This section presents information ranging from the principles of metal marking and processing to benefits, grouped by laser wavelength.
It features optimal marking examples and laser markers for a variety of materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, iron, copper, cemented carbide and gold plating.

Stainless steel / iron

Annealed black marking

Oxidation of the surface with heat allows for a more intense black marking. Engraving / embossing of 1 μm or less is possible, thus minimizing damage to precision metal components.

Selection factor

Laser markers with the standard wavelength are optimal. Blur allows for reduced energy density, so providing black marking without the need for engraving. Therefore the use of a high performance laser marker allows marking to be performed at a higher speed.

White marking

White marking is achieved by lightly etching the surface of the material.
Roughing the metal surface causes a diffuse reflection of light, in order to resulte in a marked white.

Selection factor

Increasing power and setting a faster sweep speed allows users to perform target markings stably, and under a wide range of conditions. As with black marking, standard wavelength laser markers are optimal.

Deep engraving

This method allows users to record and mark without coloration, similar to stamping. Deeper engravings are possible through multiple markings. Deep engraving offers several advantages, such as ensuring visibility, even after applying paint at the end of marking.

Selection factor

For engraving, a fiber laser with a long pulse duration is best for melting and vaporizing the marked surface. In some cases, dialing multiple times in the same place quickly will provide a clearer marking than dialing slowly. Marking at a lower frequency and with higher pulse energy makes engraving easier.

Cemented carbide

Annealed black marking

Black marking without relief is possible, as with aluminum, stainless steel and iron.

Selection factor

To avoid cracking of super hard materials, such as tools, fine tuning of the Q-switch frequency is essential. Hybrid laser markers capable of producing high peak power and short pulse lasers are best.

White marking

It achieved by lightly etching the surface of the material.
Roughing the metal surface causes a diffuse reflection of light, in order to resulte in a marked white.

Selection factor

Increasing power and setting a faster sweep speed allows users to perform target markings stably, and under a wide range of conditions. As with black marking, standard wavelength laser markers are optimal.

Copper

Selection factor

Copper has high reflectance, so select a laser with a high power peak. UV lasers will have a higher absorption rate on metal compared to the standard wavelength, allowing for shorter marking times and less damage to the object. Marking is possible with standard wavelength lasers, but because of the lower absorption rate it will take longer, leading to soot and the like being generated in the marking area.

Gold plating

Selection factor

Q-switch frequency adjustment is required. Also, thicker plating layers will make marking difficult, and will require longer marking times. UV lasers offer a higher absorption rate and do not apply excess heat, so allowing a high quality finish.

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