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Top Laser Marking Machine Manufacturer | Laser Marker Factory

Laser marking machines use a focused laser beam to mark the surface of the material permanently; laser markers can change the material’s colour through processes such as ablation, chemical alternation, foaming, melting, etc. They are widely used in marking paint, spray coating and oxide layers, especially for laserable materials.

HANTENCNC’s laser marking machines can adjust laser parameters according to different materials, ensuring high-quality, efficient marking. The advantages of HANTENCNC’s laser markers include no consumables, no pollution, no heat effects and no material burning issues.

HANTENCNC is a professional China laser marking machine manufacturer with 19 years of expertise in designing and manufacturing laser machines for marking. Now, we offer fibre laser marking machines, UV laser marking machines, CO2 laser marking machines, MOPA laser marking machines and customized laser marking machines catering to various applications.

HANTENCNC’s laser marking machines are CE and FDA-certified, and we provide a 2-year warranty for laser source, a 1-year warranty for the whole machine, free sample testing, OEM customization, remote guidance, and lifelong after-sales support. If you need a cost-effective laser marker, feel free to contact our sales team now!

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Fiber Laser Marking Machines

Fiber laser marking machines are used to mark all types of metals. These include gold, silver, copper, iron, aluminum, ABS, and PVC plastics.

Our fiber laser marking machines are known for their no-consumables, maintenance-free operation, energy-saving, and power efficiency.

UV Laser Marking Machines

The wavelength of UV laser is usually around 355 nanometers. Short-wavelength lasers have higher photon energy, which enables them to directly destroy the chemical bonds of materials with minimal thermal impact. This feature makes cold processing one of the core advantages of UV laser marking machines.

Cold processing technology is one of the core advantages of UV laser marking machines. Cold processing achieves high-precision, heat-free marking, and the marking effect is smooth and clear. It directly processes materials through high-energy photons to achieve high-precision, heat-free marking. This feature is very suitable for marking applications with strict surface quality requirements.

UV laser marking machines are suitable for marking various materials, such as plastic, PVC, and glass. They can perform ultra-fine marking. They are ideal for ultra-fine marking applications like 3C electronics, food packaging, wires, lamps, leather, and pharmaceutical packaging materials. Due to their precise and high-quality marking effects, they are the first choice for people with stringent requirements for laser marking.

CO2 Laser Marking Machines

CO2 laser marking machines are suitable for marking a wide range of non-metallic materials and metal products. These include leather, wood, paper, ABS, PVC, epoxy resin, acrylic, glass, ceramics, rubber, bamboo, etc.

CO2 laser marking machines are widely used in plastics, textiles, leather, woodworking, handicrafts, electronic components, glasses, printing, pharmaceuticals, food packaging, automobile filters, and other non-metallic industries.

MOPA Laser Marking Machines

Due to the narrow width of the laser beam, the MOPA laser marking machine can achieve finer marking results. It is especially in applications requiring delicate patterns or high precision, such as metal surface color marking, mobile phone case back shells blackening, white plastic blackening, HDM black plastic whitening, thin plate de-layering, and anodized aluminum blackening.

MOPA laser markers can make fine, clear, durable, and permanent marks by removing surface layers or layers without damaging the underlying material.

Difference Between These Four Marking Laser Machines

 
Laser Source
Applicable Materials
Application Areas
Fiber Laser Marking Machines
Fibre laser
All metallic materials and some non-metallic materials (metals, plastics, ceramics, glass).
Auto parts, electronic products, tools, jewelry, and other industries.
 
UV Laser Marking Machines
Ultraviolet laser
Sensitive to UV light, such as leather, plastics, and glass.
Medical devices, electronic chips, and precision instruments.
CO2 Laser Marking Machines
CO2 laser tube
Non-metallic materials (paper, wood, cloth) and some metal materials
Paper products, wood products, and leather products.
Mopa Laser Marking Machines
MOPA laser
Plastics, ceramics, metals
Have high requirements for color, contrast, details, etc.

Why Choose HANTENCNC As Your China Laser Marking Machine Manufacturer?

laser marker machine

Technical Expertise

As a professional laser marking machine supplier, HANTENCNC has deep technical expertise and experience in laser marking systems. HANTENCNC can design and manufacture high-quality laser marking equipment. Our team consists of experienced engineers and technicians. They are all familiar with laser technology and associated marking applications.

laser marking machine company

Market Reputation And Credibility

HANTENCNC has a good reputation in the laser marking industry. It will be an advantage for us. We have established long-term cooperative relationships with many customers. They recognized us very well and were willing to work with us again.

laser marking machine company

Excellent Quality and Performance

We own our laser marking machine factory, we focus on product quality and performance. Our laser markers uses high-quality components and materials. They are tested and verified through a rigorous quality control process. They have efficient marking capabilities, stable performance, and reliable operation.

Diverse Applications

As a leading professional laser marking machine manufacturer based in China, HANTENCNC offers a comprehensive product line designed to meet the diverse needs of customers of all sizes. Our range of marking laser machines comes in various models and configurations, ensuring that we can cater to a wide range of requirements.

Laser Marking Machine Applications & Videos

Fiber Laser Marking Machine for Deep Engraving

Fiber Laser Marking Machine excels in deep engraving applications, offering precision and versatility for a wide range of materials. With its advanced technology, it enables intricate and durable markings, perfect for deep engraving tasks such as serial numbers, logos, or intricate designs on various surfaces. Whether for industrial parts marking, artistic creations, or personalized gifts, our fiber laser markers for deep engraving delivers unmatched performance and reliability.

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Fiber Laser Marking Machine for Deep and Surface Etching

Our Fiber Laser Marking Machines ensure precise and permanent markings for both deep and surface etching applications on metals, plastics and ceramics.

Because the non-contact marking process minimizes material distortion, fiber laser marking is a perfect solution for delicate surfaces and various deep and surface etching applications.

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Fiber Laser Marking Machine for Ring Engraving

HANTENCNC is a leading supplier of professional fiber laser marking machines. Our specialized fiber laser marking machines for ring engraving are fully customizable to meet the unique requirements of our customers.

We offer customized fiber laser marking equipment tailored to individual needs, including parameters such as workbench size, laser power, and marking speed. Our machines are designed to ensure optimal production efficiency and exceptional marking results.

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UV Laser Marking Machines for Marking Plastics

UV Laser Marking Machines are mainly used for marking plastic. UV laser markings can create long-lasting marks on plastic surfaces that are highly resistant to wear and light exposure.

UV laser marking machines can achieve high-speed processing, which is suitable for mass production requirements. They are an ideal choice for marking plastic materials.

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UV Laser Marking Machines for Security Seal

Our UV Laser Marking Machines offer precise and durable marking solutions for security seals. Using advanced UV laser technology, we ensure clear and permanent markings resistant to tampering and environmental conditions. With high-speed processing capabilities, our machines are ideal for large-scale production. 

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UV Laser Marking Machines for Glass

UV laser marking machines use advanced UV laser technology to accurately and permanently mark glass.

This type of marking machine is commonly used in industries such as beverages, cosmetics, and daily necessities for brand recognition and traceability.

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CO2 Laser Marking Machines for Wood

HantenCNC CO2 laser marking machines are able to permanently mark designs, logos, and text on wooden surfaces with high precision and high speed.  

Whether it's custom furniture, wood gifts or crafts, our marking technology can meet your needs.

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CO2 Laser Marking Machines for Leather

HantenCNC CO2 laser marking machines for leather are environmentally friendly and efficient. With CO2 laser marking, logos, text, patterns or other designs can be accurately engraved on the surface of the leather without damaging the surface of the leather.

Our CO2 laser marking machines have a wide range of applications in leather marking, such as leather bags, belts, footwear, clothing and other leather products.

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CO2 Laser Marking Machines for Marking Paper

HantenCNC CO2 laser marking machine is suitable for paper marking design. Its advanced laser technology ensures that the marking effect is exquisite and clear, not easy to fade, and is suitable for a variety of application needs such as gift packaging, business cards, paper labels, etc.

Choose this CO2 laser marking machine, you will get an efficient, accurate and professional paper marking experience.

 
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MOPA Laser Marking Machines for Color Marking on Metals

HANTENCNC's MOPA laser marking machines are widely used for creating high-definition color markings, such as logos, text, or patterns, on various metal surfaces without damaging the metal's surface. 
 
By adjusting laser parameters such as pulse width and frequency, MOPA laser marking machines can create different colored marks on metal surfaces, including black, white, blue, and more.

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FAQs About Laser Marker Machines

CO2 and UV laser marking machines differ in wavelength range, applicable materials, marking efficiency, and purchase cost. The following will provide a detailed explanation and comparison of these four aspects. Hoping to help you choose the marking machine that suits you.

1. CO2 vs. UV : Wavelength Range

The principle behind CO₂ and UV laser marking machines lies in the use of light wavelengths, with the key difference being that the two lasers operate at different wavelengths.

Ultraviolet laser and CO2 laser wavelengths

The human eye can see light within the range of 380 to 750 nanometers. Light with wavelengths below 380 nanometers is classified as ultraviolet (UV) light, while wavelengths above 750 nanometers fall into the infrared spectrum.

Generally, the energy of a photon is directly proportional to its frequency and inversely proportional to its wavelength. This means that shorter wavelengths carry higher energy than longer wavelengths. As shown in the figure, UV light has a shorter wavelength and therefore higher energy. The wavelength of light produced by CO2 lasers is around 10.6 microns (10,600 nanometers), which is nearly ten times the wavelength of standard near-infrared solid-state lasers and far exceeds the infrared range, resulting in lower energy.

The principle behind CO2 and UV laser marking machines is based on the varying laser absorption rates of different materials at different wavelengths. This variation determines how the laser interacts with the material, enabling efficient and precise marking effects.

2. CO2 vs. UV : Applicable Materials

2.1 Marking on Metal

CO2 Laser Marking Machines: Due to the long wavelength of the CO2 laser and the low absorption rate of metals for this wavelength, marking metal materials may not be feasible.

UV Laser Marking Machines: Capable of making fine markings on metal surfaces, but UV lasers are not suitable for deep engraving. However, high-power UV laser markers can achieve clear marking and cutting on metal sheets without causing deformation.

2. CO2 vs. UV : Applicable Materials

2.1 Marking on Metal

CO2 Laser Marking Machines: Due to the long wavelength of the CO2 laser and the low absorption rate of metals for this wavelength, marking metal materials may not be feasible.

UV Laser Marking Machines: Capable of making fine markings on metal surfaces, but UV lasers are not suitable for deep engraving. However, high-power UV laser markers can achieve clear marking and cutting on metal sheets without causing deformation.

2.2 Marking on Plastic

CO2 Laser Marking Machines: It can mark most plastic materials, but there are two important points to consider. First, CO2 laser markers mark by burning the plastic surface, resulting in less delicate marks compared to UV marking machines. Second, due to the long wavelength of the CO2 laser, it may struggle to color mark on dark plastics.

UV Laser Marking Machines: With minimal thermal impact on plastics, UV lasers are ideal for marking heat-sensitive materials, ensuring no deformation during processing. Additionally, UV lasers enhance the sophistication and aesthetics of plastic surfaces, achieving high-quality marking effects.

CO2 laser marking machine for plastic
UV laser marking machine for plastic marking 3

2.3. Marking on Leather

CO2 Laser Marking Machines: The CO2 laser marking machine engraves leather surfaces by burning them. For dark leather, CO2 laser marker provide deep, clear marks, making them ideal for high-volume production. On light-colored leather, smoke is generated during marking, which can adhere to the surface. While this residue can be easily wiped off, it may slightly impact marking efficiency.

UV Laser Marking Machines: UV lasers are well absorbed by leather, enabling high-precision marking on leather surfaces. This makes UV laser marking machines particularly suitable for high-end custom leather products.

 2.4. Marking on Wood

CO2 Laser Marking Machines: The primary application of a CO2 laser marking machine is marking wood. Wood absorbs the CO2 laser's wavelength effectively, allowing for quick and efficient marking with varying depths and effects. The resulting patterns or text have high contrast and are clearly visible.

CO2 laser marking machine marking on wood
CO2 laser marking machine for wood 7

UV Laser Marking Machines: UV laser markers can mark wood, but they are limited to delicate and clear shallow markings, making them unsuitable for deep engraving. For deeper marks, a CO2 laser marking machine is the better option.

 2.5. Marking on Paper

CO₂ Laser Marking Machines: Paper materials effectively absorb the CO2 laser's wavelength, allowing for precise marking of complex patterns and text. This makes it ideal for marking patterns, text, and barcodes on paper packaging and labels. It is also well-suited for creating paper greeting cards, paper-cut artwork, and similar applications.

UV Laser Marking Machines: The UV laser marking machine can achieve fine and high-contrast markings on paper and cartons. It is particularly suitable for marking intricate patterns and detailed text.

CO2 laser marking machine for paper cutting5
CO2 laser marking machine for paper cutting

2. 6. Marking on Fabric

CO₂ Laser Marking Machines: The CO2 laser operates at a wavelength of 10,640 nanometers, achieving precise burning and processing when directed onto fabric surfaces. As a thermal processing technology, the CO2 laser marking machine can engrave intricate patterns on fabrics by precisely controlling the power, making it widely used in mass production within the textile industry.

UV Laser Marking Machines: UV lasers markers are rarely used for fabric marking. Instead, machines like the CO2 laser markers, which better match the characteristics of fabrics, are typically chosen for these applications.

CO2 laser marking machine for fabric marking 2

 2.7. Marking on Glass

CO2 Laser Marking Machines: The CO₂ laser can ablate the glass surface at high temperatures, creating shallow engravings or white marks. It is suitable for large-area marking, especially on colored glass. However, it is crucial to control the laser's power and speed to prevent cracking due to excessive heat.

UV Laser Marking Machines: The UV laser marking machine can achieve high-precision markings on most types of glass and can create an elegant frosting effect to enhance the product's high-end appearance. However, it may not be suitable for marking on dark or tinted glass, high UV absorption glass, surface-coated glass, laminated glass, or low-quality or uneven glass.

Laser Type

Wavelength(nm)

Applicable Materials

Application Examples

Marking Efficiency

CO₂ Laser

10600

Wood, Paper, Leather,
Acrylic,Fabric, Glass

Non-metal marking,
Cutting.Engraving

Efficiently marks various
non-metallic materials at a high speed

UV Laser

355

Glass, Plastic,
Ceramic, Metal

High-precision marking,
Electronics components

Precise control of the marking effect and minimizes thermal
impact on the material

3. CO2 vs. UV: Marking Efficiency

CO2 Laser Marking Machines: CO2 lasers typically offer higher power output when marking non-metallic materials, enabling them to deliver more energy in a shorter time, thereby improving processing efficiency.

If you need to mark non-metallic materials in large batches or across a large area, a CO2 laser marking machine is recommended.

UV Laser Marking Machines: UV laser marking machines generally operate at a slower speed compared to CO2 laser marking machines. UV laser markers rely on photo chemical reactions, using high-energy photons to break molecular bonds and perform "cold processing." This method allows for precise control of the marking effect and minimizes thermal impact on the material, but often at the cost of processing speed. It’s important to note that the marking effect and efficiency of both types of machines can vary based on the material, marking details, and laser power.

4. CO2 vs. UV: Price Comparison

While CO2 laser marking machines generally come at a slightly lower price point than UV marking machines, the decision should go beyond cost considerations. The key is to choose the laser source that best meets your product's marking requirements.

CO2 laser marking machines excel at marking a variety of non-metallic materials, such as wood, paper, and leather. On the other hand, UV lasers, with their shorter wavelength and higher photon energy, offer more precise processing. They produce clearer marks on materials like glass, ceramics, and certain plastics, all without causing thermal damage.

Though CO2 laser marking machines may be more cost-effective, the final decision should be based on your specific industry, material properties, and the desired marking effect.

We hope this information proves helpful! If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to contact us.

There are three types of laser marking machines that we often see on the market: fiber laser marking machine, CO2 laser marking machine, and UV laser marking machine. How should we choose among these three laser marking machines?

Choose based on marking precision:

Fiber Laser Marking Machine:

Fiber laser marking machine is known for its high precision. It uses fiber laser with a wavelength of 1064 nanometers. It can complete fine and complex marking tasks.

Commonly used for marking on metal and some non-metal materials. Very small character heights and widths are often achieved. Theoretically, the minimum character height can reach 0.1 mm or even less, depending on the marking material and the spot diameter after laser focus.

Because the wavelength of fiber laser is near-infrared light, compared with UV laser, the wavelength is longer and its photon energy is lower, so marking still depends on part of the thermal effect. However, the thermal impact of the fiber laser marking machine is less than that of the CO₂ laser marking machine, unlike the CO2 laser marking machine that almost completely burns the mark at high temperature during marking.

Since the thermal impact of the fiber laser marking machine is relatively small, the marking process causes minimal damage to the material, ensuring clarity and durability of the mark. In addition, the high precision of fiber laser marking machines makes them ideal for applications that require detailed marking, such as electronic components, precision instruments, jewelry, etc.

 

fiber laser marking machine marking on metal (6)
fiber laser marking machine marking on metal (25)

CO2 Laser Marking Machine:

The CO2 laser operates at a wavelength of 10.6 microns (10600 nm), which is much longer than that of infrared light. Due to the long wavelength, the spot size of CO2 laser marking machine is relatively large. And the marking accuracy can generally reach about ±0.1 mm in theory. Although the accuracy is lower than other types of laser marking machines, it can still achieve high-quality markings on most non-metal materials.

Why does a longer wavelength result in a larger spot size?

According to the spot size formula:

φD = 1.83 * λ * θ / Spot diameter, where λ is the wavelength and θ is the focal length of the lens.

Suppose the laser's input spot diameter is 8 mm, the wavelength is 0.00106 mm, and the focal length of the lens is 160 mm. The calculated focused spot size would theoretically be 0.039 mm.

However, during actual marking, the spot size often appears much larger, sometimes even reaching 1-2 mm. This is because the CO2 laser's longer wavelength results in greater thermal impact on the material, leading to excessive melting.

But why does a longer wavelength lead to excessive melting?

According to the energy formula: E = hc / λ, where E is photon energy and λ is wavelength.

From the formula, it can be seen that the wavelength increases, the photon energy decreases. CO2 lasers have longer wavelengths and thus lower photon energy. The lower energy is insufficient to directly break material bonds, so CO2 lasers primarily mark by heating and burning the material surface.

Generally, plastics, rubbers, and other flexible materials are greatly affected by heat, while glass and hard wood are less affected by heat.

Can thermal impact be reduced?
Yes, by using shorter wavelength lasers, such as UV lasers with a wavelength of 355 nm.

CO2 laser marking machine marking on wood
CO2 laser marking machine for wood15

UV Laser Marking Machine:

The wavelength of UV lasers is only 355 nm, making it the shortest wavelength among commonly used industrial lasers, and just one-third the wavelength of CO2 lasers. Because of the shorter wavelength, the focused spot of UV lasers is extremely small. With the same laser input spot diameter and lens focal length as a CO2 laser, the theoretical focused spot diameter is around 0.013 mm, which is also about one-third the size of a CO2 laser's spot.

As we discussed earlier, the longer the wavelength, the greater the thermal impact on the material; the shorter the wavelength, the less thermal impact. Therefore, when marking materials like plastics, rubber, and glass with a 355 nm UV laser, excessive melting is unlikely to occur.

For example, when using a UV laser marking machine to mark the surface of a phone charger, even though the font height on the charger is only about 1 mm, the markings remain very clear.

UV laser marking machine has very high marking accuracy. On the one hand, its small and concentrated focused spot makes it very suitable for processing materials that require high precision, such as semiconductors, precision devices, medical plastics, etc. On the other hand, since UV laser is a "cold processing" method, it has little thermal impact on the material, so it can be marked without damaging the surface of the material.

Choose based on marking materials:

Fiber Laser Marking Machine:

The fiber laser marking machine is primarily used for marking metal materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and iron. Fiber lasers can also be used to mark certain hard plastics like ABS and PVC, as these materials can effectively absorb the wavelength of the fiber laser. Using a fiber laser marking machine to mark hard plastics can better maintain their shape under the action of high-energy lasers and reduce the risk of deformation or melting. In contrast, softer plastics are more heat-sensitive and are easily deformed, melted or burned by the high energy of fiber lasers.

CO2 Laser Marking Machine:

The CO2 laser marking machine is characterized in its application in the field of non-metallic materials marking, such as wood, paper, leather, acrylic and some plastic materials.It is worth mentioning that CO2 laser marking machine is very effective in marking wood. The marked pattern and text have high contrast and are clearly visible. Due to the longer wavelength of CO2 laser, it is very suitable for absorption by these non-metallic materials. CO2 laser marking machine can also engrave various complex patterns and designs on fabrics by precisely controlling the power, so it is also widely used in large-scale production in garment factories.

UV Laser Marking Machine:

UV laser marking machine has a relatively small thermal impact on the material, and the wavelength is short and the photon energy is stronger. Therefore, UV laser marking machine is very suitable for marking heat-sensitive materials such as plastics, glass, ceramics, silicon wafers, etc., especially in applications that require extremely high precision and details.

Because the light spot produced by UV laser is very small, it is very suitable for marking tiny parts. Such as electronic components, chips and integrated circuits.

When selecting the appropriate laser marking machine, the choice should primarily be based on the type of material. Fiber laser marking machines are typically used for metal materials. CO2 laser marking machines are suitable for non-metal materials such as wood and leather. And UV laser marking machines are ideal for heat-sensitive materials requiring high precision.

After receiving the goods, the warranty period for all fiber laser sources of HANTENCNC is 2 years, the warranty period for fiber laser marking machines is 1 year, and the warranty period for CO2 laser marking machines and UV laser marking machines is 1 year.
 
If the machine does not work during the warranty period, our technicians will assist in analyzing the problem, provide online technical support, and help you solve the problem. If any part of the laser marking machine is damaged during the warranty period, we will repair or replace the part for free.
 
For machines that are out of warranty, we will continue to offer free technical support. However, customers will need to pay for parts replacement and shipping.

Laser marking machines, with their efficient and non-contact processing methods, are widely used across various industries. Whether it’s to ensure product traceability, enhance brand value, or guarantee production quality and craftsmanship, the accuracy of laser marking is crucial.

fiber laser marking machine marking on metal (27)

1.What is Laser Marking?

Laser marking is a technology that uses high-energy laser beams to mark the surface of materials. The principle of laser marking involves focusing the laser beam to generate high temperatures on the material’s surface, causing physical or chemical changes, which result in permanent marks. Laser marking can engrave text, numbers, patterns, QR codes, barcodes, and more, making it applicable across a wide range of industries.

Characteristics and Advantages of Laser Marking:

High accuracy: Laser marking can achieve extremely fine lines and intricate patterns with high accuracy. It allows for precise marking in very small areas without affecting surrounding materials.

Permanence: The text and patterns created by laser marking do not fade or wear over time, ensuring that the marks remain clear and precise for long periods. It is resistant to wear and corrosion.

Non-Contact Marking: Laser marking is a non-contact process, meaning it does not physically touch the material’s surface, thus avoiding any unintended scratches or damage.

Wide Applicability: Laser marking machines can mark nearly any material, including metals, plastics, ceramics, glass, wood, leather, and more. Different types of lasers, such as fiber lasers, CO2 lasers, and UV lasers, can be selected for optimal marking on different materials.

High Efficiency and Environmental Friendliness: Since laser marking does not require chemicals or inks, the process is very clean and environmentally friendly. Compared to traditional marking methods, laser marking is faster and more efficient, making it suitable for rapid marking in mass production.

Fiber Laser Marking Machine for Deep Engraving - Sample Display6
UV laser marking machine for China sample 2
CO2 laser marking machine for wood15

2. Factors Affecting Laser Marking accuracy

2.1 Motion System and Control Software

Generally, the accuracy of laser marking is not related to the light source but is closely linked to the machine’s motion system and control software.

Let’s first understand what the motion system and control software entail.

The motion system of a laser marking machine primarily consists of a galvo scanner and an optical adjustment system, often referred to as the galvo system. The galvo scanner is an optical device composed of one or two high-speed oscillating mirrors and drivers. By adjusting the angle of the mirrors, the galvo scanner directs the laser beam along a predetermined path.

Control software converts the design or text to be marked into executable instructions for the galvo system. The software must precisely control the laser beam’s path, speed, power, and marking sequence.

Most common galvo systems are analog and feature open-loop control. Analog galvo systems are controlled by analog signals, typically voltage signals. The galvo mirrors adjust based on changes in voltage, guiding the laser beam’s direction. Open-loop control means the system does not use feedback to monitor or correct the galvo’s actual position. Here’s an example to illustrate this:

If the control software instructs a motor to move at a speed of 1000mm/s, the motor will start operating based on this command. However, in an open-loop control system, the controller does not monitor the motor’s actual speed or position. Therefore, whether the motor truly reaches 1000mm/s is unknown to the system.

High-accuracy galvo systems use digital galvos with closed-loop control. For example, if the control software commands a motor to move at 1000mm/s, the system will detect if the speed is below 1000mm/s and automatically compensate. This example focuses on speed as a marking parameter, but other parameters, such as corner delay, pause time, and endpoint compensation, are also adjusted. The system continuously monitors and adjusts in real-time to ensure actual operations match the intended instructions.

2.2 Laser System Parameters

Laser Beam Quality: The quality of the laser beam is a critical factor in determining the accuracy of laser marking. A high-quality laser beam has a small divergence angle, which means it spreads less as it travels and forms a smaller spot size. This concentration of energy allows the marking machine to achieve finer, more intricate characters and patterns.

Spot Diameter: The spot diameter refers to the smallest point the laser beam can be focused to after passing through the focusing lens. In actual marking, a smaller spot diameter means the laser’s energy is more concentrated, allowing for finer line widths in characters or patterns, thereby enabling smaller and more precise markings.

Laser Power: The power and pulse frequency of the laser also impact marking accuracy. Excessive power or mismatched frequency can cause the material to over-melt or char, affecting the clarity of the marking lines and the accuracy of the edges. Conversely, too low power may result in insufficient marking depth, failing to meet the desired marking requirements.

Pulse Frequency: Higher pulse frequency can lead to smoother and more refined marking results. However, because high-frequency pulses emit laser energy at shorter intervals, the energy per pulse is lower, which can affect the depth and accuracy of the material processing. Lower pulse frequencies can ensure marking depth since each pulse carries more energy. However, because the laser interacts with the material for a longer time, more heat is absorbed, potentially enlarging the heat-affected zone and causing the surrounding material to expand or melt, thus impacting marking accuracy.

the light of fiber laser marking machine

2.3 Material Characteristics

Different material properties also affect the accuracy of the laser marking process.

Thermal Conductivity and Sensitivity: The accuracyof marking is closely related to the material, especially those with high thermal conductivity or sensitivity. During the marking process, the heat can cause local melting or softening, with heat spreading to the surrounding area. This heat spread can lead to a marking line width that exceeds the theoretical value, creating a mark wider than the laser spot diameter.

For example, when using a fiber laser marking machine to mark aluminum alloy, a metal with high thermal conductivity, if the target line width is 0.1mm (theoretically the spot diameter), the metal in the marking area will melt, but the surrounding area may also soften or melt due to thermal conduction, resulting in a mark wider than the intended 0.1mm, potentially reaching 0.15mm or more.

High Reflectivity Materials: Some materials reflect a significant amount of laser energy, reducing the effective energy on the material’s surface and affecting marking accuracy. For example, copper has particularly high reflectivity, especially at the wavelength commonly used by fiber lasers (1064nm), where the reflectivity can exceed 80%. Therefore, when marking high-reflectivity metals like copper, it is advisable to use a UV laser marking machine. UV lasers, with a typical wavelength of 355nm, fall in the ultraviolet spectrum and are more readily absorbed by high-reflectivity materials like copper. Additionally, UV laser marking employs "cold marking" technology, which has minimal thermal effects on the material, resulting in finer and more precise marks.

Material Color: Generally, darker materials absorb laser energy more effectively, especially with visible and near-infrared lasers, and scatter less light, resulting in clearer and more precise marks. Conversely, lighter materials have higher reflectivity to laser energy. For example, CO2 laser marking on leather: CO2 lasers can quickly achieve deep marking on dark leather, making them suitable for large-scale production. However, on light-colored leather, the marking process may produce smoke that adheres to the leather's surface. Although this smoke can be easily wiped off, it may slightly affect marking efficiency.

Material Thickness: The thickness of the material significantly impacts laser marking accuracy. Thicker materials may require higher laser power and multiple passes to achieve the desired effect, especially when marking intricate patterns or fine lines. Thinner materials must be carefully handled to avoid deformation or melting due to the laser's thermal effects. Regardless of material thickness, selecting the appropriate marking machine and adjusting the laser parameters are crucial for ensuring clear and precise marking results.

The factors affecting the accuracy of laser marking are interrelated. While the motion system and control software are core determinants, laser system parameters, mechanical stability, and material characteristics also significantly influence the final marking outcome.

Laser marking machines generally do not require much maintenance. However, following the recommendations in the user manual can effectively extend the life of the equipment. For instance, you can regularly clean the lens, check whether the cooling system is operating normally, and ensure that the power supply and connection are stable.

Here, we have some tips for daily maintenance of laser marking machines:

  • Check whether the field lens is dirty. If it is indeed a little dirty, you can wipe it with a cleaning paper suitable for wiping optical equipment.
  • The galvanometer is a precision optical component, so it is very sensitive to external magnetic fields and electrical currents. Therefore, please keep it away from environments with strong magnetic and electrical interference and high currents.
  • Ensure the focus position of the laser beam is within the standard range recommended in the operation guide to maintain precise marking results.
  • Ensure the guide rails of the lifting column are stable and lubricated to avoid abnormal operation of the marking machine due to friction or looseness
  • Maintain a dry and ventilated working environment for the laser marking machine.

If the laser marking machine has a problem that you cannot solve, feel free to contact us at any time for inspection and assistance in repair.

There are three types of commonly used laser sources of laser marking machines: fiber lasers, CO2 lasers, and UV lasers. The actual lifespan of these three lasers will be affected by the frequency of use, the application environment, and subsequent maintenance.

The following lifespans are estimated under normal operating conditions:

Fiber laser

Time: The design life of a fiber laser can reach 100,000 hours, and it can be used for about eight to ten years under normal operation. The expected lifespan of a fiber laser is longer than that of other gas-solid lasers.

Maintenance: The diode module in a fiber laser has a service life three times that of other laser technologies, which means that its core component: the pump diode is more durable than the components in traditional laser technology. Therefore, fiber lasers do not require frequent replacement and maintenance. More durable than CO2 and UV lasers.

Environmental adaptability: Fiber lasers have good heat dissipation and good stability in a variety of usage scenarios. Fiber lasers use optical fibers as gain media, and the slender fiber structure can provide a large surface area in a small volume, which helps to dissipate heat naturally. And the structure of fiber lasers is more robust and can withstand vibration and shock well. It can adapt to a wider range of operating environments.

Carbon dioxide laser

Time: CO2 lasers are usually designed to last up to 20,000 hours. Under normal operation, they can last for about three to four years.

Maintenance: CO2 lasers need to be checked and refilled regularly to ensure that the laser can output stably.

Environmental adaptability: CO2 lasers are more sensitive to ambient temperatures than fiber lasers. Because CO2 lasers are gas lasers, they use gases such as carbon dioxide as laser media. If the temperature is too high, it will affect the movement and density of gas molecules, and thus affect the accuracy and stability of laser generation.

Ultraviolet Laser

Time: UV lasers generally have a service life of 20,000 hours. Under normal operation, they can last for about two years.

Maintenance: UV lasers need to regularly maintain the optical path and lenses to avoid dust and powder accumulation that affects the marking quality.

Environmental adaptability: The optical components in UV lasers are very sensitive to temperature changes. Too high or too low temperatures can cause the optical components to expand or contract slightly, thus affecting the laser beam quality. Since the laser energy generated by the ultraviolet laser is strong and the focused spot is small, it is suitable for fine marking on a small area, so the requirements for the ambient temperature are more stringent.

Laser marking and laser engraving are different.

Although laser engravers and laser marking machines share similar principles and technologies—both use high-energy laser beams for non-contact material processing, but they differ in terms of marking range, speed, depth, and the types of materials they can work with.

gun samples - laser stippling machine
laser engraving sample

Marking Range

Laser marking machines typically have a smaller working area. The common marking range is between 100x100 mm and 300x300 mm.

The laser marking machine works by controlling the movement of the laser beam through galvanometer scanning, but the working range of the galvanometer is limited, so the marking area is relatively small. Due to this limitation, the positioning requirements for laser marking machines are stricter.

Laser engraving machines generally have a larger working area and can handle bigger materials. Unlike laser markers, laser engravers do not rely on a galvo scanning system; instead, they use rails to physically move the laser head. Therefore, through the mechanical movement back and forth, they can handle a larger marking range.

In short, the laser beam of the laser marking machine moves statically through the galvanometer system, so it is more suitable for small-scale high-precision marking. The laser head of the laser engraving machine moves dynamically on the mechanical rails, which can cover a larger range.

Marking Speed

Laser marking machines are faster and can complete a marking task in a few seconds. This is because laser marking machines use a galvo control system. During the marking process, the galvo guides the laser beam to move quickly on the X and Y axes by quickly adjusting the position of two reflectors.The moving speed of the laser marking machine can reach more than 20,000 mm per second.

In contrast, laser engraving machines are relatively slower. Engravers rely on mechanical guide rails to move the laser head along the X and Y axes. So this mechanical physical movement is much slower compared to the high-speed reflection of the laser beam in laser marking machines.

Compared with the laser marking machine, the speed of laser engraving is only a few hundred millimeters per second.

Marking Depth

Laser marking machines generally have a shallower marking depth, only creating surface marks on materials. For example, common barcodes, QR codes, and simple graphics and text on plastics. While some high-power fiber laser marking machines can achieve greater depths, they cannot match the depth achievable by laser engravers.

Laser engraving machines can usually achieve a greater engraving depth. They can remove more materials to achieve a deeper engraving effect.

However, it is important to note that while laser engravers excel in depth, laser markers can mark both metal and non-metal materials, whereas most laser engravers are mainly used for non-metal materials.

Marking Materials

Laser marking machines can work on a wider and more diverse range of materials. This is because the common laser sources used in laser marking machines include fiber lasers, CO2 lasers and UV lasers. These three types of lasers are suitable for different materials.

Fiber lasers are more suitable for marking metals and some non-metals. CO2 lasers are more suitable for marking non-metallic materials such as wood, paper, and wood. UV lasers are more suitable for marking glass, plastic, etc.

Most laser engraving machines can only mark wood. Because most laser engraving machines use CO2 lasers. CO2 lasers have poor absorption effects on metals, so they cannot be marked on metal materials.

Therefore, laser marking machines have an advantage in terms of material adaptability, as they can meet the marking needs of a wide variety of materials.

Support. We now have Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, Japanese, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Persian, Russian, and Thai.

We have our own laser marking machine factory. Before shipping, our sales manager will inspect the machine for you and send an inspection video. If you have specific requirements, we can also provide an online video demonstration to give you a more intuitive view of the machine's performance.

Windows 7, 10, and 11 OS are all available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.

Please let our sales manager know your marking materials and requirements, and they will recommend the most suitable machine for your needs.

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