Abstract: In the case of a process for producing composite material components, thermoplastic prepreg tapes (1) are laid onto a laying surface of a composite material component (2) that is still to be completed, are heated by means of laser radiation (3) and are pressed by means of a pressure-exerting pad (4, 23) of an elastic-flexible material, for example an elastomer. The pressure-exerting pad (4, 23) has a low absorption to the laser radiation (3). This may be achieved, for example, by a translucence of the pad material (6) along with a low absorption coefficient or by a reflective surface. A constant contact pressure is achieved by means of a fluid located in the pressure-exerting pad (4, 23). The internal pressure of the pressure-exerting pad (4, 23) may be controlled to a constant value. Moreover, the pressure-exerting pad (4, 23) may be cooled by means of the fluid.