Laser marking &Laser engraving

The terms “Laser Marking” and “Laser Engraving” are frequently use interchangeably but there is a difference. Generally speaking, Laser Marking refers to placing legible information onto the surface of a part with little or no penetration whereas Laser Engraving refers to placing information into a part with obvious penetration below the surface.  The same laser can accomplish either technique simply by changing settings within the laser marking software.

Laser engraving, is the practice of using lasers to engrave an object. Laser marking, on the other hand, is a broader category of methods to leave marks on an object.including color change due to chemical/molecular alteration, charring, foaming, melting, ablation.The technique does not involve the use of inks, nor does it involve tool bits which contact the engraving surface and wear out, giving it an advantage over alternative engraving or marking technologies where inks or bit heads have to  replace regularly.

The impact of laser marking has been more pronounc for specially design “laserable” materials and also for some paints. These include laser-sensitive polymers and novel metal alloys.

The term laser marking is also used as a generic term covering a broad spectrum of surfacing techniques including printing, hot-branding and laser bonding. The machines for laser engraving and laser marking are the same, so that the two terms are sometimes confus by those without knowledge or experience in the practice.