Laser Etching

Laser etching is a process that creates marks on parts and products by melting their surface. It is part of the broader category called laser marking which also includes laser engraving and laser annealing. Highly versatile, it can be used with most metals.

To produce a raised mark, the laser beam delivers a high amount of energy to a small area. As a result, the surface of the material melts and expands. This can color the material in black, white or gray.

Etching is most commonly used to produce permanent markings such as data matrix codes, serial numbers, barcodes and logos.

• Very low stress on parts, which is ideal for pressure-sensitive parts
• Ability to transfer very detailed graphic images with complex artwork
• Strictest tolerances for size and location
• Extremely fast marking cycle time for high volume jobs
• Consistent repeatability of mark from part to part
• Ability to make light/frosted marks or dark marks
• Very complex fixtures to accommodate marking on multiple rounds, flats, hex, and planes in ONE operation which reduces the cost to the customer
• Versatile Part Materials: metal, plastic, glass, and wood
• Versatile Part Surfaces: Heat Treated, Anodized, Painted, Coated, or Light Sensitive
• Versatile Part Sizes: 0.020” up to 8 feet in length
• Depths from 0.0001” to 0.002”