What Are The Laser Marking Methods?
Etching, engraving, deep engraving, and annealing are the four main laser part marking methods and can be used to permanently mark all types of metals. Our experts can help you choose the right laser process for your application.
Laser Etching
Laser etching is the fastest laser process and is the one we recommend for most marking applications. It etches a raised mark by melting the micro-surface of the material. It can be used to trace most metal parts, including steel, aluminum, anodized aluminum, lead, magnesium, and zinc.
Laser Engraving
Laser engraving is the ideal process to track parts subjected to high abrasion levels. It engraves machine-readable codes deep into the material through laser ablation. With Laserax’s technology, 2D data matrix codes engraved like this can even withstand shotblasting.
Deep Laser Engraving
Deep engraving is used to engrave codes, logos, and characters that must meet specific depth and aesthetic requirements. Typical applications include deep logo engraving, stamping plate engraving, and mold insert engraving.
Laser Annealing
Laser annealing is a special process used to track parts that must preserve their corrosion resistance, such the ones made of stainless steel or that are chrome plated. The laser beam heats the surface of the material until it creates a chemical reaction under the surface, leaving a well-defined laser mark.
Other Part Marking Methods
Dot Peen Marking
Like laser marking, dot peening provides permanent results. This marking method creates marks by hitting parts with a stylus. While the result is generally permanent, those types of markings have a low contrast and are not as resistant to surface treatments.
Inkjet Printing
Depending on who you talk to, inkjet printing may or may not be classified as a direct part marking method. Although it creates markings by propelling ink directly on the part, the resulting ink layer is not permanent. Ink markings can be erased or severely damaged as a result of abrasion. Ink can also partially clog the nozzle, requiring more maintenance and diminishing the quality of the codes over time.
Labels
Labeling is not a reliable traceability method. It isn’t even a direct part marking method. Because labels are glued to the surface, they may fall off and are not permanent. Traceability becomes compromised if the labels are accidentally removed anywhere in the supply chain.
Related article: Automotive Part Marking Technologies - Which One to Choose?
Laser Marking Solutions
Laserax offers marking solutions designed to integrate direct part marking anywhere in production lines. Our lasers are the fastest on the market. They can keep up with high-speed applications to make sure that the marking operation isn’t a bottleneck.
You can either choose a laser marking machine for a turnkey solution or an OEM laser marker to integrate a custom solution. Contact our experts today to find the most effective solution for your application.