Description
Color Laser Marking Machine used to colored parts are commonly used for decorative applications in a wide range of consumer goods, and marking of these parts is generally achieved through the removal of the coloured anodised layer to reveal the base aluminium material either a white or silvery mark depending on process conditions. Commonly used in gift-ware and consumer goods, alphanumeric and marketing logos are typically marked.
The use of lasers for colour marking is not a particularly new technique as it has been recognized for over 10 years. This technique was originally identified as a viable process for use in craft metalwork and jewellery. However, the process has had a very little commercial impact in the intervening years. There is now a greater interest in this process as manufacturers of consumer goods are looking for new techniques and finishes to provide product differentiation. This application note looks at a variety of materials that are colour mark-able, including titanium and stainless steel, and explores the benefits and parameters of the pulsed fiber laser in relation to this application area.
Specification
Benefits:
- Significant improvement in the quality of the mark due to the stability and controllability of the laser source.
- Beam intensity and spot size enable the use of small mark widths.
- Output power stability over time enables complex mark patterns without power fluctuations – no weld defects.
- High power density allows large marking areas to be processed rapidly.
- Maintenance-free (no replaceable parts).
- 3-Dimensional marking can be easily achieved.
- A high repetition rate is achievable.
- Low frequency (<20 kHz) – control of heat input; the processing of thermally sensitive plastic can be controlled (increase in heat might cause the plastic to melt).
- Low M² – the depth of field is high.
Features:
- Integrated Cooling Solutions
- Enhanced Optical Tolerances Enable Plug and Play
- High Reliability/ Stability – Standard 1-year warranty
- Enhanced Interfaces can be used in combination
- For Greater Flexibility And Advanced Pulse Control
- Extended Hardware Control I/O
- Serial Control via RS-232 and Ethernet
- First And Last Pulse Equally Usable
- Bitmap Marking Compatible
- Status Monitoring And Safe Shut Down High-speed marking (MHz repetition rate)
This content was originally published on the SIL website.
