How To Use Laser Marking Machine To Make High-definition Marking on Metal Surface?

Laser marking technology is a precision processing technology that uses high-energy laser beams to mark the surface of materials. Since the 1970s, with the continuous development of laser technology, laser marking has been widely used in many fields such as industrial manufacturing, electronic products, medical equipment, automobiles and aerospace. With its high precision, high speed and environmental protection, laser marking has gradually replaced traditional mechanical engraving, coding and other identification methods, and has become one of the indispensable important technologies in modern manufacturing.

In metal processing, high-definition marking is particularly important. Metal materials are widely used in the manufacture of various products and components due to their superior mechanical properties and durability. With the in-depth development of production automation and intelligence, the requirements for identification accuracy and clarity are also increasing. High-definition marking can not only provide clear identification information, such as serial numbers, barcodes, graphic logos, etc., but also effectively improve product traceability and brand image. In some industries with high safety requirements, such as aerospace and medical equipment, clear and reliable marking is essential to ensure product quality and reliability.

Therefore, mastering the application of laser marking technology on metal surfaces can not only help improve production efficiency, but also ensure product quality and safety, bringing greater market competitiveness to enterprises. This article will explore in depth the specific process and methods of using a laser marking machine to perform high-definition marking on metal surfaces.

Laser marking machine is a device that uses a highly concentrated and high-energy laser beam to mark the surface of a material. The basic principle is to use the light energy of the laser to cause a thermal reaction in the material, thereby forming a permanent mark on its surface. Laser marking has the advantages of high speed, high precision, and low pollution, and has been widely used in industrial manufacturing.

1. Working principle of laser marking machine

Laser generation: The core part of the laser marking machine is the laser, which converts electrical energy into a laser beam. The type of laser determines the characteristics of the laser, including wavelength, power, and beam quality.

Beam modulation and transmission: The generated laser beam is modulated and focused by a lens, optical fiber, or reflector, and gathered to a very small point, which greatly increases the light energy density.

Interaction between laser and material: When the focused laser beam is irradiated on the metal surface, the material will melt, vaporize, or ablate due to the high temperature, forming the desired mark. Laser marking can achieve marking effects of different depths and patterns on metals.

Control system: The laser marking machine is equipped with a computer control system, which can program the power, speed, and marking path of the laser through software to achieve a variety of complex marking contents.

2. Different types of lasers and their applicability in metal marking

Laser marking machines can be divided into many types according to the different laser sources. Common laser types include fiber lasers, CO2 lasers, and UV lasers, each with different properties and scope of application.

● Fiber laser

Working principle: Fiber lasers use optical fibers doped with rare earth elements as gain media to generate lasers under excitation.

Advantages: Fiber lasers have the characteristics of high efficiency, good beam quality, small size, and low maintenance costs.

Applicable metals: Fiber lasers are suitable for almost all metal materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, copper, iron, etc., and can achieve clear markings. They are widely used in industrial manufacturing, electronic products, and pharmaceutical industries.

● CO2 laser

Working principle: CO2 lasers use gas (mainly carbon dioxide) as laser media and generate lasers through current excitation.

Advantages: CO2 lasers have a longer wavelength and are suitable for cutting and marking non-metallic materials such as wood and plastics.

Applicable metals: Although CO2 lasers are mainly used for non-metals, they can also be applied to metal marking under certain specific conditions (such as thin aluminum or galvanized sheets). However, compared with fiber lasers, CO2 lasers are generally less effective in metal marking, with lower depth and contrast.

● UV laser

Working principle: UV lasers produce laser wavelengths of around 355nm, which can achieve very fine laser focusing.

Advantages: UV lasers have extremely high beam quality and low thermal impact, and the relatively low heat allows them to perform fine marking without damaging the material.

Applicable metals: UV lasers are particularly suitable for marking certain special metals and coated materials, such as aluminum, magnesium, and plastic-coated metals, and can achieve high-definition patterns and digital markings. For some delicate applications, such as marking electronic components, UV lasers have strong advantages.

Understanding the basic principles of different types of laser marking machines and their applicability is essential for choosing the right laser marking solution. According to the nature of the material, the requirements of the marking, and the specific application scenarios, choosing the right laser type can effectively improve the marking quality and production efficiency. Fiber lasers have become the main choice in the field of metal marking due to their wide applicability and superior performance, while CO2 lasers and UV lasers also play an important role in specific applications. Click here for more information

Before laser marking, you need to make adequate preparations to ensure a smooth marking process and ideal final results.

1. Equipment selection

Choosing the right laser marking equipment is a key consideration to ensure marking quality and efficiency. The following aspects need to be considered when choosing:

Material type: Different types of laser marking machines are suitable for different materials.

Marking depth and speed: Select a laser marking machine with appropriate power and speed according to your needs. High-power machines can achieve deeper marking depths and are suitable for applications that require wear resistance.

2. Material preparation

Choosing the right metal material is an important step to ensure the marking effect:

Stainless steel: Due to its high corrosion resistance and strength, it is often used for marking in industries such as medical, food, and electronics. Fiber laser marking machines have excellent marking effects on stainless steel materials.

Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, it is a common material in industries such as electronics. For aluminum, both fiber lasers and UV lasers can provide high-quality marking effects.

Copper: Commonly used in the manufacture of electrical and electronic components, fiber lasers can achieve high contrast and detailed effects on copper.

When preparing materials, it is also necessary to ensure that the surface of the material is clean and free of foreign matter such as oil, dirt, etc. to ensure the optimization of the laser marking effect.

3. Design files

The design of the marking pattern is an important part of the marking process. It is usually necessary to use professional design software to create design files, such as CorelDRAW, AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator, etc.

Design points:

Make sure the drawing size matches the working area of the laser marking machine.

The file format must be compatible with the laser marking machine, usually supporting DXF, AI, PLT and other formats.

If the mark contains text, pay attention to the font selection and size to ensure readability and clarity after marking.

The efficiency and quality of laser marking can be effectively improved through the orderly preparation of equipment selection, material preparation and design files. In actual operation, maintaining communication with equipment suppliers and design teams and solving potential problems in a timely manner will be more helpful in achieving the expected marking effect. Click here for more information

Laser marking is a delicate and somewhat dangerous job, so during the operation, a series of safety operating procedures and precautions must be followed. The following are important safety precautions and precautions:

1. Safety precautions

Wear laser protective glasses: When performing laser operations, always wear laser protective glasses of appropriate wavelength to protect your eyes from laser radiation. Make sure the glasses meet relevant safety standards and are suitable for the type of laser used.

Use protective masks and devices: In some cases (such as handling high-power lasers), you can wear a protective mask or use other protective devices to reduce potential risks to the face and skin.

Fire prevention measures: During laser marking, smoke and sparks may be generated. In work areas near flammable items, ensure that there are adequate fire prevention measures, such as fire extinguishers and fire blankets, and check their effectiveness regularly.

Wear appropriate work clothes: Wear heat-resistant and fire-resistant work clothes, and ensure that your hands are wearing wear-resistant gloves to avoid direct contact with the laser and possible high-temperature objects.

2. Ensure a good working environment

Good ventilation: Ensure that the working environment is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of smoke and harmful gases. Use exhaust fans or filtering devices to improve air circulation and reduce the concentration of harmful substances.

Avoid clutter: The marking area should be kept clean and avoid placing tools, materials and other debris near the marking machine to prevent accidental collisions or fires.

Clean the equipment regularly: Keep the laser marking machine and its surroundings clean to reduce the impact of smoke and dust on the equipment, and ensure that the laser beam is not obstructed when passing through the transparent window.

3. Operating procedures

Follow the operating manual: Carefully read and follow the operating manual and safety instructions of the laser marking machine and operate in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended specifications.

Check the equipment regularly: Before each use, check the status of the laser marking machine to ensure that all safety protection devices are working properly. Perform maintenance and maintenance regularly.

Avoid direct observation of the laser beam: During operation, avoid direct observation of the laser beam with the naked eye, especially unfiltered lasers, to prevent eye damage.

Stay alert: When operating the laser marking machine, stay focused and avoid distractions. If you must leave the workbench halfway, be sure to stop the machine first.

4. Emergency handling

Understand the emergency stop mechanism: Be familiar with the location of the emergency stop button and other emergency equipment of the laser marking machine to ensure that you can take action quickly and effectively when needed.

Handle unexpected events: If an unexpected event such as fire, equipment failure or personal injury occurs, immediately follow the predetermined emergency handling procedures and evacuation routes.

By following these safe operating procedures and precautions, you can better ensure the safety of operators and the working environment and reduce potential risks. Click here for more information