A company which makes plasma torches used to heat steel and waste products has gained a prestigious quality award, writes Sarah Parker.

Tetronics, based in Faringdon, has less than 30 employees, yet over the last 35 years it has become a world leader in the production of high-powered DC plasma arc systems.

The company says its technical experts tackle plasma issues in an integrated manner from basic principles. The result is that Tetronics plasma torches and systems are designed in a new way, offering substantial advantages over competitors.

Last year the UK Design Council recognised the company's creativity and innovation by designating its Plasma Twin Torch as a 'Millennium Product' and the company decided to apply for British Standard ISO 9001 certification, which it gained on its first attempt.

Traditionally plasma torches have been used in the steel and waste industries.

However research by Tetronics has meant that plasmas are now used in a variety of environmental and materials processing applications.