Metal engraving is an essential practice in the industrial world, enabling crucial information to be permanently marked on metal parts. But which laser power is needed to accomplish this task effectively?
Choosing the right laser power for metal engraving
Our aim is to guide professionals in choosing the right laser power for their metal engraving needs.
Whether for alphanumeric series, serial numbers, special characters, logos, time stamps, datamatrix or QR codes, understanding the different laser powers and their applications is crucial to guaranteeing precise, long-lasting and efficient engraving.
Depending on marking depth
Marking depth is a decisive factor in the choice of laser power. For superficial marking, a lower-powered laser may be enough, but for deeper engraving, particularly in materials such as aluminum or steel, higher power is required.
The depth of marking influences the selection of a suitable laser machine, taking into account the type of material to be engraved and the specific requirements of each industrial application.
The importance of correct set-up
Setting up a laser machine is a fundamental aspect of quality engraving. The most important parameters are the power the laser needs to generate, the scan speed of the marking, and the frequency. Precise adjustment can impact engraving quality, marking durability and process efficiency, while optimizing energy consumption and reducing operating costs.
Our guide to choosing the right laser machine
Choosing the right laser machine for your metal engraving needs is a crucial decision that influences the quality, precision and efficiency of your marking.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the options available, providing a clear understanding of which machine is best suited to different materials. By considering aspects such as laser power, wavelengths, and marking speed, you can optimize your work process while ensuring the best engraving efficiency and quality.
Materials | The most suitable marking machine |
Steel | Medium- to high-power fiber lasers |
Aluminium | Fiber or CO2 lasers for surface engraving; high-power fiber lasers for deep engraving |
Precious metals | Fiber lasers with adjustable power and focus parameters |
Plastics | CO2 lasers for precise surface engraving |
Glass and ceramics | CO2 lasers with specific power parameters |
Choosing the right laser machine means understanding the advantages of laser engraving. Here are just a few of them:
- Precision and quality: Laser light enables extremely precise engraving, capable of reproducing fine, complex details.
- Durability: Laser markings are resistant to wear, heat and chemicals, guaranteeing long-term traceability.
- Versatility: Laser machines can work on a wide variety of materials, offering considerable flexibility for different types of project.
- Speed: Laser marking is much faster than traditional methods, increasing productivity.
- Customization: With laser engraving, it’s possible to create unique patterns, serial numbers, logos or any other type of specific marking.
- Eco-friendly: Laser engraving is a clean, non-contact marking method, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Choosing the right laser machine for your metal engraving needs is essential to ensure maximum efficiency and optimum marking quality. By taking into account the different materials to be engraved and the specific advantages of laser engraving, you can select a machine that not only meets your immediate needs, but is also a sustainable solution for your future operations.
The right power for the application you have in mind
The choice of laser power is essential to ensure that your marking results are satisfying. Different types of use require different power levels to achieve the desired results. Understanding these needs will help you select the laser best suited to your specific application.
For marking barcodes, serial numbers or alphanumeric data on metals such as steel or aluminum, a fiber laser with a power of 20 to 50 watts is generally quite sufficient. This power range offers clean, precise engraving, ideal for traceability and product identification.
For heavy-duty industrial applications, such as the engraving of automotive or aeronautical parts, where durability and engraving depth are critical, fiber lasers with a power of 50 watts or more are recommended. These lasers can engrave deep into metal, ensuring that the marking remains legible even under extreme conditions.
Engraving on non-metallic organic materials such as glass, wood or cardboard, for example, requires a different approach. CO2 lasers, with powers ranging from 2 to 60 watts, are typically used for these materials, offering the flexibility needed to engrave detailed designs without burning or damaging the material.
In conclusion, the selection of laser power must be aligned with the specific intended use. Whether engraving fine details or deep, durable markings, choosing the right power will not only guarantee optimum engraving quality, but also increased efficiency and durability of your laser marking operations.