Laser marking on aluminium

Characteristics

Aluminium marking solution

technomark-laser-marking-solution

Three sets consisting of GRAPHIX Inline 20W marking lasers and DATALOGIC Matrix 300N readers are on the production lines. This equipment ensures the traceability of the camshaft housings in aluminium casting. Each station is designed as follows:

  • A laser protection enclosure positioned above a conveyor with an access hatch from below.
  • The camshaft bearings are conveyed on pallets and stopped under the laser station.
  • A jack (up and down) positions the tool in the marking area with the part in the station. The station is then safe, and the part is marked.

If the marking is validated after proofreading the Datamatrix code, the part is cleared out.
Otherwise, the marking is erased by laser overlap, then marked again.
The laser is controlled via the Ethernet TCP-IP communication protocol. The complete cycle is managed by the line PLC.

Location

France

Commissioning

2017

Industry

Automotive

Technical details

Cycle time

20 to 30 seconds

Type of marking

Two marking zones with control of a Z axis

Industrial marking in the automotive industry: a high-quality solution

Industrial marking is an essential element of complete traceability in the automotive industry. Thanks to state-of-the-art technologies such as laser marking machines, automotive component manufacturers can guarantee durable, functional marking on a multitude of parts and components. The importance of marking in this sector cannot be underestimated, as it allows every part to be traced from its manufacture right through to its final installation in a motor vehicle.

Laser marking process: the ideal method

The laser marking process is the ideal marking method for many automotive manufacturers. Using laser markers, this technique offers high contrast and high-quality results, even on difficult materials. Laser marking machines can apply serial numbers, barcodes, QR codes and datamatrix codes with unequaled precision, enabling complete traceability of every component.

Laser marking applications

  1. Parts and components:
    • Serial numbers: Each part receives a unique identifier, crucial for tracking and tracing.
    • Barcodes and QR Codes: These markings facilitate inventory management and provide additional, quickly accessible information.
  2. Bodywork:
    • Chassis numbers (VIN): Motor vehicles have unique chassis numbers, laser-engraved to ensure legibility and durability.
    • Security Marks: Used to prevent counterfeiting and theft, these marks are essential for vehicle safety.
  3. Electronics:
    • RFID tags and Reference Numbers: These markings ensure efficient management of electronic components and facilitate maintenance.

The importance of durable marking

Durable marking of automotive components is of major importance for several reasons:

  • Full traceability: guarantees that each part can be tracked throughout its entire life cycle, from date of manufacture to end use.
  • Safety and Conformity: Laser markings guarantee that components meet international safety and performance standards.
  • Counterfeit prevention: High-contrast, high-quality markings make falsification more difficult, protecting product integrity.

Advantages of laser marking machines

Laser marking machines have become an essential tool for automotive companies. They offer several advantages:

  • High precision: Enables clear, exact marking, even on complex surfaces.
  • Versatility: Can be used on a variety of materials, including (metals, plastics)
  • Efficiency: The marking process is fast and can be easily integrated into existing production lines.