What metal can be engraved with laser marking machine?
Modern equipment allows you to work with any kind of metal common in production. Metal for engraving can be divided into three groups: black, non-ferrous and noble metal. The most suitable materials for laser engraving include:
- steel;
- brass;
- aluminum;
- bronze;
- silver;
- gold;
- platinum.
Depending on the reflectivity of the metal, the equipment is selected with a certain type and power of the emitter. The higher the reflectivity the more powerful and reliable the emitter should be.
Each material, including metal, has its own characteristics and methods of engraving. We offer a closer look at each of them.
Marking or engraving?
Both types of metalworking can be done with a fiber laser machine. When engraving, the particles of the material are vaporized by the high temperature of a laser beam. Thus, an image is transferred in depth. Vaporizing occurs immediately, and with each repeated impulse of a laser beam, the image becomes deeper.
When marking, the material is melted, and an image is applied to the surface. This treatment slightly changes the metal surface properties. A laser beam affects the material and provokes oxidation, causing the surface of the material to change its hue. Marking is often used in jewelry workshops.
