What is Laser Marking?
Laser marking is the process of creating permanent marks on the surface of materials using a laser beam. This method is widely used in many fields such as industrial production, serial numbering, logo printing and product identification.
The success of laser marking systems depends on the material used. Therefore, knowing the most suitable materials for laser marking is critical to choosing the right equipment.
Suitable Materials for Laser Marking
Laser marking can give varying results on different types of materials. Below you will find the main materials suitable for laser marking and the combinations that give the best results depending on the laser type.
1. Metals
Metals are the most widely used materials for laser marking. Fiber lasers provide high-contrast and permanent marking on metals.
- Stainless Steel: Widely used for serial numbers, barcodes, logos and medical products.
- Aluminum: Aluminum with anodic coating offers excellent results for laser marking.
- Brass and Bronze: Suitable for decorative markings and serial numbering.
- Titanium: A durable material used in the aerospace, medical and automotive industries.
- Copper Although it is difficult to process because it conducts heat quickly, successful results can be achieved with high-power lasers.
The Most Suitable Laser: Fiber Laser
2. Plastics and Polymers
Plastic materials are suitable for laser marking, but with variable results depending on the material type.
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Commonly used in electronic devices, provides clear and sharp marking.
- Polycarbonate: Used in the automotive and medical industries.
- Polyethylene and Polypropylene: Widely preferred in the packaging industry.
- Acrylic Suitable for transparent or colored marking.
The Most Suitable Laser: UV Laser or CO₂ Laser
3. Glass and Ceramics
Precise laser marking on glass and ceramic surfaces. Especially used on bottles, laboratory equipment and decorative products.
- Glass: Precise and clear results can be achieved using a CO₂ laser or UV laser.
- Ceramics Ceramics used in the industrial and medical sector can be laser marked with high durability.
The Most Suitable Laser: UV Laser or CO₂ Laser
4. Wood and Organic Materials
Organic materials such as wood, leather, paper and cardboard are well suited for laser marking.
- MDF, Plywood, Solid Wood: Used for decoration, furniture and souvenirs.
- Leather: Ideal for marking on products such as bags, wallets and shoes.
- Paper and Cardboard: Preferred for packaging and promotional products.
The Most Suitable Laser: CO₂ Laser
5. Fabric and Textile Materials
Laser marking is used to create patterns or make cuts in fabrics and textiles.
- Cotton, Polyester, Felt: Especially used in the clothing and promotional sector.
- Leather and Artificial Leather: Widespread in the production of custom design bags, wallets and belts.
The Most Suitable Laser: CO₂ Laser
Which Laser Type is Suitable for Which Material?
| Material Type | Most Suitable Laser Type |
|---|---|
| Metal (Steel, Aluminum, Titanium) | Fiber Laser |
| Plastics and Polymers | UV Laser, CO₂ Laser |
| Glass and Ceramics | UV Laser, CO₂ Laser |
| Wood, Leather, Paper | CO₂ Laser |
| Fabrics and Textiles | CO₂ Laser |
Advantages of Laser Marking
- Permanent and Durable Marking: Resistant to chemical or physical abrasion.
- Non-Contact Process: No mechanical pressure or scraping required, no surface damage.
- High Speed and Precision: Suitable for mass production.
- Environment Friendly: Minimizes the use of chemicals.
Laser marking is an effective method on a wide range of materials such as metal, plastic, glass, wood and textiles. By choosing the right type of laser, it is possible to achieve the highest quality.
If you are looking for the most suitable laser marking system for industrial production, you should consider your material type and production needs.
