“Laser marking” means marking or labeling parts and materials with a laser beam. In this sense, different procedures are differentiated, such as etching, elimination, discoloration, annealing or annealing and foaming. Each of these procedures has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the material and the result that is being sought.
Advantages of laser marking
Resistant marking
The laser marking is permanent and at the same time resistant to wear, heat and acids. Depending on the setting of the laser parameters, certain materials can also be marked without damaging their surface.
High marking speed
Laser marking is one of the fastest treatment procedures on the market. This results in high productivity and cost advantages for manufacturing. Depending on the availability and dimensions of the material, different laser sources (eg fiber laser) or laser machines (such as Industrad Group lasers) allow for further speed increases.
Laser Marking System is an application of Video Inkjet Printer.
Get to know our Industrad Group marking lasers
What materials can be laser marked?
Metals
- Stainless steel, aluminum, gold, silver, titanium, bronze, platinum or copper
Plastics
- ABS, polycarbonate, polyamide, PMMA, or plastics with laser additives
Other materials
- Films and packaging. Laminate
Depending on the material, different types of lasers are used for laser marking (solid and CO 2 laser )
Differences between different laser marking techniques
Learn the basics of different laser marking techniques
Annealing or annealing
This is a special type of laser marking for metals. The effect of the heat generated by the laser beam causes an oxidation process below the surface of the material that results in a color change on the surface of the metal.
Discoloration
During bleaching, the effect of heat generated by the laser beam causes a chemical reaction in the material. Depending on the composition of the material, different shades of color are produce. If, for example, a light-colored plastic is discolored by laser marking, soot particles may appear, resulting in a dark marking.
Laser engraving
During laser engraving, the surface of the material is melted and evaporated with the laser. That is, the laser beam removes the material. The depression that occurs on the surface is etching.
Elimination
During removal, the laser beam removes the top layers applied to the base material. The difference in color between the top coat and the base coat produces a contrast. Common materials that are marked by removal are anodized aluminum, painted metals, films, or laminates.
Foamed
During foaming, the laser beam melts the material. This causes gas bubbles in the material, which reflect light diffusely. In this way, the marking is clearer than the unmarked areas. This type of laser marking is used mostly with dark plastics.
