Laser engraving on plastic is an innovative technique for indelibly marking this material. It offers a high-quality finish, with a visible, unalterable white color and a marking depth that can be adjusted according to the settings. This process can be applied to various types of plastic, including Plexiglas, ABS and metallized plastic. Choosing the right laser source is essential to avoid overheating or damage.
Understanding the laser engraving process
Initially, the laser engraving process requires the preparation of a digital file containing the pattern or text to be engraved. This file is sent to the laser engraver, who then positions the beam. From this point, the laser beam is focused on the surface of the plastic. The energy received causes the material to heat up and melt or vaporize.
- Not all types of plastic are suitable for this process. Acrylic, polycarbonate, polyamide and polyethylene terephthalate (PETG) are the most compatible.
The engraving process can be adjusted by modifying laser beam power and machine speed. This enables the engraving depth and intensity to be controlled. During this process, the structure of the plastic molecules, as well as additives such as color pigments, can be modified or destroyed, creating a visible marking.
Laser engraving on various materials: metal and plastic
Laser engraving works equally well on metal and plastic. On both materials, it offers precise, detailed engraving resolution if the parameters and choice of laser type are correct.
For metal, the laser beam causes a chemical reaction that changes the color of the surface, creating a contrasting marking. Darker metals, such as stainless steel, offer the best contrast, while lighter metals, such as aluminum, give more discreet results.
For plastics, the process is different. The laser heats the plastic to a point where it begins to melt and vaporize. Depending on the type of plastic, this can lead to a change in color. For example, some plastics like Plexiglas or ABS turn black when laser engraved, while others, like polypropylene, remain the same color.
It should be noted that some materials, such as PVC, are not suitable for laser engraving, as they give off toxic gases when heated.
Laser marking on plastics: applications and benefits
Laser marking on plastic is widely used in a variety of industries, including electronics, automotive and medical. It is used to produce unique identifiers, barcodes or serial numbers on plastic parts. Applications range from nameplates to inventory plate
The advantages of laser marking on plastic are multiple. Firstly, it’s a non-contact method that requires no physical tools, minimizing the risk of damaging the material. Secondly, thanks to the precision of the laser, extremely fine and detailed patterns can be produced. Thirdly, the marking is durable and resistant. Last but not least, the marking process is fast, which increases productivity.
Various types of plastic are compatible with laser marking, including acrylic, polycarbonate, polyamide and polyethylene terephthalate (PETG).
Necessary steps for laser engraving
First, choose the plastic to be engraved. There are many laser-engravable plastic options to choose from depending on your needs, such as PMMA, polyurethane (PU), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyoxymethylene (POM), polycarbonate (PC), polyamide (PA), polypropylene (PP).
Next, prepare the digital design file. This file contains the motif or text to be engraved. It is generally created using graphic design software.
Finally, you need a suitable laser. A CO2 or Fiber laser is sufficient for engraving plastics. Adjusting the laser power is crucial to avoid damaging the material.
Note that direct marking on plastic eliminates the need for chemicals and consumables such as ink, sprays or pastes.