Successful Review of the CLT Acquisition – 4JET Strengthens Its Position in Laser Glass Processing for the Long Term
Innovation Drive, New Patent Strategy, and Expansion of Presence in Asia
One year after acquiring Corning Laser Technologies GmbH, the 4JET Group (based in Alsdorf near Aachen, Germany) reports an allaround positive outcome. The integration of the company acquired in early 2025 has been largely completed and has significantly strengthened 4JET’s technological and strategic position in the field of laser-based glass processing.
The key measures required to integrate the former CLT site in Krailling and the international teams were implemented within a short period of time. These included the complete disentanglement from the former corporate group, the consolidation of organizational structures, and a comprehensive streamlining and refocusing of the joint product portfolio. Despite these farreaching structural changes, all ongoing customer projects were executed as planned and completed on schedule.
Technological Milestones
In parallel with the organizational integration, the company achieved substantial technological progress. Significant advances were made in both equipment development and process technology, enabling the strengthened 4JET organization to set new benchmarks. One outstanding example is the further development of EnP technology (Enhanced nanoPerforation), which once again delivered significant improvements in edge quality.
When cutting highly precise glass components – such as waveguides for augmented reality glasses – the 4JET process achieves edge strength that exceeds the results of conventional ultrashortpulse (USP) laser cutting processes by more than a factor of two.
“The past twelve months have demonstrated the enormous potential created by combining CLT’s technologies with 4JET’s innovative strength,” says Jörg Jetter, CEO of the 4JET Group. “Not only did we complete the integration faster and more smoothly than initially planned, but we also significantly expanded our technological leadership in laser glass processing.”
New Patent Strategy
As a result of the acquisition, 4JET has significantly expanded its patent portfolio in the field of laser-based glass processing. The portfolio now comprises more than 60 patent families covering, among other areas, the use of nondiffractive, linear, or Bessel beams for glass cutting, as well as numerous processes for thermal separation and the production of internal contours.
As of December 31, 2025, all licensing agreements with manufacturers of laser sources or optical components were terminated. Companies seeking to use 4JET technology in a legally secure manner can now contact 4JET directly to establish individual licensing arrangements. At the same time, the company granted a comprehensive pastuse license to a leading international glass manufacturer, releasing its installed base of laser systems from potential claims.
“We invest more than 10 percent of our revenue in research and development on a regular basis –more than most of our competitors,” Jetter explains. “Our customers benefit from these innovations and contribute to financing them through the price of our solutions. To protect this investment for both sides, we will consistently defend our patent portfolio.”
Expansion of International Presence
To market its new products and capabilities in Japan, 4JET has entered into a distribution agreement with Shibuya Corporation. Shibuya is a publicly listed Japanese mechanical engineering company. Through this partnership, Shibuya’s portfolio is complemented by 4JET solutions, enabling both companies to serve their shared customer base in Japan with automation systems, local project management, and comprehensive service support.