Although laser equipment appeared in the middle of the last century, it has become an across-the-board industry trend in the last 10-15 years. What is more, nowadays laser equipment is even more affordable and you can find lasers even for small businesses. An example of such equipment is a laser marking machine or as the French say machine de marquage laser.

How does a laser marking machine work?

Depending on the equipment model, laser machines are used to apply long-term images, inscriptions, markings, engravings, and colorization on different surfaces.

The surface can be almost any – metal, plastic, wood, polymer, and even cardboard. The processing depth, depending on the technology, varies from several nanometers to several millimeters.

Several types of lasers are commonly used for marking and engraving. The first type is CO2 lasers, which were invented back in the 60s. The second common type of equipment is modern fiber laser machines, which work better on metal surfaces and are faster and more economical. There are several other types of lasers, but they are not used as often.

Why do we need laser marking machines?

1. For applying inscriptions to the surface of products or packaging. For example, batch numbers, production dates, and other text information.
2. For applying images. For example, logos. Some lasers can produce colored images on metal surfaces.
3. For the application of barcodes, QR codes, and other markings, including for automatic reading by other equipment during the production process.
4. For cutting materials, including metal blanks, microcircuits, and so on.

Advantages of laser marking machines

Firstly, laser equipment, especially fiber lasers, can produce images and inscriptions very quickly. Unlike other marking methods, lasers can mark hard-to-reach areas of the workpiece.

Secondly, laser marking machines produce highly accurate images. In this case, the laser does not contact the surface of the material mechanically.

Thirdly, the marking process can be fully automated. The user designs the image or lettering and programs the laser equipment. If necessary, the design can be changed at any time.

Finally, laser equipment is very cost-effective because no consumables are required during the marking or engraving process. Lasers do not consume large amounts of energy and can operate around the clock for many years.

Choosing the best laser machine: step-by-step guide

1. Each type of laser is suitable for certain tasks and processing of certain materials. Some lasers work better with metals, others with polymers or wood.
2. The second important parameter is power, which varies from 30 watts to 120 watts (in exceptional cases).
3. Also, consider the type of lens. The type of lens affects the speed and accuracy of work, as well as the size of the working field.
4. The working field is the area for the laser to operate. Depending on the model of the equipment, the size of the working field can be either compact or very large.

We recommend that you contact a specialist, and tell them what you want to do with laser equipment, and the experts will help you choose the right laser marker.