Laser engraving is a surface finishing process that uses a laser to etch or mark a design onto a material’s surface. A laser generates an intense beam of light that can be precisely focused to engrave fine details and patterns not achievable by other methods. Laser engraving is used for decoration, labeling, marking, and personalization on a wide range of materials like metal, plastic and stone.
Laser engraving is an attractive marking technique for a variety of materials thanks to its permanent and high precision nature.
Decoration -Create unique visual effects and patterns on product surfaces to enhance aesthetics.
Branding -Engrave logos or other identifiers on products for brand promotion.
Customization – Personalize products by engraving names, dates, or other custom information.
Functional marking – Create scales, dials, buttons and other functional markers.
Security marking – Add unique serial numbers or anti-counterfeiting marks.
Value adding – Increase product value through engraving.
Permanent marking – Laser can create permanent markings on material surfaces.
High precision marking – Laser beam focusing allows for fine and intricate patterns.
The Laser Engraving Process
Achieving quality laser engraving requires careful planning and execution of the complete laser marking workflow.
- Design – Creating vector and raster design files specifying patterns, graphics, text, serial numbers.
- Material preparation – Ensuring the material surface is clean and ready, with coatings removed if needed.
- Laser setup – Selecting suitable laser, lenses, power, speed, and focus parameters based on the material.
- Test engraving – Performing trial laser marks on sample pieces to fine tune settings.
- Engraving – Operating the laser engraving system according to programmed design files. Monitoring the process.
- Post-processing – Cleaning debris, removing protective coatings, smoothing surfaces. Adding color fills if needed.
- Inspection – Verifying engraving quality and whether it meets specifications. Repeat engraving or re-polish if necessary.