Twenty-five to 150 Watts of CO 2 laser power is recommended for direct marking of metals. Forty or 50 Watts of Fiber laser power can be used for direct laser marking metals. At least 50 watts of Fiber laser power is recommended for metal laser cutting or engraving. Laser Power – Must be selected based on the processes that will be performed. The 10.6 micron wavelength CO 2 laser is the best choice for indirect marking process using metal marking compound or coating removal. Wavelength – The 1.06 micron wavelength is absorbed well by most metals and is recommended for laser cutting, engraving, and direct marking metals. Platform Size – Must be large enough to hold the largest pieces of metal that will be laser processed or be equipped with Class 4 capability for processing larger pieces. General Metal Laser System Considerations The laser cutting, engraving, and marking processes described above can be combined without having to move or re-fixture the metal part.
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Laser marking can be used to convey information such a serial number or a logo. Metal can also be marked indirectly, either by adding a coating such as metal marking compound, or by removing a coating such as paint. The Fiber laser can also be used to create a bright, or polished, mark on the metal surface. This oxidation causes the metal that has been exposed to the laser beam to darken, creating an indelible, black mark. In direct marking, the laser beam energy heats the metal surface causing it to oxidize. Direct laser marking can be done with either a Fiber laser or a CO 2 laser.
There are several different types of laser marking that can be used for metals. Laser marking changes the appearance of the metal surface without removing material. The laser engraving process can be used to create permanent identification marks that can’t be removed by heat or wear. Therefore metal engraving is usually done in multiple passes. However removing this much metal in a single pass could cause melting or distortion. The common depth for metal laser engraving is 0.003 to 0.005” (75 to 125 microns). Several laser engraving passes are usually required. The power of the Fiber laser beam can be limited so that it removes (engraves) material to a specified depth. A jet of high pressure air is used to remove the metal as it melts, resulting in smooth and straight edges with minimal heat affected zone. If the laser power is sufficiently high, the laser beam will melt completely through the material. The energy of a Fiber laser beam is easily absorbed by most metals, causing the material directly in the path of the laser beam to rapidly heat up and melt. The most common processes for metals are the following: Experienced graphic designers and engravers are available to cater to your needs and provide any technical information you may require.All materials have unique characteristics that dictate how the laser beam interacts and consequently modifies the material. If not, doing a test on the material is always the safest bet! Just remember: Not everything is engrave-able, but we will do our best in advising you in your options. Chances are, we have processed the material before and can advise you to the engrave-ability of the material. Quality of materials and manufacture processes change constantly, therefore should you be unsure of which process you require to brand your item, give our team a call.
The range of materials used in the manufacture of promotional goods are endless. We, the 2BLUE team pride ourselves in delivering a quality end product and expert advice, whilst meeting reasonable deadlines. With the further addition of our NdYag engraving machines, it is possible to mark metals quicker and more cost effectively Laser and scratch engraving adds value to your promotional products as the result is often subtle and more elegant than traditional printing or branding techniques. Applications include decorative marking or branding, serialisation of goods, personalisation of gift items, etc. Permanent marking is achieved by modern laser technologies that ensure permanent branding and marking solutions.