!%IPG Photonics Corp.%! of Oxford, Mass., and Lincoln Electric Holdings Inc. of Cleveland have announced the formation of a strategic partnership to explore global opportunities in the high-power laser welding and cutting market. The former company is a high-power fiber laser and amplifier provider, and the latter specializes in arc welding and cutting products. Lincoln Electric selected IPG to be part of its strategic supplier vendor list in its effort to enhance supply chain and technology development relationships with critical industry partners. Under the agreement, the two companies will jointly provide expanded turnkey hybrid fiber laser-metal inert gas welding solutions to international industrial customers. The contract also addresses cooperative sales, applications development and marketing.