Laser Materials
Making your mark
Our fiber laser systems offer an out-of-the-box solution for engraving metal, coated metal, plastic, glass, ceramic and organic products, making the machines a cost-effective manufacturing solution. In manufacturing, a laser engraving machine is used for hundreds of different commercial and industrial products, from smartphones and watch batteries, to frying pans and toothbrushes.
Fiber lasers are incredibly versatile tools that can mark a range of materials. Metals such as stainless steel, titanium, anodized aluminium, brass, and copper can all be marked with a fiber laser with the process of laser marking preferable to traditional methods as it doesn’t alter the composition of the material or cause any damage to the surface. The result is a sharp and accurate engraving of the material, whether it’s text, a logo, or a design. The type of materials that can be marked with a fiber laser also includes plastics such as polycarbonate, PEEK, ABS, and acrylic. Imprints can also produced in rubber, silicone, and cotton fabrics.
With a fiber laser, you can create anything from serial numbers and bar codes to personal messages and company logos. The options are virtually limitless. The greatest advantage of using a fiber laser is that it leaves a permanent mark that can last for years, thus eliminating the need to regularly make new engravings.
We work with clients every day to carefully assess their application requirements and help them choose the right laser; allowing you to achieve reliable, precision results every time.
Aluminium
Anodised aluminium is frequently used for laser marking purposes. This very widely used metal is valued for its combination of being lightweight and durable, making it a popular material for products in the aircraft and automotive industries. Additionally, its high electrical conductivity makes it an ideal choice for long-distance power lines, satellite dishes, as well as electrical components found in most household appliances and power systems.
Brass
More and more businesses are choosing to use fiber lasers for marking brass. This method offers high-resolution and clarity, thanks to the small wavelength of light used. The marks left on the brass are precise and clear, without any blurring or distortions. Unlike traditional etching methods, fiber lasers can mark both visual graphics and text on brass. Another benefit is that fiber lasers often do not require any pre-treatment of the brass surface, which means they can be used directly on the material.
Cast Iron
Laser engraving on cast iron is typically accomplished through annealing, which involves heating the metal surface with a laser to create an oxide layer. This process results in a color change caused by a chemical reaction on the metal surface, without any material being vaporized or removed. Cast iron is susceptible to crack propagation, making laser engraving a safe option for creating permanent marks without damaging its physical integrity.
Copper
Copper is a unique metal that can be used in its natural form without being alloyed. Its high thermal and electrical conductivity make it a valuable material for various applications, such as electrical wiring, printed circuit boards, thermocouples, heat exchangers, electromagnets, and electric motors. A fiber laser can be used to engrave copper with high detail, creating long-lasting marks. Their use of a pulse of light ensures that only the targeted copper is affected by the heat, resulting in high accuracy.
Gold
Laser engraving has become a popular and effective method for adding value to gold products. As gold becomes more accessible, consumers are increasingly looking for personalized and customized pieces. Laser engraving can create highly detailed and permanent marks on items such as pendants, rings, and charms, featuring names, initials, or other personal inscriptions. Fiber lasers provide highly visible and long-lasting marks that resist fading. The laser transforms the surface of the metal without making contact with the product itself.
Metal
A good traceability system is crucial for quality monitoring in the production of engineering parts. Laser engraving metal is a popular method for creating permanent and legible traceability marks, particularly for parts that experience friction and heat. Laser engravers can be used on a wide range of metals, from stainless steel and soft metals to hardened metals, alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, brass, copper, carbides, high-speed steels, aluminium, anodised aluminium, and coated metals.
Plastics
Laser engraving machines boast remarkable versatility and can be employed to engrave various types of plastic, including ABS, polyamide, and polycarbonate. Due to its lower cost, lightweight nature, flexibility, and ease of manufacturing, plastic has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional materials like metal and wood. Nowadays, plastics are prevalent in a wide range of industries, from food and healthcare to automotive and infrastructure. Laser engraving has demonstrated its usefulness in marking plastic components across many of these applications.
Rubber
Fiber lasers are gaining popularity for engraving rubber due to their efficiency and precision. The focused and powerful beam of light produced by the laser allows for the creation of intricate designs with clean and precise lines. The use of fiber lasers also generates minimal heat and waste, making them an eco-friendly option for engraving rubber. Furthermore, fiber lasers require no heavy machinery or tools, making them a convenient and cost-effective choice for rubber engraving.
Stainless Steel
Fiber lasers are a great option for marking and cutting stainless steel because of their ability to quickly and cleanly penetrate through the metal. Not only are they energy efficient and cost effective, but they also provide high accuracy and surface finish. Unlike standard CO2 lasers, fiber lasers are particularly suited for cutting and welding small to medium-sized stainless steel pieces, reducing the need for additional polishing or finishing processes. With their efficient power delivery, fiber lasers are an ideal choice for manufacturers working with stainless steel.
Sterling Silver
Fiber lasers have numerous benefits when used for cutting sterling silver. They create clean and precise cuts with minimal burrs and heat affected areas, leaving behind a smooth finish. Fiber lasers are particularly useful for cutting complex shapes and designs, which can be done quickly and accurately while remaining cost-effective. Compared to other types of lasers, fiber lasers are more energy-efficient, reducing operational costs. As it requires minimal preparation and post-processing, it's an ideal way to achieve high-quality results with sterling silver.
Stone
Fiber laser technology is being used to mark stone surfaces with images and text, creating customized stones and monuments with high precision and efficiency. This technique has gained popularity due to its ability to provide a detailed, high-resolution finish that is difficult to achieve manually. Fiber laser marking is non-destructive, allowing for greater detail and finer lines. The laser beam heats the stone to a specific temperature, creating a permanent mark without damage. This method is ideal for various applications such as engraving, etching, and deep marking.
Wood
Laser engraving is a favored technique for adding a personal touch to wooden surfaces or uniquely labeling items. This method employs a concentrated light beam to precisely burn shapes and text onto wood. It is suitable for a broad range of wood types, from soft plywood to harder varieties like maple. As opposed to sanding or grinding, laser engraving doesn't involve direct contact with the wood, making it a safer option for certain applications, and it yields a professional appearance, lending a distinctive flair to any completed product.