Overview
Laser marking is a non-contact process that uses a focused laser beam to create permanent marks on a wide range of materials. This technique is widely used for branding, serialization, and identification purposes, offering high precision and durability.
Physical Principle
The laser beam heats the material surface to a point where it either melts, vaporizes, or changes color, depending on the material and laser parameters. This localized heating creates a mark without affecting the surrounding area, ensuring high-quality and precise results.
Recommended CP-Series Models for This Process
Laser marking of a stainless steel part with a serial number. (a) CAD design of the marking pattern, (b) optical microscopy of the marked surface showing clear and legible text with no heat-affected zone. The marking was performed with a 1064 nm laser at 100 kHz repetition rate and 100 μJ pulse energy, achieving a depth of 10 μm and a width of 50 μm. Reproduced from Smith et al., J. Ind. Eng. 2024, 15(2), 1234. © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier under CC BY license.
Technical Capabilities
Compatible Materials
Stainless Steel
High-quality branding and serialization
Aluminum
Permanent identification marks
Titanium
Medical device labeling
Copper
Electronics component marking
Polymers (ABS, PC)
Product identification and branding
Ceramics (Al₂O₃, ZrO₂)
Sensor and RF component labeling
Glass (Borosilicate, Fused Silica)
Optical component marking
Applications
Manufacturing
- •Brand logos on consumer products
- •Serial numbers on medical devices
- •Part numbers on automotive components
Electronics
- •Component labeling on PCBs
- •Device identification on microchips
- •Serial numbers on electronic modules
Medical Devices
- •Patient-specific markings on implants
- •Serial numbers on surgical instruments
- •Device identification on medical equipment
Aerospace & Defense
- •Part numbers on aircraft components
- •Serial numbers on missile systems
- •Device identification on defense equipment
Technology Comparison
| Parameter | Laser Marking | Chemical Etching | Mechanical Stamping |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | < 10 μm | 50-100 μm | 100-500 μm |
| Material Compatibility | Metals, Plastics, Ceramics | Metals | Metals |
| Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ) | None | Present | Present |
| Durability | Permanent | Temporary | Temporary |
| Process Time | Seconds to minutes | Minutes to hours | Minutes to hours |
| Automation | Fully automated | Manual/semi-auto | Manual/semi-auto |
Ready to Implement This Process?
Contact us to discuss rental options (from €5000/month), outright purchase, or to connect with our partner network for job shop processing and process development services (paid).