What is Laser Marking and How it Works?
Laser marking is a process that uses a focused beam of light to create permanent marks on the surface of materials. Here's an overview of how laser marking works:
What is Laser Marking?
Video by Trotec Laser
Laser marking is a technique that uses a concentrated laser beam to produce permanent, high-quality marks on various materials without damaging the surface. It can create text, numbers, barcodes, logos, and other patterns.
How Laser Marking Works?
The basic process involves the following steps:
A laser beam is generated by stimulating a lasing medium (e.g. fiber, CO2, or crystal).
The laser beam is focused and directed at the target surface using mirrors and lenses.
When the laser beam hits the material, it transfers energy in the form of heat.
This heat causes a reaction on the surface, creating a visible mark through one of several mechanisms:
Color change
Engraving
Etching
Annealing
Foaming (for plastics)
The laser beam is precisely controlled to trace out the desired pattern or text
Key Aspects of Laser Marking
Non-contact process: The laser doesn't physically touch the material, reducing wear and contamination.
Precision: Laser marking can create very fine details and small text.
Permanence: The marks are typically permanent and resistant to wear.
Material compatibility: Works on metals, plastics, wood, glass, and many other materials.
Speed: Laser marking can be performed quickly, making it suitable for high-volume production.
Automation: The process can be easily automated and integrated into production lines.
Types of Laser Marking
Different laser marking techniques are used depending on the material and desired effect:
Laser engraving: Removes material to create deep, permanent marks.
Laser etching: Creates high-contrast marks by melting the surface.
Laser annealing: Heats metal to create oxide layers, changing the color.
Laser foaming: Creates raised marks on plastics by causing the material to foam.
Laser marking has become a popular choice for product identification, traceability, and branding due to its versatility, speed, and ability to create durable, high-quality marks on a wide range of materials.
