If you’re looking for ways to improve your product’s aesthetics, laser marking on metal components is a good choice. Unlike other forms of marking, lasers do not damage the surface of metal. Instead, they create a thin layer of oxide that takes on a dark color and contrasts with the color underneath. The process also removes part of the material from the component, creating an uneven surface that reflects light. This reflective layer is what makes laser marking on metal components visible visit this website lasit.it
Applications
Among the many applications of laser marking on metal components is identifying individual component parts. In addition to identifying individual components, laser marking can permanently change the surface of a metal part, making it easier to determine which parts make up a certain component. Moreover, the automation of laser marking systems promotes uniformity and duplication of markings. Industrial laser marking systems can reliably label parts in a factory. Modern laser marking systems can complete this task quickly and efficiently, thereby saving time and money. In some cases, this technology can even eliminate expenses associated with other types of labeling systems.
Laser marking on metal components can create permanent characters and graphics on parts. This method is especially useful for medical devices and other parts where traceability and branding are required. It is important to note that the process is not an easy one, as it requires a lot of practice and experience. However, once learned, the application of laser marking on metal components is widely used in medical devices. This article will introduce some of the most common applications of laser marking on metal components.
Processes
There are two primary ways to create permanent markings on metal components. Laser oxidation and laser marking are both forms of surface alteration. Annealing is the process of heating an area close to its melting point to form a thin oxide layer, which contrasts with the color underneath. Lasers are used to change the color of metal by melting or annealing it, but they also produce effects that make markings permanent.
The primary applications of laser marking on metal are codes and traceability features. Typical applications for laser marking metals include the electronics, electrical, tool manufacturing, and medical industries. Other applications include promotional materials and the automotive industry. In addition to creating permanent markings, laser marking can also be used to produce complex graphics and barcodes. It’s also a great choice for marking metal parts, especially those with high-volume production runs usglobalworld.
Surface treatments
In addition to engraving, laser marking can be used to change the color of metal components. In some cases, manufacturers will use proprietary coatings on the work piece’s surface. But the chemical changes caused by laser marking may permanently discolor this coating. Other laser marking systems create variable colors depending on the surface temperature of the metal substrate. Whatever the case, laser marking on metal components offers a great deal of versatility and flexibility for surface treatments.
Fiber lasers can produce higher brightness than CO2 lasers, and this technique produces light markings with varying shades. Deep engraving of aluminum can result in a black etch. The fiber laser can also mark titanium. Different frequencies can be used to achieve various colors on titanium. These three processes are generally combined. In combination, these processes allow for excellent readability on the components. And while laser marking is a great option for surface treatments, it should not be used for manufacturing parts made from hardened steel.
Machines
There are many advantages of laser marking on metal components in machines. The process is relatively safe and requires little maintenance. The lasers used in the process are extremely durable and last over a hundred thousand hours. In addition to being fast and effective, laser marking also has other benefits, including no waste or consumption of materials. If you are considering laser marking for your manufacturing needs, consider MECCO’s extensive training resources and free marking samples.
Fiber laser equipment allows you to create state-of-the-art designs on metal with a fraction of the effort required in conventional printing. Laser engraving on metal uses the same general principles as etching, but produces much more distinguishable signs. These techniques are often referred to as “ablation” or “etching” and can handle virtually any metal. Custom marking and personalization are highly recommended for these materials. In addition, fiber laser machines can process stainless steel and other sensitive metals.
Regulations
Before the FDA required the use of UDI (Uniform Device Identification) marking on metal components, manufacturers often utilized direct laser part marking for alignment and depth aids, logos, and part numbers. Dark laser marks ensure visibility from all angles, avoid the need for post-processing cleaning, and project the quality of the product to the end user. For these reasons, manufacturers are increasingly turning to laser marking on metal components.
One application of laser oxidation marking is in the manufacturing of beer kegs, which must be permanently marked with a serial number. The same process is commonly used for automotive and aerospace bearings, which are more durable than engraving. Both types of marking, however, can create micro cracks on metal parts and may even weaken the structural integrity of the component. This process offers several benefits and is growing in popularity.
Costs
There are several benefits of laser marking metal components. First, it is a more environmentally friendly process than other marking methods, since laser marking uses no chemicals or inks. Second, it requires less electrical energy. Finally, laser marking can be a great cost-cutting tool, as it costs less than $0.02 per mark in high-volume manufacturing environments. And, the initial investment in a laser is more than offset by the cost of the ink and labels.
When deciding on the laser source to use for marking, consider the material to be marked. Each type of material reacts differently to wavelengths, so the source should be selected accordingly. Also, consider the melting point of the material, its response to heat, and hardness. For instance, aluminum is softer than steel, and therefore has a lower melting point. Consider these things before deciding on a laser source.