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10 Things to Know About Dot Peen Marking Machines

Industrial part marking

10 Things to Know About Dot Peen Marking Machines

10 Things to Know About Dot Peen Marking Machines

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The use of dot peen marking machines is prevalent in various industries. This popularity is due to the number of different configurations possible, including mixed-use where portable can become integrated in a short amount of time. 

 

What is Dot Peen Marking? 

Dot peen marking is a process utilizing either electromagnetic or pneumatic force to rapidly vibrate a stylus and indent a predetermined system of marks into a surface. This process provides a reliable marking method for industries where precise tracking processes are required and extended product ID readability is required. 

 

Dot Peen Marking: 10 Manufacturing Benefits

Numerous industries have set regulations for product IDs regarding both longevity and readability. The automotive industry, for example, integrates dot peen marking systems into its production line, providing the opportunity to mark different types of parts with an ID that will be readable and last. 

There are 10 notable features of dot peen marking machines: 

 

  1. Versatility
  2. Micro-percussion
  3. Industry 4.0
  4. Data storage
  5. Marking options
  6. Capable of marking various materials
  7. Low maintenance
  8. No waste generated
  9. Marks uneven surfaces
  10. Adaptable based on market needs

 

1. Versatility

A dot peen marking machine can be portable, which is ideal for marking large part batches, frames, or other large products. For marking and engraving small to medium-sized parts, the machine can be attached to a column base. This can be done quickly and efficiently, allowing you to integrate it into a line for mass production as well. 

 

2. Longevity

This style of marking makes numerous impressions using a stylus to deform the material. The mark is permanent and will be readable for the life of the part. This method is increasingly popular for bicycles, aircraft parts, and VINs on vehicles.

 

3. Industry 4.0

Today’s industrial manufacturing is moving into its next iteration: Industry 4.0. This phase has a focus on real-time, connected interfaces that allow for external influence from a distance. The dot peen marking machine can be connected to the network to share information in real time. This also allows for external control and automation of the marking process. 

The grid connection can also allow data compilation to ultimately anticipate maintenance needs, such as lubrication or part replacement. 

 

4. Data Storage

Datamatrix has significant capacity allowing for up to 2335 alphanumeric or 3116 numeric characters in 1 cm² surface. This type of code also provides a reliable and readable mark, even with up to 20% deterioration. 

 

5. Marking Options

There are numerous options for marking parts, available as needed and with minimal adjustment. These include:

  1. Alphanumeric
  2. 2D code
  3. Visuals
  4. Orientation and deformation

 

6. Capable of Marking Various Materials

Dot peen marking machines allow for marking a variety of materials, but there is a limit based on the durability of the material. Steel, aluminum, bronze, and carbide are only some of the materials that can be successfully marked by a dot peen marking machine. 

 

 7. Low Maintenance

The dot peen marking system utilizes a tungsten carbide stylus, which is long-lasting but does wear out over time. The continuous impact with durable materials means replacement is necessary at some point, and plans should be made accordingly. Another regular maintenance task is to reset the stylus spring, which is done at the time the stylus is replaced. 

 

8. No Waste Generated

No fractures occur in the materials during dot peen marking, as the focus is creating a mark in the material without removing any layers. With no material removed, no waste material is generated. 

 

9. Marks Uneven Surfaces

Dot peen marking can be done on non-flat surfaces. The machine can mark a surface with a difference of up to 5mm. Cylinders and angular surfaces can also be marked. 

 

10. Adaptable Based on Product Requirements

Accessories accompany dot peen marking machines, expanding on their versatility. For products that require a more specific marking process, personalization of the dot peen marking process is possible. 

The number of controller outputs is adaptable, and accessories such as a bellows (ideal for dusty environments) or a clamping system, are available to adapt the machine as necessary. The clamping system provides an opportunity to mark the median as well as the circumference of the product. 

 

Dot Peen Marking Machines Deliver

Dot peen marking machines are efficient and versatile, providing options for both portable and integrated use. These machines are the solution to creating long-lasting marks with no materials removed from the product surface. 

The integration of a dot peen marking machine into your mass production process can ensure your products effectively meet regulatory requirements. 

 

Ready to Learn More? 

Dot peen marking systems are versatile, up-to-date, and create little to no waste. For more information on the dot peen marking process, consider these resources: 

Direct Part Marking 101 | Defense and Military Applications

10 Industrial Part Marking Considerations – TechnoMark

Marking Machines: Are They The Best Method For Your Materials? – TechnoMark

 

automatic laser engraving

Direct Part Marking 101 | Industrial Metal Engraving Machine for Custom-Use Cases

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Customized part marking is essential for the successful production of parts in a variety of industries. By applying unique identifiers to each part or component, manufacturers can ensure precision in their production process while ensuring traceability throughout product life cycles. An industrial metal engraving machine provides that capability during the production process.

Part marking is also an essential tool for reducing waste and improving efficiency across a variety of sectors. In fact, the use of metal marking is vital to the production of more industries than you think. 

6 Uses for Custom Part Marking in Industrial Settings

The use of an industrial metal engraving machine is well worth the investment for a variety of industries, but the following six see particular advantages: 

  • Aerospace part marking
  • Medical marking for UDI
  • Automotive and data matrix
  • Oil & Gas
  • Electronics
  • Metalworking 

Aerospace Part Marking

Aerospace part production demands a high degree of accuracy because of the extended exposure to high heat and vibrations, which can lead to part failure. As a result, customized part marking is necessary for the successful completion of parts that meet the strict requirements of the aerospace industry. 

Metal marking machines also reduce waste and increase efficiency in production, as it allows for accurate identification of parts while not causing damage to the part surface. Aerospace part marking provides a unique identifier for each part produced, which can help ensure traceability throughout the entire aerospace product life cycle. Aerospace equipment is costly, which means proactively avoiding defects can make a difference in the profit margin. 

Both dot peen and laser marking can be efficient methods of custom part marking for aerospace production. 

 

Medical Marking for UDI

Unique Device Identification (UDI) is a system of marking medical devices, such as pacemakers and artificial joints. UDI identifies and traces each device throughout all stages of its life cycle. It enables easy identification of specific product versions and lots, helping prevent mix-ups or recall issues in the case of a malfunction.

Part marking is essential for UDI compliance, as it ensures that all medical devices are traceable. Part marking machines for the medical industry can also apply: 

  • Expiration dates
  • Lot codes
  • Batch and serial numbers
  • Other information required by the FDA or other regulatory agencies

Automotive and Data Matrix

The automotive industry relies heavily on part marking to catalog and traces each component throughout the production process and the vehicle’s life span. 

Data matrix codes provide significant information in a small surface area and make it easier to read throughout the component’s useful life. Data matrix is:

  • Essential for providing a unique identifier for each part
  • Used to store expiration date, lot code, batch number, serial number, and other data required by regulatory agencies 
  • Essential to reduce waste in automotive production by ensuring accuracy when marking parts with customized identifiers

 

Oil & Gas

Parts for the oil and gas industry must be marked with special techniques to ensure they’re identifiable both downhole and on the surface. This is critical, as oil and gas parts have a variety of components that will be exposed to high pressures and harsh environmental conditions. Therefore, permanent mark identification is required to ensure traceability and reduce liability in the event of a failure.

Part marking is also essential for safety, as it provides personnel with the information needed to ensure proper operation and maintenance of oil and gas parts. By applying customized part markers, manufacturers can make sure that the right type of parts are used in each application, reducing unnecessary risks and ensuring optimal performance. 

Metal marking machines are also necessary for oil and gas parts to ensure they meet the requirements of their specific industry. These unique part markers can reduce waste in production, as they allow you to ID parts quickly and accurately without manual labor or additional equipment. This helps in reducing errors and improving efficiency.

 

Electronics

In the electronics industry, part marking is essential for traceability and identifying counterfeit parts. By applying unique identifiers to each component, manufacturers can ensure that only genuine parts make it into their products.  

QR codes are increasingly being used to identify electronic products in a number of industries. QR codes are 2D barcodes that can be scanned and read by a smartphone or other device.

In the electronics industry, QR codes can track components throughout the manufacturing process. They’re also used to store serial numbers, batch numbers, and expiration dates.

QR codes are also becoming increasingly popular for tracking electronics in the supply chain, as they allow companies to quickly and accurately identify products throughout their life cycle. This reduces the risk of product mix-ups and mislabeling, while helping to ensure that all products are safe and compliant with industry standards.

 

Metalworking

Custom part marking is an essential process in metalworking, where shops often have numerous orders and projects going on at once. By applying unique identifiers to each part, manufacturers can quickly and accurately identify the components they need for their various projects. This helps reduce waste in production, as it eliminates the possibility of errors and increases run speed. 

Part marking is also essential for metalworking to ensure that end products meet industry standards and specifications.

Part marking systems for metalworking are typically laser- or ink jet-based, as these methods create permanent marks that won’t fade and become unreadable over time. Laser marking has the advantage of being more precise than traditional methods, and is usually the preferred choice when producing parts with tight tolerances.

 

Metal Marking Machines in Your Industry

Custom part marking is essential for the success of any production process, especially in mission-critical industries like aerospace, medical, automotive, oil and gas, electronics, and metalworking. By applying unique identifiers to each component or product being produced, manufacturers can ensure accuracy and traceability throughout their entire life cycle. 

Additionally, customized part markers reduce wasteful errors caused by mislabeling or mix-ups. With the right custom marking system in place, businesses can work more quickly while still taking care to meet industry standards and regulations.

 

More From the Direct Part Marking 101 Series

Metal marking machines are key to a variety of industries. Each use case is unique.

Take a look at other blog posts in our Direct Part Marking 101 series: 

Medical Part Marking Standards Explained

Aerospace Part Marking Considerations

Defense and Military Applications

Graphic_for_Trade_Show_LP_Final-01

EASTEC 2023: Technomark North America is Prepped for Your Questions

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Are you a manufacturing professional looking to stay ahead of the curve? If so, EASTEC 2023 is the event for you! This three-day conference and expo will allow attendees to learn from industry experts, explore new products and technologies, and gain valuable insights into modern manufacturing processes.

Technomark will be in Booth 3157 May 16-18 at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass. If you want to stop by and have parts marked live, registration for the event is open. Remember to register with Technomark’s promotional code: 16253977E. This will make badge creation free for those interested (normally $50).

EASTEC | What to Expect

Attendees will have access to industry-leading manufacturers and suppliers, allowing them to gain valuable insights into new products, processes, and technologies. In addition, EASTEC 2023 will feature interactive workshops, seminars, and panel discussions with industry experts.

The schedule for this year’s event includes a number of speakers:

  • Michael Carroll, VP of Innovation and Transformation at Georgia-Pacific
  • Mark Michalski of Forge
  • Craig Owens, Systems Engineer, Principal, and Corporate SBIR Program Manager at Lockheed Martin
  • Roger Landolt, Senior Software Solution Manager at ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions

There will also be four panel discussions, focused on:

  • How not to fail in your transformation journey
  • Pathway to technology adoption
  • Manufacturing industry and economic outlook
  • Data, trends, and what’s being done

Workshops during the upcoming EASTEC show will highlight the following areas:

  • “GD&T: Why Do we Hate, Love and Need it for Manufacturing Excellence?”
  • “Smart Manufacturing – Why It Matters and How to Achieve It”
  • “Adopting and Optimizing Additive Manufacturing”

Why Attend EASTEC?

EASTEC is a unique and remarkable manufacturing trade show that offers an opportunity to learn, explore and discover the latest advances in technology and manufacturing.

This event provides an excellent platform for attendees to learn from top leaders in their respective fields and network with others in the manufacturing community.

By attending EASTEC 2023, you will join thousands of other professionals in the manufacturing industry who are looking to stay ahead of the curve. With networking opportunities and the latest technological advancements, there’s something for everyone.

4 Things to Do in Springfield

Not all of your time will be spent at the exhibits and workshops during EASTEC 2023. Once you have grabbed a bite to eat, consider one of these options for entertainment:

1. Visit the Springfield Museums to learn more about the history of Springfield and its diverse culture. Storrowton Village Museum, for example, offers insight into early 19th-century life.
2. Enjoy a scenic ride on the Springfield trolley along this vibrant city’s rivers, valleys, and historical sites. Visitors can explore numerous historical sites throughout the city that reflect this varied past, from the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, which preserves one of America’s most important military landmarks, to Duryea Way honoring James Duryea, who made significant contributions to automobile production during his lifetime.
3. Explore the Forest Park Zoo of Springfield and its many exotic animals. Located on the banks of the Connecticut River, this vibrant and educational zoo offers visitors an up-close look at some of nature’s most exotic creatures. From majestic tigers to tiny tree frogs, there are plenty of animals to observe and learn about in this unique setting. In addition to its impressive animal collection, the zoo also features interactive exhibits allowing visitors to get closer to their favorite creatures.
4. Visit the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, located in Springfield. The museum offers information on more than 400 inductees and over 40,000 sq. ft. of basketball history – drawing more than 200,000 visitors each year.

The Countdown is On

When it comes to a CNC trade show, the right ones provide access to information on new technology and networking opportunities to connect with new suppliers. EASTEC 2023 provides these resources and more. Don’t forget to register! Technomark staff will be waiting at Booth 3157.

Can’t Make it to EASTEC?

Our experienced staff is available to discuss all things part marking. If you want to learn about laser marking, consider reading through this resource:

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DM Techonmark Code

Understanding the Differences Between Data Matrix vs QR Codes:

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If you’ve ever opened a new electronic device, tool, or home appliance, chances are you’ve seen a Data Matrix code.

While you may have thought it was a QR code, Data Matrix codes are an essential part of most manufacturing processes and act as an efficient means for component traceability. Data Matrix codes are also the only 2D barcode to have GS1 approval for regulated healthcare items. 

QR codes on the other hand are larger and contain more data, such as website URLs, and are capable of encoding information not just in numeric and alphanumeric form, but also in Kanji and other multi-byte character sets. 

No matter what industry, when it comes to industrial traceability for manufacturers, choosing the right type of code can leave a production run riddled with misinformation and the chance of getting lost. 

Let’s break down the differences and similarities between QR and Data Matrix codes and why the latter is the preferred choice of the majority of manufacturers.  

 

Direct Part Marking | QR vs Data Matrix Codes

While both QR and Data Matrix codes are in the public domain and can be used royalty free, Data Matrix codes have become the standard for anti-counterfeit measures, part identification, and internal tracking because they feature advanced error-correcting techniques that are more robust than QR codes. 

This presents a unique benefit for manufacturers that need to ensure their products can be identified if part of the mark gets damaged or impeded. 

Particularly necessary for complex and high stakes industries such as medical, aerospace, and defense, where hundreds to thousands of components are needed in order to assemble a finished product, Data Matrix codes can be read even if up to 50% of the mark gets damaged. 

QR codes on the other hand have steadily been adopted in consumer-facing applications. These codes can be found everywhere from business cards to product packaging, containing links to websites, resumes, premium offers, and even restaurant menus. 

QR codes have a lower level error-correcting built in, and can be rendered useless with even slight ware and tare. Just 30% of a QR code needs to be damaged before it becomes unreadable. 

While these codes are perfect for consumer-forward use, marking a component or part with a QR code presents a real danger for misidentification pending the mark gets damaged. 

 

Data Matrix vs QR Codes | Uses Cases and Applications

Data Matrix

QR code

  • Supply chain traceability
  • Anti-counterfeiting through serialization
  • Part identification
  • Additional product information
  • Usage instructions 
  • Social sharing
  • Auto-linking for spare ordering and registration
  • Promotions, contests, and gamification


Specifications of Data Matrix vs QR Codes

While Data Matrix codes are typically reserved for industrial use cases, both types of marks can play a role in the manufacturing industry.

Since both DataMatrix and QR codes are GS1 approved, they can carry any GS1 ID keys including: 

ID Key

Used to IdentifyExample

Global Trade Item Number (GTIN)

Products and servicesCan of soup, chocolate bar, music album

Global Location Number (GLN)

Parties and locations

Companies, warehouses, factories, stores

Global Returnable Asset Identifier (GRAI)Returnable assets

Pallet cases, crates, totes

Global Individual Asset Identifier (GIAI)

AssetsMedical, manufacturing, transport and IT equipment
Global Service Relation Number (GSRN)Service provider
and recipient relationships		Loyalty scheme members, doctors at a hospital, library members
Component/Part Identifier (CPID)Components and parts

Automobile parts

Global Model Number (GMN)Product model

Medical devices

 

Beyond GS1, specifications and requirements for each code are presented by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). For more about how these codes work themselves, and how to create them, you can check out the relevant ISO standard for more detail.

Requirements for Data Matrix codes are specified under the ISO/IEC 16022 international standard; while requirements for QR codes are specified under the ISO/IEC 18004 international standard.

 

Direct Part Marking | Best Practices and Proven Methods 

Understanding the differences between QR codes and Data Matrix codes, and choosing which is best for your application can get overwhelming.  That’s why its important to consult a trusted advisor and partner. 

Technomark has been operating and supplying expertise with industrial marking equipment since 2000. Since 2018, Technomark North America is the only established OEM of dot peen and laser marking systems — the primary methods for direct part marking — with a headquarters in the USA. 

Technomark has been at the forefront of industrial marking innovation, developing machines for seamless integration in manufacturing processes. 

Our goal is to help our customers:

  • Increase machine uptime
  • Decrease total cost of ownership
  • Make part marking and identification simple and cost-effective
  • Bring new ideas to the table to increase efficiency

Your relationship with Technomark North America shouldn’t be limited to a strict supplier-to-customer interaction. We value communication above all else, which is why our team is dedicated to finding ways to solve your traceability challenges through a consultative process.  

 

Interested in learning more about Direct Part Marking using Laser Technology? Check out our free ebook below: 

Laser Marking Downloadable Form

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Datamatrix laser marking automotive part

Direct Part Marking Identification 101: Deconstructing Data Matrix Codes

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Commerce has come a long way from the bartering system. When currency became the acceptable medium of exchange, it only made sense that a better system of marking products was needed. 

The first barcode was created in 1952, but they weren’t put into use in commerce and the transaction process until 1974, when a pack of Wrigley’s gum was scanned in a supermarket in the state of Ohio. 

Barcodes have become widely used and have been upgraded and improved in an ongoing process. From the days when a barcode took up a significant amount of the packaging and contained limited information to today’s Data Matrix codes that are significantly smaller and can hold more data, the barcode development process has been fast and focused on efficiency. 

Here we will focus on Data Matrix codes, their importance, their history, and an in-depth look at:

  1. How they’re generated
  2. How they differ from other marking processes
  3. What industry these are most common in and on which type of materials and parts are they commonly found 

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Dot Peen Marking Basics

What Is Dot Peen Marking?

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Dot Peen Marking Basics

Ask anyone inside the industrial manufacturing industry – part-marking is crucial to component traceability when working with large quantities. And while several different types of part-marking exist, Dot Peen marking technology has been a preferred solution for many years. 

At a high level, Dot Peen marking machines use either electromagnetic or pneumatic force to rapidly oscillate a stylus, in turn indenting the marks onto the surface of the part. 

One of the advantages of Dot Peen is that it’s very flexible and can be used in either manual or fully automated production lines. A lot of the applications Dot Peen serves are manual applications, however, with modular Dot Peen systems, you can start with a portable system and later convert it to an in-line system for integration with fully automated production lines.

 

The Basics of Dot Peen Marking

If you took apart a Dot Peen machine, one of the most important components you would find is a carbide or diamond-tip stylus. 

The Dot peen process is considered a “low-stress” marking method because the mark is generated via material displacement rather than material removal.  The carbide stylus strikes the material surface to produce the mark via a series of cold-formed stamped dots. Compared to Laser Marking Systems, Dot Peen does not induce thermal shock to the part surface since the material is cold-stamped rather than super-heated to produce the mark.  

Dot Peen systems are commonly used by manufacturers in the aerospace and oil & gas industries where low-stress marking is required, such as tubular and flow control products that are exposed to extreme pressure differential in the oilfield. 

Dot Peen marking is viable for material hardness up to 63 HRC. Typically, when a part hardness is greater than 63 HRC, laser marking systems are recommended. 

All of Technomark’s Dot Peen machines rely on an electromagnetic solenoid to actuate the marking stylus. Dots are plotted in an X/Y plane via electronic control for precise placement of the Dot pattern. Using electromagnetic force versus pneumatic also provides a greater level of control of both the depth of the mark as well as the ability to mark contoured or complex surface.

Dot Peen Marking | Component Traceability In Action 

Dot Peen marking machines are utilized in almost every industrial-goods manufacturing operation, including: 

  • Automotive
  • Oil and Gas (pipes, fittings valves, other)
  • Aerospace
  • Defense
  • Metalworking (general purpose)

Dot Peen Marking 101

While these machines can run in-line and handle large quantities in an automated production environment, most are operated manually using a battery pack to go mobile. 

The best Dot Peen marking machines utilize a fully electric design and that doesn’t require compressed air to operate.  All Technomark Dot Peen marking machines feature an Intelligent Driving Impact (IDI) function that allows for marking on many different materials and finishes. The IDI function automatically adjusts and levels the stylus to the workpiece. Whether the part has a curved, wavy, or complex geometry, the stylus will follow the contour of the marking surface while maintaining a constant depth of high-quality marking throughout. 

When structural integrity is crucial, Dot Peen marking provides a low-stress marking solution that removes no material during the part marking process.

Why Choose Dot Peen Marking

One of the biggest benefits of a Dot Peen Marking Machine is its ability to efficiently produce marks compared to other marking systems. Other benefits of Dot Peen machines include: 

  1. Portability: battery-operated systems are ergonomic and perfect for smaller-scale operations or marking of large, heavy parts that cannot be transported to a fixed location for marking
  2. Versatility: state-of-the-art Dot Peen marking systems are modular and can start with a portable or manual marking system that can later be adapted to a fully automated production line
  3. Ease of use: Dot Peen machines are easy to program and do not require any advanced computing knowledge or technical training. 
  4. Permanency: Dot Peen marking process yields a permanent, indelible mark that can withstand harsh operating environments
  5. Economical: Compared to other marking systems, Dot Peen systems are typically less than $10,000.

Integrating a dot peen marking machine into your production line will improve the productivity and quality of the part-marking process.  

New and exciting dot peen innovations are coming this fall. Be on the lookout for machines that feature: 

  • Wireless connectivity between marking head and control (Network-able devices that are able to communicate to other devices through wireless communications)
  • On-board diagnostic tools to help the operator know when it’s time for scheduled maintenance — protecting your investment. 

If you have questions regarding Dot Peen machines or any part marking machines, contact us today. At Technomark North America, we have the experience to help you get the best solutions for your industrial marking needs.

(Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published in September 2021 and was updated in October 2022.)

Laser Marking for Manufacturing 101

Laser Marking Systems for Manufacturing: Abilities, Applications & More

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Laser Marked Component

What do DVD players, checkout lines at the grocery store, and industrial marking machines all have in common? Lasers.

But not all lasers are the same. 

L.A.S.E.R. stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. In simpler terms, it’s a highly concentrated beam of light. Lasers consist of a: 

  • Gain medium: a material that works in tandem with electrical currents to stimulate the photons of light as it passes through
  • Energy supply: Energy supply for lasers usually comes in the form of electrical currents. These currents are “pumped” through the grain medium to stimulate the atom as light passes through. The pumping of electrical currents causes the light to bounce faster through the grain medium. 
  • A material to provide optical feedback: The materials chosen for optical feedback have one primary job: steering. the way the beam of light is directed  

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non organic part marking

Marking Machines: Are They The Best Method For Your Materials?

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Whereas a precision machinist might select a material specification based on the intended use of the end product, technology selection for part marking works the other way around: 

The material type determines the marking machine, if needed; the marking method doesn’t determine the material type. 

We’ll break down which part marking methods work best with various material types so you can decide which industrial traceability solution is best for you. 

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part marking considerations

10 Industrial Part Marking Considerations

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Industrial part marking

Every manufacturing process has a unique set of challenges to face. Thanks to increased complexity and a lack of standardization, the part marking process is no exception.

Previously, we’ve discussed how material specification should be the first consideration when selecting the best permanent marking method for your parts. 

The next step is to understand how the marking system will fit into your production process. Let’s look at 10 process considerations that will help you narrow down options when selecting a direct part marking method for your project:

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