Laser Engraving Expounded for All Learners

17 February 2021

Laser engraving refers to vaporizing a material into fumes with the precise laser beam acting as a sharp chisel. It forms an incision on the target material by removing several layers from the surface. For the beam to achieve this, it must focus on localised areas of the material using lots of energy to generate the required heat. The result is an engraving achieved with little manual intervention and limited wastage of the material being engraved. Here is what you need to know about the fine details of laser engraving:

What to Think About

The first step to making the most of laser engraving is going for a process that works for you. Certainly, this depends on the results you want while considering other priorities like the need to keep the costs low. The right laser mark starts with you thinking about the marking's resistance. It must remain legible and clear under harsh and favourable conditions. Secondly, you must think about the engraving speed and the time required to make the engraved marks. Taking too long can be a bottleneck in terms of cost and unpreferable for large-scale projects. Third, you must pay attention to the material in question, ensuring that its ideal for laser engraving. 

The Techniques Involved

Different types of materials that require engraving come with unique properties. Therefore, engravers must use various engraving methods to guarantee the best results regardless of material. The primary methods are laser marking, laser engraving and laser etching. 

• Laser marking – Laser marking involves an interaction of the laser beam with the material being engraved. The engraver uses a discolouration technique by slowly passing an intense laser beam over the material. In the end, you will have high-contrast marks on the material as clear labels that do not disrupt the material's structure. 
• Laser engraving – Unlike laser marking, laser engraving generates high heat that vaporizes the material with each subsequent pulse. The process is quick and it leaves a cavity that you can spot easily by sight or touch. Usually, engravers form deep marks through repeated passes of the laser beam.
• Laser etching – Laser etching is a unique form of laser engraving. It happens when the laser beam's heat melts the material, changing the nature of the surface and the reflectivity. Consequently, the process leaves a high-contrast mark. Laser etching is the best process for engraving anodized, plated or bare metal surfaces. It also works well for ceramics and polymers.

For more information, contact a laser engraving service.