LOWES Hire and Engineering in Ōpōtiki is offering a new service, using a hi-tech laser to prepare metal for painting and other treatments.

Managing director Jamie Lowe said the fibre laser cleaner was used for removing paint and rust.

“It’s used for metal preparation and makes it easy to get into the nooks and crannies,” he said.

“You can even get into the insides of pipes, for instance.

“It’s very effective on paint,” Mr Lowe said.

Using the laser to prepare metal for treatment was far easier than sand blasting.

There were several shapes available for configuring the laser beam, including circles and planes.

“The laser draws quite a bit of power, but is environmentally friendly,” Mr Lowe said.

“It does not create any debris and does not use any chemicals.”

Lowes Hire and Engineering can give customers a quote for the desired work, he said.