A laser marking machine is a device used by multiple industries to mark something permanently on a surface with accuracy and perfection. Laser marking uses a focused and powerful laser beam for this process. This can be understood in easy words, this is just like putting a piece of paper in front of a magnifying glass under sun rays. The glass will turn the rays of the sun into a laser beam which will burn the paper. This is the same way a marking machine works, but it is more accurate and defined as it gives accurate markings. This is a permanent marking process and in the modern business landscape, it is being used by businesses that need to do laser marking on different materials and products. So, let’s study the laser marking machine in depth and understand its working, advantages, and features.
About the Working of Laser Marking Machine
Do you know that the word LASER is an acronym for Light Amplification. The laser beam is actually an atom that is revived to release particles of light. This light can be concentrated and can be directed to the area where marking needs to be done. The power of the laser beam works on the measure of its wavelength and nanometer, i.e., if the wavelength is higher, it will affect the laser beam and will make it more powerful. As per individuals, lasers are a mocking device that might inspire thoughts of some movies based on science or fiction, however, it is nothing like that as lasers are a very practical and useful element which is used in businesses all over the world. Moreover, unlike non-permanent marking processes like labeling or printing, laser marking machines manufacturers design it in a way that it requires less maintenance and uses no consumables.
Now, let’s study how the generation of laser beams works. The generation of laser beams depends on three components in any marking equipment. Here, the pump source is responsible for introducing energy to the laser marking machine. On the other hand, the excitation energy and wave position requirement of the machine is done by lasing medium. Some common lasing mediums included here are CO2 (gas), organic dyes (solid), and neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet. Lastly, For reflecting the light, an optical resonator and partially reflective mirror is being installed. This can also contain other things like q-switch or modulator which can change the generated laser beam properties.
When it comes to marking, the laser beam touches the workpiece’s surface which produces heat and causes a change in the material.
Types of Laser Marking Machine
For different applications and materials, there are different types of laser marking machines. Each technique comes with its own downsides and benefits, and it also depends upon applications, overall budget, and quality requirements. So, let’s study about it in detail:
Laser Etching
Laser etching is a versatile process which creates marks in workpieces by melting the surface. The mark which is produced by the laser beam delivers a high amount of energy to a localized, small area which changes, melts and expands the surface. Not only this, it also changes the color to white, black, or gray. This process is mainly used for producing marks like barcodes, serial number, logos, and data matrix codes. Moreover, laser etching can be performed on a range of materials like lead, steel, aluminum, stainless steel, etc.
Laser Engraving
In this process, the laser beam is used to remove some material from the component’s surface. This process absorbs heat from the laser, will melt and then evaporate. This whole process will create marks in the form of depression. Here the material will react with air and will change its color. Compared to other engraving methods, this method does not cost much as it uses special inks and drill bits. This laser technique can be applied on a wide range of material like plastics, ceramics, and metals.
Laser Annealing
To create a mark on the material, laser annealing is used. This makes a very minimal change on the surface of the material as it works between 20 to 30 um (measurement in microns). This technique changes the color of the material and makes it yellow, red, green, or black. This is an excellent technique for materials like titanium and ferrous metals. This is the reason that it is being used in a range of industries like aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and food & beverages.
Foaming
If you are looking to produce light-colored markings, foaming is a more suitable option than any other technique. In this process, the material is heated which melts it and emits gas bubbles. This marking method is the best type of option if you are looking to mark a dark-colored component.
Discoloration
To remove the layers of the workpiece, discoloration technique is used, revealing the underneath layer. Moreover, to display legible and excellent marking, this material is more effective for coated materials. Some other materials where discoloring works are amazing are foils, laminates, and films. In addition, it is also an excellent technique for marking fittings, labels, and packaging objects.
Types of Laser Markers
There are a range of laser marking machines available in the market for different uses and applications. Different laser marking machines are table top laser marking machine, jewellery laser hallmarking machine, CO2 laser marking machine, UV laser marking machine, jewellery laser engraving & cutting machines, and fiber laser marking machine. Each type of machine is ideal for different operations and different materials.
Advantages of Laser Marking
Laser marking machines come with a range of benefits. It not only helps in tracking the products, improving laser quality, and providing the finest laser, but it also gives accuracy, saves time, and money. Some major benefits of laser marking machines are high production speed, consistent repeatability, compatibility with a range of materials, low maintenance process, and durability marks.
Advanced laser marking machine is also a super eco-friendly production process as it does not use any chemical or harmful ink for the operations. Unlike traditional marking processes, modern laser marking technique works on energy efficiency and clean & environmentally friendly processes. In addition to this, laser marking technique is a non-contact process, which ensures limited material contamination and clean processing. There are some lasers that might burn the material down, but a laser marking machine is totally damage free and it involves little to no material penetration, which makes it an excellent choice.
In conclusion, it can be said that laser marking is a versatile process. It might look a bit expensive at the starting, but its extensive range of technology, permanent marking process, and high quality makes it stand out. If you are willing to invest in a good quality laser marking machine then check-out Super Tech Laser, it is a well-known laser marking machine manufacturer in Ahmedabad. Choose the best and produce more finished goods with less waste, energy, and downtime.