What Materials Can Be Marked Using Fiber Laser Systems?

Fiber laser machines can engrave anything from metals to plastic in many manufacturing processes, improving branding, traceability and aesthetics. The speed and accuracy allow for intricate designs and precise markings.

Fiber Laser Marking Basics

Fiber laser machines utilize a beam generated from optical fiber to produce high-contrast permanent markings. The laser beam is directed onto the material’s surface by a series of mirrors and focusing lenses inside the machine. Laser marking offers various advantages over other marking methods, including:

Precision and accuracy: The fiber-optic cable delivers excellent beam quality and allows for precise control and focused energy delivery.
Noncontact design: The laser beam does not physically touch the surface, eliminating the risk of damage to delicate materials such as glassware.
Speed: Fiber laser systems have high-speed scanning capabilities to enable quick mark completion while maintaining accuracy.

Key Materials for Fiber Laser Marking

Fiber laser machines offer the versatility needed to mark various materials with deep, high-contrast markings that resist corrosion, chemical damage and wear. They’re commonly used to mark:

Metals: The fiber laser marking technique is suitable for stainless steel, aluminum, brass, titanium and precious metals. Laser marking can engrave serial numbers, barcodes and logos on automotive, aerospace, medical and jewelry components.
Plastics: Common plastics such as PVC, ABS, polypropylene and polycarbonate can be easily marked using fiber lasers. These plastics are used in various consumer products, including automotive parts, electronics and household items. This equipment is ideal for marking barcodes, product information, safety labels and branding. Some plastics require laser-sensitive additives to reduce heat sensitivity.
Other materials: Fiber lasers can also engrave other materials, including ceramics, rubber, leather and certain fabrics, creating intricate, wear-resistant designs on cookware, promotional items, tools, toys, sports equipment, camping gear, wallets, belts and more.

Industry Applications

In automotive manufacturing and aerospace engineering, fiber lasers mark serial numbers and barcodes on metal components for traceability, easy identification and quality control. Similarly, electronics manufacturers may engrave logos and other branding information for advertising purposes. Laser marking also works well for engraving model numbers, manufacturing dates and unique identifiers on parts used in the medical industry to ensure patient safety and compliance.

Choosing a Fiber Laser Marking System

To achieve the best-quality marks, it is essential to consider these factors:

Material compatibility: Different materials require specific laser power and wavelengths for optimal marking.
Marking speed: Controlling the speed of the laser across the surface affects mark depth and throughput. Evaluate the system’s ability to meet your volume demands.
Software: The interface should be user-friendly and offer precise control over marking parameters.
Integration: The system should integrate seamlessly into your production line and adhere to safety standards to protect operators.

Increase Productivity With Our High-Quality Fiber Laser Marking Machines

Laser Marking Technologies, LLC serves companies in the automotive, medical and welding industries with laser marking and engraving machinery. Whether you need high-speed marking on delicate items or deep engraving on hard surfaces, our experts are available to answer any questions you have on what can be marked with a fiber laser.

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