disclosed investor information is not available, as the company focuses on organic growth and strategic partnerships rather than external funding.
Business Details
Location: Mülheim-Kärlich, Germany
Website: https://www.laserline.com/en-int/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/6477933
