How do I Choose the Right Laser Marking Technology?

Laser part marking technology is increasingly vital across various manufacturing sectors, including automotive, aerospace, and medical industries. The demand from manufacturers and federal regulations necessitates the ability to track and trace products throughout their lifecycle.

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One of the most common questions we receive at MECCO is How do I choose the right marking technology for my application? The fact is, marking and engraving technology isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Various factors play a role in determining the most suitable option for your application.

Before investing in marking equipment for your plant, consider these three main factors to help you select the optimal laser technology:

1. Materials
Your first factor to consider is the type of material you will be marking. We typically categorize materials into two broad classifications: organic and non-organic.

Organic materials include wood, glass, plastic, and paper products. Non-organic materials encompass metals, steel, and cast aluminum—essentially anything that sparks when placed in a microwave (though we don't recommend attempting that!).

2. Type of Mark

After determining your material, consider how you want the mark to appear. Are you aiming for deep marks? Or greater contrast in your markings?
Depending on the marking technology, dark or frosted marks can be created. For example, if you're using barcode technology and face issues with your vision systems reading the code, frosted backgrounds with dark marks might be the solution. It all hinges on your specific needs and the desired appearance of your finished product.

3. Safety Considerations
Think about where your engraving machine will be positioned. Will it be on the plant floor near operators, or do you have a designated, enclosed area for it? Will the machine be replacing another marking technology like inkjet?
It's vital to ensure that if your laser marker is on an open shop floor, your laser supplier assists in installing a Class I laser safety system. This can include a laser-safe enclosure, warning lights, protective curtains to create safe entryways, and other safety measures. You might also consider a laser workstation that features a Class I safety enclosure and laser source all in one compact unit.

If using a Class IV laser, you’ll need a dedicated room that adheres to specific safety protocols, such as proper area postings, protective eyewear, and a key switch to comply with safety requirements.

What’s Next?

When to Opt for CO2 Lasers

Generally, if you want to mark product information on organic materials and prefer a non-contrast mark, CO2 laser marking technology may be your best bet. With a wavelength of 10.6 microns, this technology is typically safe for use in open environments with Plexiglass shielding. A CO2 marking machine is also a great alternative when replacing other marking technologies like inkjet, dot peen, or labeling.

Bottom line: CO2 lasers provide high mark quality and are a cost-effective option for marking date codes, serial numbers, and other product identification on wood, glass, rubber, plastics, cardboard, and product packaging.

When to Opt for Fiber Lasers

Alternatively, if you're marking non-organic materials like metal or plastic and desire contrast in your mark, fiber laser marking technology may be the most appropriate choice. Fiber lasers operate at a 1-micron wavelength and should be placed in a separate room or enclosure with doors, adhering to the CDRH (Center for Devices and Radiological Health) safety guidelines to ensure the safety of nearby personnel.

Bottom line: Fiber mark lasers offer extensive capabilities and produce high-quality marks ideal for engraving serial numbers, barcodes, 2D Data Matrix codes, and graphics on a wide array of materials, including metals, plastics, and ceramics.

When to Opt for Diode Pumped Lasers

If marking on plastic or anodized aluminum while aiming for a higher contrast mark, consider diode pumped laser technology. These lasers can have up to three times the power of conventional fiber lasers, delivering short pulses that produce clean, crisp marks with minimal surface disruption.

Bottom line: Diode pumped lasers create razor-sharp, high-contrast marks for improved readability on barcodes and scanners, enhancing traceability in your processes.

Interested in learning more about the laser marking machine? Contact us today for expert consultation!