Europe Steel Center from Moerdijk has laid the foundation for the future of its production with a tailor-made Element L fiber laser cutting system from Messer Cutting Systems.
© Messer Cutting Systems
The new solution combines modern technology, high energy efficiency and uncompromising precision – and is more than just a machine purchase: it marks the beginning of a new way of thinking in sheet metal processing. The gigantic cutting system not only replaces two CO₂ lasers and a plasma cutting system, but also brings clear benefits for the environment, productivity and material flow. Innovation, sustainability and efficiency.
“The topic of fiber lasers had been on our radar for years,” says Edward van Herpen, CEO at Europe Steel Center, looking back. “But we wanted to wait for the right moment – and that came in 2024.” The company, which specializes in large-format sheet metal, was specifically looking for a solution to modernize its production capacities and make them future-proof. “It wasn’t just about buying a new machine,” adds Tony Oerlemans, Technical Director of the project and Manager QHSE & Continuous Improvement. “We wanted to rethink cutting – more efficiently, more sustainably and with the highest technical precision.”
Size, technology and trust
After a comprehensive market comparison, the team opted for Messer Cutting Systems. The requirements were high: bevel cutting on sheets up to 40 mm thick, flexibility in material sizes and fully automated integration into the internal material flow.
“We compared all the major suppliers worldwide – but Messer convinced us the most,” emphasizes Oerlemans. The decision in favor of Messer Cutting Systems was not made by chance – it was the result of a clear list of requirements, which the cutting machine manufacturer fulfilled precisely. “What convinced us was the overall package,” says Tony Oerlemans. “We didn’t need a standard solution, but a machine that exactly matched our requirements.”
Several factors were decisive: the exceptionally large processing area (16 m x 3.5 m) of the machine, its high laser power for thick sheets, the state-of-the-art technical equipment with numerous options, the intuitive operability – and last but not least, the reliable service directly on site. “Messer Cutting Systems’ good reputation in the industry also played an important role,” adds Oerlemans. “We knew that here: This works.”
© Messer Cutting Systems
Productivity redefined
The Element L is the flagship among the fiber laser cutting systems from Messer Cutting Systems – specially developed for XXL sheets, maximum cutting quality and maximum energy efficiency. Available with fiber laser sources in various power levels, the system offers an outstanding ratio of speed, precision and reliability – even with high material thicknesses.
Thanks to the modular machine design, the Element L can be optimally adapted to specific requirements. The Bevel-U bevel unit enables the production of precise bevel cuts with infinitely adjustable angles and extremely tight tolerances. This is particularly important for weld seam preparation. In addition, the separately driven needle marking system enables permanent marking of the components in a matter of seconds.
The solution at Europe Steel Center includes automatically changeable cutting tables and integration in two halls for separate loading and unloading processes. The robust machine frame on precision linear guides, modern CNC with Global Connect and an automatic nozzle checking and changing system (LNC) make the Element L a future-proof investment. This enables unmanned operation of the machine. Thanks to the traveling LNC unit, long travel distances for nozzle changes are no longer necessary. This contributes to a significant increase in process efficiency.
“The Element L fits perfectly with our customer’s vision,” explains Bas Sanders van Well, Business Unit Manager Benelux at Messer Cutting Systems. “It stands for dynamism, scalability and precision – exactly what Europe Steel Center needs for its next stage of growth.”
Precision in large format
Under the project name “XXXL laser cutting line”, preparations for the production area began in mid-2024. The new system went into operation in March 2025. The Element L was integrated into the material flow in such a way that loading and unloading can now take place separately in two production halls. “This is a real game changer for us,” says van Herpen. “We were able to eliminate bottlenecks in the crane systems – this saves time, reduces waiting times and increases work safety.”
The new solution is also a step forward in terms of energy: “The new laser machine replaces two CO₂ lasers and a plasma cutting system – this not only saves energy, but also a lot of wearing parts,” emphasizes Oerlemans. “And our operators are also pleased that they only have to operate one control system.”
© Messer Cutting Systems
Partnership at eye level
The cooperation between Europe Steel Center and Messer Cutting Systems was experienced by both sides as an extremely cooperative partnership. “We met as equals,” recalls Edward van Herpen. “An extremely professional team that understood our requirements exactly.” In addition, the implementation went smoothly – from the laying of the foundations to the rail construction and commissioning.
Messer Cutting Systems is also proud of the project: “Europe Steel Center is a perfect partner for our Element L – large-format requirements, a high level of quality awareness and a passion for innovation come together here,” adds Bas Sanders an Well. “It was clear to us that we had to deliver not just a machine, but a solution that would have a lasting effect. The fact that we were able to achieve such far-reaching improvements together is also a highlight for us.”
More is possible
Europe Steel Center and Messer are currently examining further solutions for the future together. “The collaboration has convinced us. Now we are looking at the next steps,” reveals Oerlemans. These ideas are still in their infancy – but the foundations for further growth have been laid.
