LASER is the method of emitting electromagnetic radiation, such as visible light or as light by stimulating emission. Laser is an acronym for Light Amplification through Stimulated Emission Radiation.
The expanding quantity of industries as well as the increasing competition among these industries will continue to require them to adopt the latest technology. This has led to the laser systems being used to perform a wide range of industrial tasks, such as cutting and marking, stamping embossing, engraving and embossing. The primary difference between laser marking systems over other types of marking is the distinctive blend of efficiency, durability and the flexibility of computer-controlled marking. The software that is used in the laser marking is accessible through PCI interface cards. The card transmits digital signals of computer-based marking file to the motors and will direct the laser beam to the object being laser-marked with desktop laser marking machine.
Lasers that are used to mark objects include:
CO2 Lasers – they can create permanent codes to ensure permanent traceability. This can reduce the cost of manufacturing and will be able to easily integrate with automated systems.
Excimer Lasers come in the following UV light wavelengths of 157 nm 193 nm nm 308 nm, 351 nm. It is typically used for Inkjet Drilling Nozzles, Marking Eye Glasses etc.
YAG Lasers are commonly used as a base platform for creating various wavelengths when correctly configured. The most flexible wavelength available is Infrared (1064nm). The wavelength used to identify various materials, including ceramics, metals and composites, and a few plastics.
The various types of processes that are involved within laser marking system comprise:
Surface Annealing
Surface annealing draws oxides or carbon out of the base material, making a distinct mark. The beam that marks will create a an entrancing line that contrasts with the surrounding area , with minimal or any penetration. This is ideal for situations that require a smooth, unaffected surface and contrast are required. Surface annealing is utilized predominantly on medical implanting tooling, bearings etc.
Surface Etching
Surface etching allows you to alter reflectivity as well as enhancing contrast of metals through altering the finish of the metal’s surface. It is among the most frequently used laser marking techniques, whose penetrating depth is generally less than 0.0001″ deep.
Ablating
Ablating is a method of creating contrast, without harming the material that is used as the base. This technique is usually done using the backlit button, anodized aluminum and also painted steel.
Thermal Marking
This method is based on controlling heat by using various laser parameters, including the speed of marking as well as the pulse’s frequency and power and the focus. It is mostly applied to specific alloys, which causes color changes.
Engrave Marking
The required depth is created by the vaporization of the base material. This type of marking is similar to surface etching and is usually used in 0.0001″ to 0.005″ depth. Repeated passes enhance the depth of the mark.
Specialty Marking
The system for marking specialties is widely used in plastics. There is a natural change in the contrast of certain plastics through the heat or by the coupling of a wavelength that creates a chemical reaction. Additives can be utilized with most plastics in order to produce various hues. One of the examples of specialty marking can be Product Traceability, which is the capability of a manufacturer to track a product’s progress through the process of manufacturing and also having the ability to trace products back to the manufacturer.
