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Choosing the Right Material: A Decision-Maker’s Guide to Laser Marking Machines

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Laser marking machines use less energy to produce more durable markings. This is important to various industries where the mark must be readable despite exposure to extreme weather or other environmental influences. Which type of laser you need is dependent on some of the characteristics each laser is known for. To start, let’s dive into the differences between fiber lasers and CO2 lasers.

Fiber lasers stand out as powerful, solid-state laser sources designed with precision for cutting and welding tasks. At their core, they harness doped optical fibers to amplify light, starting with a seed laser beam that intensifies as it travels through an optical fiber filled with special amplifying material. This process, further refined by a series of optical mirrors, culminates in a beam of significantly higher power than its original input.

What sets fiber lasers apart from traditional CO2 lasers are their noteworthy advantages, which include enhanced precision, extended lifespans, reduced maintenance costs, and greater energy efficiency. These benefits make fiber lasers a remarkably reliable and efficient option, providing consistent, permanent marks swiftly and with minimal waste or downtime. As a result, fiber lasers have earned their place as a preferred technology across various industrial applications, offering a friendly and professional solution that meets the high standards of today’s manufacturing and processing industries.

CO2 lasers utilize carbon dioxide gas to produce a beam of infrared light, renowned for its high accuracy and ability to create detailed designs with complex shapes.

This technology enables faster cutting speeds and the capability to engrave intricate patterns on a variety of materials, making it suitable for precision applications that demand quick turnaround times. Its broad beam also allows for efficient coverage of large areas, enhancing productivity. Notably cost-effective and versatile, CO2 lasers boast higher power outputs, cutting through tough materials like steel with ease. Their application spans numerous industries, including woodworking where they’re used for precise engraving and cutting, metal fabrication, and even in medical fields, demonstrating their wide-ranging utility and effectiveness.

Materials Compatible with Laser Marking

Laser marking technology offers a versatile and efficient means of engraving and marking numerous materials, each with its unique characteristics and suitability for different applications.

From the natural beauty of wood, which provides a classic, warm finish, to the durability and precision required for metals like stainless steel and aluminum, laser marking systems cater to a broad spectrum of materials. Plastics, with their vast diversity in composition, also present a canvas for laser marking, allowing for both clear and contrasted markings.

The choice of material not only influences the aesthetic outcome but also dictates the type of laser system required—be it CO2, fiber, or another laser technology—to achieve optimal results. Understanding the properties of these materials is crucial for selecting the right laser marking system and ensuring high-quality, lasting marks.

Common materials marked using laser marking systems:

Metals: Stainless steel, Steel, Carbide, Titanium, Aluminum, Gold
Plastics: ABS, Polycarbonate, Polyamide
Other materials: Wood, Glass, Ceramic

Factors to Consider When Choosing Material for Laser Marking

Selecting the appropriate laser marking system necessitates compatibility with the materials intended for marking or engraving. Different materials such as stone, glass, or metal demand varied types of lasers and power levels. For instance, CO2 lasers excel in engraving organic materials (like wood or glass), plastics, and certain metals, but they might struggle with stainless steel due to its high reflectivity.

Conversely, fiber lasers, with their higher power output, are better suited for marking metals like aluminum, brass, and titanium. Hence, determining the material to be marked or engraved is crucial before settling on a laser marking machine.

When choosing the appropriate laser marking machine, the following need to be taken into consideration:
– Material properties: Each material that can be marked has different absorption rates, heat resistance levels, and distinguishing characteristics. All of these must be weighed when choosing the right marking machines to work with for traceability purposes.
– Desired outcome: Factors like the marking quality, depth, and durability also make a big difference when evaluating what marking machine will fit best with your production needs.
– Environmental considerations: These marks are meant to last throughout the lifespan of the product. However, for parts that are used in space, for example, the rate of exposure to elements and temperature changes dictate which marking method would be preferable. (And different parts used in aerospace production are marked differently. Check out our blog Laser Marking vs Dot Peen Marking Machines: Best Use Case by Industry for more info on that.)
– Regulatory and safety standards: The regulations for part durability and traceability are different for the various industries that rely on part marking for different reasons. Therefore, the part marking must meet various standards while supplying reliability in the long term.

Looking for more information on laser marking? Check out our resource library:
Laser Etching vs. Engraving: What to Know
Industrial Laser Marking Applications: 5 to Know
The Ins & Outs of Industrial Laser Marking Machines
6 Tips for Choosing the Best Laser Marking System for Your Business Needs

Tips for Optimizing Material Choice and Laser Marking Process

When it comes to material preparation and handling, it is important to have an idea of what that process looks like for your product and how laser marking machines can be used most efficiently.

The quality of the final mark can also depend on the condition of the material being marked. Ensure that the surface is clean and free from oils, dust, or any other contaminants before marking. For materials with varying surface qualities or coatings, it might be necessary to do some test runs to determine the optimal laser settings for consistent results. Proper material preparation can significantly impact the consistency and quality of the laser markings.

Different materials and marking depths require different laser parameters such as power, speed, frequency, and focus. Regularly calibrating your machine and doing test runs on sample materials allows you to fine-tune these settings for each specific task.

Keeping a log of the optimal settings for various materials and applications can help you quickly achieve consistent results without the need for extensive trial and error. Testing on the material to be marked and including tests on any prototypes is the best way to move forward efficiently.

Maintaining consistent marking quality with a laser marking machine is essential for ensuring high standards across all your projects. Here are three key tips to achieve this:

Create a regular maintenance schedule: Like any precision instrument, a laser marking machine requires regular maintenance and cleaning to perform at its best. This involves cleaning the lenses and mirrors to prevent any build-up of debris that could distort the laser beam. Also, ensure that all moving parts are well-lubricated and that the machine is checked periodically for any signs of wear or damage. Keeping the machine clean and well-maintained will help in achieving consistent marking quality.
Use high-quality consumables and components: The quality of the consumables, such as lenses, mirrors, and the laser source itself, plays a crucial role in the consistency and quality of the markings produced. Investing in high-quality consumables and components can make a significant difference. Over time, components can degrade, affecting the laser’s performance. Regularly inspecting and, when necessary, replacing these parts with quality replacements ensures that the laser operates at peak efficiency, producing consistent, high-quality marks. This approach not only maintains marking quality but also extends the overall lifespan of your laser marking machine.

Technomark offers free tests on your parts to ensure laser marking is the right solution. We can also provide training to help users succeed in their advanced marking settings.

Marking Machines and Today’s Production Challenges

Laser marking machines provide efficiency and reduced energy consumption while marking materials that don’t get the same durability of marks from other marking methods. For that reason, it is important to consider all factors when determining the right marking machine for the material you are marking. Remember to weigh all the factors and give the testing period a lot of attention to make sure your ROI is as expected when production begins in earnest. 

Still wondering about laser marking? Take this resource with you: 

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6 Tips for Choosing the Best Laser Marking System for Your Business Needs

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Laser marking systems provide reliability and long-term marking solutions for commercial and industrial applications, which resolves concerns about component tracking for many industries where the product is exposed to extreme heat or other conditions that cause wear and tear.

Choosing the best laser marking system for your production line means weighing the various factors that determine the most effective yet least time-consuming process to meet deadlines.

We compiled a list of six actionable tips to choose the most suitable laser marking system:

  1. Understand your marking needs
  2. Consider the type of laser technology
  3. Evaluate system performance and speed
  4. Assess software compatibility and ease of use
  5. Consider maintenance and durability
  6. Compare costs and return on investment

1. Understand Your Marking Needs

The use of laser marking systems is not the only choice to be made. Within the laser marking industry, various methods have been proven effective for product marking. The process to use depends on a variety of factors. Three marking methods that utilize lasers include:

  • Engraving: With laser engraving, marks are made on the surface of an object with high heat that vaporizes the material into dust. This is done quickly and with precision, allowing for unmatched durability and readability, along with better turnaround times on orders that involve a large number of parts.
  • Annealing: This process changes the color of the metal but does not remove any materials. This is because oxygen is diffused beneath the surface of the metal during a slow heating process. This process is only useful for metals like steel, stainless steel, and titanium.
  • Etching: In this process, heated surfaces are allowed to expand, creating permanent marks in a faster and more efficient manner. This process provides a contrast that remains readable after post-treatments.

Different marking applications are ideal for different material types. For example, certain metals can be marked using the annealing process (as noted above). Meanwhile, etching or engraving can be useful for metals, plastics, and some other materials – such as wood. However, the process used makes a difference in the marking quality, depth, and the speed at which the marking process is completed.

2. Consider the Type of Laser Technology

Several types of lasers are used in laser marking systems:
Fiber lasers use a shorter wavelength than the CO2 laser and are capable of marking non-metallic surfaces. This process is commonly used for plastics and metal, as well as rubber.

CO2 lasers can be used to mark wood, plastic, cardboard, as well as metal. This type of laser uses CO2 gas to create an infrared laser beam. This beam cuts the mark into the material.

UV lasers have an adjustable wavelength and can be used on sensitive materials. This process is also possible to complete cold marking – which protects the product from heat degradation but still provides a readable, long-lasting mark.

3. Evaluate System Performance and Speed

Both marking speed and system performance impact overall productivity. Marking speed can lead to a faster completion rate for a larger order, as noted previously. Meanwhile, system performance can mean consistent production rates over time versus a more chaotic rate of production due to maintenance-related downtime.

4. Assess Software Compatibility and Ease of Use

Laser software is commonly hard to understand and to use because of the settings (except for an expert). User-friendly software offers adjustments that can be completed quickly and with minimal clicks. A secure connection via WiFi means the laser marking system can be utilized anywhere the WiFi reaches across the facility – or outside if necessary.

This allows for marking in real-time and allows for maintenance to be adjusted through the software as well.

5. Consider Maintenance and Durability

While reliable systems might come with a higher initial cost, they often lead to significant savings over time. Reduced downtime, fewer repairs, and longer intervals between major maintenance can drastically lower the total cost of ownership. Also, there are no consumables for laser marking (which is a durability and environment advantage).

Reliability also ties into safety. Systems that are less prone to malfunction reduce the risk of accidents in the workplace, protecting both your employees and your equipment.

Systems designed with ease of maintenance in mind often have modular components that can be easily replaced or serviced. Easy maintenance also means that you can potentially handle many issues in-house without needing to call in expensive external service technicians every time something needs tweaking.

6. Compare Costs and Return on Investment (ROI)

Choosing the right industrial laser marking system is a significant decision that can affect your operation’s efficiency, safety, and bottom line.

When evaluating options, consider not just the purchase price but also the costs associated with maintenance, repairs, and potential downtime. A more expensive system might be more cost-effective in the long run if it’s more reliable and easier to maintain.

These can then be weighed against the potential for increased ROI, which can make the final decision easier to reach. Calculating ROI for laser marking machines takes all of the following into consideration:

  • Improved efficiency
  • Productivity rates
  • Product quality

Laser Marking Systems: Opting for Efficiency

Technology evolves, and so do the needs of your business. A system that is easy to maintain is generally more adaptable to upgrades and changes. This adaptability ensures that your investment remains valuable and relevant, even as new technologies emerge.

A reliable system delivers consistent quality in markings, which is critical for traceability, brand identity, and meeting industry standards. This consistency helps in maintaining product quality throughout the production cycle, reducing the risk of errors or defects. Finding that system means evaluating the above points and determining the most efficient system for your unique production needs.

Still looking for more information on industrial laser markers?

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Choose for Your Application: The Right Marking System in Industrial Facilities

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Part marking systems are crucial across various industries for tracking, identification, quality control, and regulatory compliance. Two popular methods for part marking are dot peen marking and laser marking. Each has its advantages, disadvantages, and typical applications based on factors such as material compatibility, precision, cost, and durability of the mark. Here’s a detailed discussion and comparison:

Dot Peen Marking

Dot peen marking involves a pneumatically or electromechanically driven pin that rapidly indents the material surface with dots to create numbers, letters, logos, or 2D Data Matrix codes. The resulting mark is a series of closely spaced dots forming lines or shapes.

This type of marking is widely used in automotive, metalworking, and aerospace for marking components where the durability of the mark is critical. This can range from the process of adding serial numbers on engine parts to VIN numbers and tool identification.

Dot peen is often preferred for harder materials and where surface deformation is not a concern, whereas laser marking offers broader material compatibility and is better for delicate or heat-sensitive materials.

Advantages of dot peen marking include:

  • The marks are deeply embedded into the material, making them highly durable and resistant to wear over time, even in harsh environments.
  • Generally less expensive than laser marking systems, both in initial investment and maintenance costs.
  • Effective on a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and harder materials.

Disadvantages of utilizing dot peen marking include:

  • Typically slower than laser marking due to the mechanical process of indenting each dot.
  • The mechanical impact may deform delicate parts or surfaces.
  • While precise, it may not achieve the fine detail possible with laser systems, especially on very small or complex designs.

Laser Marking

Laser marking uses a high-intensity light beam to slightly alter or ablate the surface material, creating high-contrast marks without contacting the material.

Techniques include engraving, annealing, etching, and foaming, depending on the material and desired effect.

Laser marking wins in precision and detail, making it preferable for industries requiring intricate designs or small text. It is considered ideal for barcodes, UID codes, QR codes, and detailed logos.

 

 

Laser marking is commonly used in:

  • Electronics
  • Medical devices
  • Aerospace
  • Jewelry
  • Applications where precision, minimal part damage, and aesthetic quality of the mark are paramount.

Three main advantages of laser marking are as follows:

  • Capable of producing highly detailed, precise marks with excellent resolution. Suitable for small text, complex logos, and even photographic images.
  • Can mark a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and even sensitive materials without damaging them.
  • Fast marking process due to the non-contact nature of the laser, which can move quickly over the target surface.
    Easily programmable for variable data (e.g., serial numbers), integration into production lines, and minimal maintenance.

Meanwhile, some disadvantages of this marking system include:

  • Higher initial investment and operating costs compared to dot peen marking
  • Safety precautions necessary due to the use of high-powered lasers
  • Certain materials may not mark well or require specific laser types (e.g., fiber, CO2, UV) to achieve the desired contrast or effect.

Note: The size of the parts can also be a factor, as even huge parts can easily be marked with a handheld dot peen marking system, while lasers are not developed to the point they can be utilized for large parts.

Comparing Dot Peen and Laser Marking

Laser marking offers unparalleled precision and flexibility for a wide range of materials and applications, while dot peen marking provides a cost-effective, durable solution for simpler marking tasks.

The choice between dot peen and laser marking ultimately depends on the specific requirements of the application, including:

  • The type of material
  • The desired mark quality and durability
  • Production speed
  • Budget constraints

Marking System Choices | Next Steps

Laser marking and dot peen marking are both widely used in industrial applications for the permanent marking of parts and products, but they differ significantly in their mechanisms and outcomes.

Laser marking utilizes a high-intensity light beam to etch or mark the surface of a material, allowing for precise, high-resolution marks including barcodes, QR codes, and intricate graphics, while dot peen marking involves a pneumatically or electromechanically driven pin that physically impacts the surface to create dots forming numbers, letters, or simple logos. Both are useful in any number of industries – depending the needs and expectations of the product line in question.

Investigate the Options, Starting with the Laser Marking System

Our Part Marking page offers a detailed look at the types of lasers and benefits of each, as well as the benefits of dot peen marking as an alternative. The guide also shares info on the type of mark needed and the materials you are marking during production. Take a look:

The abstract scene of fiber laser cutting machine cutting the sheet metal plate and the G-code data background.

Shining a Light on Laser Precision: Fiber Lasers vs. CO2 Lasers

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In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, precision is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Laser marking technology, heralded for its unparalleled accuracy and versatility, has revolutionized industries from aerospace to consumer electronics. 

As with any technological innovation, there are choices to navigate. Among the most debated is the match-up between Fiber Lasers and CO2 Lasers. Both come with their own set of advantages, applications, and intricacies. 

 

Fiber Lasers: The Contender

Fiber lasers are high-powered, solid-state laser sources that produce focused beams of light for cutting and welding applications. These lasers are constructed from doped optical fibers as the gain medium. The light is generated by pumping a seed laser beam through an optical fiber with amplifying material inside, which then passes through a series of optical mirrors before emerging at the other end at a much higher power than when it was inputted. 

Fiber lasers provide a number of advantages over traditional CO2 lasers, such as:

  • Superior precision
  • Longer lifecycles 
  • Lower maintenance costs
  • More energy efficiency. 

With their ability to deliver consistent results at fast speeds with minimal waste and downtime, fiber lasers have become the technology of choice for many industrial applications.

Fiber lasers also offer greater efficiency than other laser technologies due to their wavelength-specific operation and ability to generate high power in a short amount of time. They are relatively low maintenance compared to other laser systems, making them an economical choice for many applications.

The versatility of fiber lasers makes them ideal for many different applications such as cutting thin metal sheets in automotive parts manufacturing or welding complex shapes in medical devices. They can also be used for marking materials including plastics and metals.

Furthermore, fiber lasers are becoming increasingly popular as they can be used with a wide range of materials and offer very fast processing speeds. This makes them an ideal solution for industries such as automotive, medical device manufacturing, and electronics. Fiber lasers are also becoming increasingly used in the printing industry for fine engraving and marking applications.

 

Fiber Laser Applications in the Automotive Industry

Fiber laser applications span multiple industries due to their high energy efficiency and precision. In the automotive industry, fiber lasers are used to mark parts with serial numbers, ensuring traceability throughout the part’s life cycle.  

 

CO2 Lasers: The Challenger

CO2 lasers are a type of laser that uses carbon dioxide gas to generate a beam of light with a wavelength in the infrared range. The beam emitted from a CO2 laser has a high level of accuracy and can be used to produce detailed designs with complex shapes. It can also be used to cut and engrave intricate patterns on many different types of materials.

The power of the beam also allows for faster cutting speeds than those achievable with other technologies, making it ideal for precision applications that require quick turnaround times. Because the beam is relatively broad, it is easier to cover larger areas at a speed that would otherwise be impossible with conventional methods.

CO2 lasers are well known for their relatively low cost and versatility. They can also have higher power outputs than other types of lasers while still being able to cut through tougher materials like steel. CO2 lasers have been used in a variety of industries, from woodworking to metal fabrication and even medical fields. In the woodworking field, CO2 lasers are often used for engraving and cutting. For example, they can be used to engrave intricate designs on furniture or to cut out pieces of wood with precise measurements.

 

Real-world examples of CO2 laser applications

CO2 lasers are used to cut and engrave a wide range of materials, including wood, plastics, leather, glass, paper, and metals. Additionally, CO2 lasers can be used to cut or mill three-dimensional shapes from hard materials such as steel and aluminum.

In the automotive industry, CO2 lasers are used for cutting sheet metal with high precision and accuracy. For example, many car body parts like doors and engine covers are now produced using CO2 laser-cutting machines. In addition to precision cutting of metal sheets, CO2 lasers can also weld thin sheets together to form more complex structures.

Moreover, CO2 lasers are becoming increasingly popular in medical treatments such as:

  • Skin resurfacing
  • Hair removal
  • Surgery.

They are more precise than traditional methods because their beams can target certain areas without damaging surrounding tissue.

 

Fiber Lasers & CO2 Lasers: Head-to-Head

While both types of laser technology offer similar power and precision, the efficiency of fiber laser machines is far superior. Fiber lasers can produce the same output as a CO2 laser with exponentially lower energy consumption and heat production. 

Fiber lasers use up to 50% less electricity than their CO2 counterparts. Additionally, fiber lasers require much less maintenance, meaning fewer technical personnel and resources are needed for upkeep. This makes them ideal for industrial production environments where cost-effectiveness is a priority.

Fiber lasers offer a higher level of precision than CO2 lasers, making them more suitable for applications such as fine cutting in medical devices or intricate patterns on jewelry. The combination of high precision and low energy usage makes fiber lasers the preferred option for many industries. 

In addition to their precise nature, fiber lasers also allow for faster cut speeds than CO2 lasers. This means that when it comes to completing large-scale projects quickly and accurately, fiber lasers are often the way to go.

 

Fiber Lasers vs. CO2 Lasers: The Bottom Line

CO2 lasers often produce higher power outputs than fiber lasers, making them ideal for applications that require cutting through hard materials such as metals. Fiber lasers typically are faster and are more energy efficient than CO2 lasers, making them ideal for precision machining and engraving.

When selecting the right laser for your needs, it is important to consider the output power requirements of the project, cost considerations, maintenance requirements, and any industry-specific considerations. It is also beneficial to consult with experienced experts to determine the best choice based on the specific application.

 

Technomark Knows Lasers: How to Learn More

Laser marking can be the most efficient method for part marking and traceability. If you’re looking for further details, consider downloading this resource: 

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The Ins & Outs of Industrial Laser Marking Machines

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Laser marking is a versatile process that uses laser technology to create permanent marks on materials such as plastics, metals, and other surfaces. The process works by focusing energy and heat from the laser beam onto a given material, which causes chemical changes in the material’s surface layer. This creates impressions that are highly visible and oftentimes indelible.

A few of the factors that make up this process include:
1. Laser Type: Different types of lasers are used for different types of marking applications. Generally speaking, CO2 lasers can be used for engraving and polymers while fiber lasers are ideal for marking metals.

2. Material: Different materials may require different laser parameters or even completely different types of lasers to achieve desired results. It’s important to consider the material’s properties before selecting a laser type.

3. Quality Requirements: The quality requirements of the applied mark determine which parameters must be considered during laser processing to ensure accuracy and precision. Common laser parameters include:

  • Pulse rate
  • Line width
  • Speed
  • Power density
  • Dwell time (the amount of time the laser is applied to a single spot)

4. Equipment Used: Depending on your application needs there are many different kinds of industrial laser marking machines available on the market today – each with their own advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when making selection decisions.

Laser marking offers many advantages over traditional marking methods such as stamping, printing, and engraving. Laser marking is fast, accurate, and permanent. It can also be used to mark a variety of materials without the need for additional setup or alteration. The laser beam never touches the material being marked, making it possible to achieve high-precision marks with no significant post-processing required.

These features make laser marking ideal for precision parts and items that require both high accuracy and longevity in their markings.

For information on laser marking types, check out our blog:
Laser Marking Source | Laser Types & Selection Considerations – TechnoMark

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Machine

There are several factors related to the product line and marking requirements that must be considered when choosing a laser marking machine. Here we will dig a little deeper into some of those factors, including:
1. Marking requirements and specifications
2. Material compatibility
3. Marking speed and throughput
4. Maintenance and operational costs
5. Integration with existing production line
6. Safety considerations

1.  Marking Requirements and Specifications

The marking requirements are important to consider when choosing among the options for high accuracy laser systems. The process should begin with an understanding of the specific needs of the product being marked—including size, shape, material, and desired end result. For example, if a product requires detailed engraving that is outside of the capabilities of some machines, then a different option may need to be chosen. Additionally, depending on the material being marked or engraved upon, different laser types may be more suitable than others in terms of speed and quality.
It’s also important to consider how frequently the machine will be used and how many products it needs to mark per hour or day.

This will determine not only which type of laser marking system is most suitable but also whether faster systems require higher maintenance costs. Keeping these factors in mind can help ensure that the right machine is chosen for the job.

2. Material Compatibility

The right laser marking system should be compatible with the materials that need to be marked or engraved. Laser engraving on stone, glass or metal will require different laser types and power. For example, a CO2 laser is suitable for engraving woods, plastics, and some metals but might not be able to mark stainless steel perfectly due to its higher reflectivity.

On the other hand, fiber lasers are more suitable for metals such as aluminum, brass and titanium due to their higher power output. Therefore, it’s important to consider which material needs to be marked or engraved before choosing a laser marking machine.

3. Marking Speed and Throughput

Faster laser machines can process more work in less time, allowing businesses to realize faster cycle times and higher throughput.

Moreover, higher throughput can also enable businesses to take on bigger jobs that require more items to be marked or engraved in shorter amounts of time. For example, if a business needs to engrave 1000 parts per day, it will need a laser marking machine with high speed and throughput in order to meet its daily production requirements.

4. Maintenance and Operational Costs

In addition to the other considerations when choosing a laser marking machine, businesses should also be aware of the associated maintenance and operational costs. Regular maintenance is key for keeping these machines in optimal condition, as well as ensuring safety during use.

Operational costs will vary depending on the type of material that is being marked or engraved, such as energy consumption levels and safety requirements that must be met. In some cases, the cost of consumables like lasers may also add up over time. To ensure that businesses get the most out of their investment, they should factor in all long-term operational costs when selecting a laser marking machine.

5. Integration with Existing Product Line

When integrating a laser marking machine into existing product lines, there are several factors that must be taken into consideration. The first consideration is whether a new machine is compatible with any existing product lines, and the potential for physical compatibility and system integration should be assessed beforehand. Next, the safety of any operators or users must be taken into account to ensure they can use the machine safely.

The laser marking machine should also be equipped with any necessary features for interacting with other production processes or products in order to guarantee seamless integration. It is also essential to think about the cost-effectiveness of installing such a machine and consider how it will fit within current budgets and operational costs.

6. Safety Considerations

Safety is an incredibly important factor when it comes to the implementation of laser marking machines. Not only should any potential machine be capable of providing safe conditions for operators, but it should also have advanced features such as motion sensors and emergency stop buttons in order to quickly respond in cases of unexpected events.

All machinery must conform to necessary safety standards and regulations both from the local legislation and from any international or industry-specific standards. Manufacturers must also provide extensive safety information about their products, including a detailed user guide that can help users understand how to safely operate the machine.

Applications of Industrial Laser Marking Machines

Industrial laser marking machines are used to mark metal parts with information such as serial numbers or expiration dates. Permanent laser marking helps these industries maintain their standards of reliability while providing a cost-effective solution.

In addition to the technical requirements of accuracy and longevity, lasers can also be used for more decorative applications such as engraving images or logos. Industrial laser machinery is increasingly becoming an important part of manufacturing processes in these high-tech industries due to its versatility, cost efficiency, and ability to create permanent markings with precision.
The following industries require reliable laser marking solutions to ensure long-lasting performance and accuracy:

  • Automotive
  • Aerospace
  • Electronics
  • Medical

A. Automotive Industry

Inventory management, quality control, and tracing defective parts are all typical uses of laser part marking in the automotive industry. Datamatrix codes effectively provide the information necessary for all of these processes and more. Marking on braking discs is one of the most common applications. However, laser marking systems can be effective for marking plastic as well.

B. Aerospace Industry

Laser Part Marking systems can mark on titanium, steel, and aluminum. Alphanumeric and 2D DataMatrix codes are ideal for aerospace applications, where tracing parts and identifying them are necessary at all times. Marking aircraft turbine blades is a prime example of the effective use of laser part marking.

C. Electronics Industry

Component identification, brand recognition, and counterfeit product reduction are all efficient applications of laser marking in electronics. This process is efficient for marking plastic connectors as well.

D. Medical Device Industry

Traceability and quality of care are priorities for the medical field, and laser marking provides an efficient way to improve both. From pacifiers to surgical instruments, the process improves the readability of product IDs.

Industrial Laser Marking Machine Selection | Consult the Experts

Now that you understand the various factors to weigh and the considerations that go into laser marking machine selection, you may have further questions. If you need the highly visible and permanent marks that laser marking machines provide, Technomark experts are available to discuss those questions, or consider this free resource:

Laser Marking Downloadable Form

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manufacturing traceability solutions

Manufacturing Traceability Solutions: What Are The Options?

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Anyone who works in manufacturing, whether it’s automotive parts or oil and gas equipment, knows that proper traceability is key to product success. 

Having proper identification information on your components isn’t just helpful for inventory and maintenance, it’s also a federal requirement for many industries. 

But what are the manufacturing traceability solutions on the market for permanent identification? Well, there are a lot of options, some better than others. Here’s the rundown:

Which Manufacturing Traceability Solution Is Best for You?

The ideal product traceability solution for you will depend on your industry, processes, and applications. For example, delicate components like solar panels will benefit from laser marking, while other heavy-duty parts can use dot peen marking. 

At the end of the day, the goal is to provide permanent and legible marking. Some of the most well-known methods include:

  • Dot peen marking
  • Laser marking
  • Inkjet marking
  • Impact presses
  • Chemical etching

Dot Peen Marking

Dot peen is a direct part marking method, meaning that the marking head of the machine interacts directly with the component to achieve a permanent mark that is able to survive harsh operating environments

Dot peen machines use an impact stylus to create small indents on a part’s surface to create letters, numbers, logos, or  2D datamatrix codes. Because the mark is formed via material displacement instead of material removal, it is considered a low-stress marking technique ideal for aerospace as well as oil and gas applications.

This method of marking is compatible for complete automation The marking head can be integrated inline for high-volume production lines and requires minimal operator intervention.

Dot peen marking equipment is also well-suited to manual marking operations. It can mark large or hard-to-reach parts, especially if you’re using a hand-held dot peen machine. Plus, dot peen is compatible with a wide range of metal materials, including steel, iron, and aluminum.

Laser Marking

Laser marking is one of the most widely used manufacturing traceability solutions because of its versatility. The mark is achieved by super-heating the part surface to etch, ablate, or anneal the material substrate Target applications that are ideal for laser marking include:

  • Wide range of plastics
  • Ferrous and non-ferrous metals
  • Elastomer compounds
  • Organic materials (like wood or cardstock)

The laser marking system is ideal for high- or low-volume production capable of marking  high quality 2D data matrix barcodes and alphanumeric text to logos and graphics. 

Other benefits of laser marking include:

  • Compact design
  • Flexibility
  • Advanced, yet simple programming
  • Capable of full automation
  • 3D part marking
  • Solid state design
  • No consumables cost

While dot peen marking requires the stylus to make contact with the product, laser marking is a non-contact traceability method. This makes the laser better adapted to marking complex geometries or delicate materials. 

Inkjet Marking

While dot peen and laser marking systems provide a permanent traceability solution, inkjet marking is semi-permanent. 

Inkjet marking functions a lot like a regular printing machine — using drops of ink to mark information on a substrate. It’s often regarded as one of the fastest marking methods, and is capable of marking on:

  • Wood
  • Rubber
  • Concrete
  • Textiles
  • Plastic
  • Metal 

The downfall of inkjet marking is that it’s only semi-permanent. High levels of wear and tear or exposure to harsh environmental conditions can wear away the marking. As such, inkjet marking is usually used for consumer goods packaging, where the mark only needs to survive the short life of the product.

Impact Press Marking

Just like dot peen marking, an impact marking press indents a material with the desired identification information. However, the methods are different. 

Whereas dot peen marking uses a series of cold-stamped dots to mark text, 2D data matrix codes, or logos into a material, the impact press uses a die to stamp the information instead. 

The process is similar to a letterpress, where characters are arranged in a certain order and then stamped onto the substrate. But with impact marking, the tooling is applied with enough pressure to indent the material. 

A mechanical impact punch is versatile, capable of other manufacturing operations like coining or bending materials. However, the process isn’t digital (meaning the information is not dynamic) and has higher tooling and maintenance costs than other methods of marking. 

Chemical Etching

Chemical etching takes a completely different approach to direct part marking. This method uses chemical compounds to subtract materials from the marking surface via a process of electrolysis to create the impression. 

Chemical etching is essentially an accelerated form of oxidation. A stencil is soaked in an electrolyte solution and applied to the material. A low-voltage electric current is then applied to the stencil to initiate the oxidation process. 

Chemical etching requires several steps to prepare the part for marking, but it’s a cost-efficient and quick process. It’s also less invasive than other marking methods, making it ideal for thin-wall parts.

However, chemical etching, like the impact press, is not a digital process. The information on each stencil is fixed, so you’ll need unique stencils for each different marking. On the upside, the materials involved are low cost. Chemical etching is ideal for low-volume applications such as prototyping. 

This method of marking is mainly used for metal substrates like steel, aluminum, or nickel alloys. If you’re looking for marking on plastic or rubber, laser marking might be a better option. 

Finding the Right Direct Part Marking Method for Your Application

A lot hinges on proper identification for manufactured parts, so finding the right manufacturing traceability solution method for your operation is critical. Many of these methods can be customized to meet your specific requirements and improve your production line. 

To learn more about the benefits of dot peen and laser marking systems, contact us! We’ve provided industrial marking and traceability solutions for countless industries!

(Editor’s note: This blog was originally published in March 2021 and was updated in October 2022 to reflect current information.)