As a new user entering the world of laser marking, selecting the appropriate machine can seem daunting due to the technical nature of the decision. With numerous laser marking machine types on the market, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of their intricacies in order to make an informed choice based on your specific needs.

In this guide, we will delve into the basics of laser marking, examining its various types and how they function.

The Ins and Outs of Laser Engraving

Laser Engraving involves using high-power laser beams to remove material from a surface. The resulting engravings present deep cuts of 0.001-0.125 inches that are tactile and provide a 3D appearance to the object. This high-energy process transforms the solid surface of the material into a gaseous state, called sublimation, and leaves behind a dark 3D mark. Engraving requires very high-power laser beams, more powerful than laser etching and laser marking.

What is Laser Marking and How it Works

Laser Marking, the fastest of these processes, uses low-energy beams to decolorize material, thus, allowing bulk processing for creating lasting marks.

It is also referred to as laser coloration or laser dark marking, as well as charring for plastic materials and annealing for metals. Unlike engraving, this process doesn't remove particles but rather instigates a reaction when particles come into contact with the laser beams. This process induces chemical and physical changes, leading to clear, high-contrast marks.

As the highly concentrated beams make contact with the material's surface, marks are created on the material due to the high temperature of the focused beams. They alter its physical properties, causing a visible change in appearance due to the transfer of energy. These marks have a contrast, which is why they are visible and clear.

Different Types of Laser Marking

Laser Marking isn't a one-size-fits-all process; it's composed of four main techniques:

1. Laser Annealing: This method heats up a material, usually metal, and makes it change color. It doesn't remove or add any material; it just makes a visible and long-lasting mark.
2. Carbon Migration: The heat from the laser brings carbon to the surface of a material, leaving a dark mark. It's great for metals and ceramics.
3. Foaming: Here, the laser heat makes tiny bubbles in a material, usually plastic, that create a raised mark you can feel.
4. Coloration: This method changes the color of a material's surface by carefully controlling the heat from the laser. It's perfect for creating colorful, detailed marks on different materials.

Exploring the Multifaceted Uses of Laser Marking

The laser marking process is user-friendly, speedy, and capable of handling large volumes. Furthermore, the process only requires uploading the desired design or text to the laser engraver software, and the machine autonomously completes the marking.

The contactless process also made it safe for both the user and the material. With these being said, laser marking is especially ideal for long-lasting markings, such as bar codes, logos, QR codes, and identification marks, and other designs to products. Precious jewelry items and diamonds can also be laser marked with intricate detail. Additionally, machine parts, automotive components, textiles, ceramics, and various other materials can be efficiently marked using laser machines.

That's all for today! In the next post, we'll share tips about how to choose the right laser for marking.