What is Laser Engraving and How Does it Work?

Laser engraving uses lasers to mark or engrave objects. It is a very exact process and can be very technical. Often, the process requires a computer. The computer system would be used to drive the laser head.How Does Laser Engraving Work?

Most laser engraving work is done by a laser engraving machine. The machine has a laser, surface and a controller.

There are three types of engraving machines.

The most commonly used one is the X-Y table. This table is stationary and the laser moves in an X and Y fashion to do the drawing. Sometimes, there are exceptions. Then the engraving machine is used specifically for odd-shaped surfaces, in the promotional products world there are many odd shaped branded items!

The laser then can be turned on and off to produce the right image. The third machine has the surface and laser stationary. Then, galvo mirrors will reflect the beam onto the table. It can be done in raster and vector mode.

The point where the laser touches the surface is the focal point. Only this point is affected by the laser. The surface under the laser changes and thus creates the engraving. If the surface is vaporised, blowers are need to remove fumes and also the debris.

How Does Laser Engraving Work?The laser is efficient because the beam can be focused to do the engraving process. The controller can be programmed to engrave a variety of patterns or logos.

 

The trace is programmed to achieve the removal depth of the material. It also controls the speed of the laser which is needed to create engraved patterns.

A good reason why laser engraving is used so much is the production line. The laser is directed towards a vibrating mirror. The mirror moves to trace out characters onto the surface. Laser engraving is faster than hot stamping and pad printing.

Some surfaces have different heights, so the auto focus system is used. This means the laser’s parameters are changed constantly, letting the beam adapt to these changes. The auto focus system needs work with pilot beams or lasers, such as infrared, ultrasound and visible light.

Only a few types of material can be used for laser engraving. They are natural materials, such as lumber, coated and uncoated metals, stone, plastic and glass

Some of the Promotional Products that can be laser engraved are the following:

Laser engraving is very versatile and can be adapted to nealy any material.  With differing effects.

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