1. High-Reflective Materials

1.1 Definition

High-reflective materials are those that exhibit a high reflectance (typically ≥70%) for specific wavelengths of light, reflecting most of the incident light while absorbing or transmitting only a small portion. Compared with ordinary materials, high-reflective materials absorb very little laser energy — most of the beam is reflected, resulting in low processing efficiency and potential back-reflection damage to the laser system.

1.2 Reflection Type

The reflected light from these materials is specular (directed reflection toward a specific angle) rather than diffuse, which is the key reason they pose a significant hazard to laser equipment.

1.3 Material Range

Common high-reflective materials include mirror-finish metals such as mirror stainless steel, mirror aluminum, copper, silver, and gold, all of which can cause strong laser reflection.

2. Recommendations for Processing High-Reflective Materials

2.1 Angled Processing

When placing high-reflective materials flat inside the machine, insert a flat spacer (>1 mm thick) under one side of the material. This creates a slight tilt angle between the material surface and the Laser Module’s output beam, reducing the risk of direct laser reflection back into the module.

2.2 Optical Path Shielding

Apply a black water-based marker evenly across the surface, or use Black Laser Marking Spray on the processing area. This dark coating changes the surface color and effectively reduces laser reflectivity, minimizing reflection damage.

2.3 Surface Polishing

Use sandpaper or similar abrasive tools to polish the surface of the material, removing the mirror-like gloss. This reduces surface reflectivity and helps prevent specular reflection from affecting the laser beam.