Beyond technologies, the Club Laser et Procédés highlights the women and men who drive laser innovation forward every day. Through the series “CLP and Its Premium Members”, we meet those who, through their expertise, vision and collective commitment, structure and energize the French laser industry.
Today, the spotlight is on CHARMILLES, a brand of the Swiss group UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS, specializing in high-precision laser machine tools for surface texturing and functionalization, micro-machining, as well as micro-cutting and drilling. Renowned for its unique approach combining software, machine and application, CHARMILLES addresses both complex geometries and more conventional parts, with an unmatched level of precision and flexibility.
Its Sales Director, Jean-Louis Facila, shares his vision of industrial laser technology, looks back at a major technological innovation, and explains the strategic value of Premium membership within the CLP.
Could you introduce your organization and its core expertise?
“CHARMILLES is the brand manufacturing high-precision laser machine tools for surface texturing and functionalization, micro-machining, and micro-cutting/drilling, within the Swiss group UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS.
Our distinctive feature lies in a unique package on the market, combining software, machine and application, enabling the processing of parts with complex shapes – and simpler ones if required – with a very high level of process control.”
Which recent innovations or achievements are you most proud of?
“Our most recent innovation is our ability to machine cavities and shapes with straight flanks and perfectly vertical walls.
This technological breakthrough provides a credible alternative to more conventional processes such as high-speed milling or sinker EDM, and clearly demonstrates the full potential of laser technology as a precision machining tool.”
How long have you been a member of the Club Laser & Procédés, and what does this membership bring you?
“We have been members of the CLP for several years, between five and ten. This membership gives us valuable visibility for our applications, which are often positioned in niche markets.
On a personal level, it also allows me to broaden my knowledge of industrial laser technology as a whole and to regularly exchange with other experts, each in their own field.”
Why did you choose Premium membership, and what benefits do you gain from it?
“Premium membership provides us with even greater visibility. Participation in the PLI Conferences is both a strong communication channel and the opportunity to take part in a highly efficient event, where all laser stakeholders come together.
The conferences, technical exchanges and informal discussions, in a friendly atmosphere, greatly facilitate the sharing of information.
We can also communicate throughout the year via the CLP’s media: website, news pages, LinkedIn, Newslaser, and more.”
In your opinion, what are the upcoming innovations or trends in the laser sector?
“It is difficult to look too far ahead, as laser technology is evolving so rapidly.
What I am certain of, however, is that its future remains extremely promising. Today, with a laser, we can cut, weld, machine, drill, texture, mark…
What other industrial tool offers such versatility?
Thank you to the CLP for facilitating this connection between stakeholders and for keeping this network alive – it is absolutely essential.”
Through the testimony of Jean-Louis Facila, a strong conviction emerges: laser technology is establishing itself as an industrial tool of unparalleled versatility and precision, capable of competing with the most established machining technologies while opening up new paths for micro-manufacturing and surface functionalization.
By combining technological innovation, process expertise and commitment within the Club Laser et Procédés, CHARMILLES perfectly illustrates the added value of Premium membership: enhanced visibility, high-level exchanges and active participation in structuring the industry.
Because innovation is built collectively, the CLP invites all committed players to join this dynamic and contribute to the influence of the French industrial laser community.
>> Want to become part of this momentum in 2026?
Join the network and discover the membership application form here.
