Laser engraving and laser marking are two common techniques used in the field of customization and personalization.
Both methods involve using lasers to etch designs into a variety of materials, from metals to glass and plastics.
However, despite the similarities, there are some notable differences between the two technologies.
In this article, we'll explore the differences between laser engraving and laser marking so you can make an informed choice about which method is best for your specific needs.
Definition of Laser Engraving
Laser engraving is a process that uses a laser beam to remove surface material and create a permanent design. The technique is used to create designs on a variety of materials, including metal, glass, stone, leather, acrylic, and other types of plastic.
A laser beam is fired at the surface, burning or vaporizing the material to create the design.
The precision, accuracy and versatility of laser engraved materials make them ideal for creating intricate designs and logos, as well as inscriptions such as serial numbers and product codes. In fact, there are many different laser engraving ideas.
For example, laser engraving is often used in industries such as jewelry that require fine details, or in the production of machine parts that require durable and long-lasting markings.
The depth of engraving can be controlled, allowing shallow or deep designs to be created.
The end result of laser engraving is a permanent mark that will not wear or fade over time.
Definition of laser marking
Laser marking, on the other hand, is a process that uses a laser beam to alter the surface of a material rather than remove it. Laser beams create permanent marks on the surface of a material, usually by oxidizing or discoloring the material.
Laser marking is commonly used to mark items such as electronic components, medical devices and consumer goods.
The main advantage of laser marking over laser engraving is that it is a non-contact process, meaning that no physical contact is required with the material being marked. This makes laser marking a more efficient process for mass production as it does not cause any wear and tear on the material being marked.
Laser marking can also be used to create barcodes, QR codes and other types of identification marks.
The marks produced by laser marking are usually lighter than those produced by laser engraving, but they are still permanent and will not wear down over time.
Brands
The main types of laser marking include:
Annealing Laser Marking
Annealing laser marking uses high heat to change the color of metallic materials such as stainless steel, creating a permanent high-contrast mark.
Carbon Migration Laser Marking
Carbon migration laser marking uses high heat to move carbon from metallic materials to the surface, creating contrasting marks with a high level of detail.
Foam laser marking
Foam laser marking uses high heat to create small air bubbles within the plastic material, creating raised permanent marks on the surface.
Color laser marking
Color laser marking uses a high powered laser to change the color of certain materials, such as anodized aluminum, creating a permanent and highly visible mark.
Laser source