Retired Prima Power Laserdyne technical director dies

Peter G. Thompson

Prima Power Laserdyne, a manufacturer of industrial laser systems in Champlin, Minn., has announced that laser technology authority Peter G. Thompson died following cardiac arrest on Jan. 4, 2017, at age 69.

Recognized worldwide for his expertise in laser processing, Thompson served as technical director for the company for more than 35 years and was recently retired. He began his career with Marconi Co. Ltd. and was a student apprentice with Compton Parkinson Ltd. Before starting his own firm, Thompson was a senior process engineer for JK Laser Ltd. for 10 years. He also held senior engineering positions with Lucas Aerospace Ltd. and MTE Ltd.

Educated in the U.K., Thompson held degrees in mechanical and electrical engineering.

Throughout his career, Thompson worked with many aerospace, automotive, and general manufacturers, developing and implementing custom laser material processing systems, troubleshooting existing laser processes, and developing training programs for engineers and system operators. A frequent contributing author to technical publications, Thompson was a sought-after presenter at laser processing conferences worldwide.