Laser Etching / Laser Ablation
WHAT IS LASER ETCHING?
Laser etching (also known as laser ablation) is a permanent form of engraving in which very little material is displaced by using a laser machine. Marking depth for a laser etching application can be as little as 0.0001 of an inch. Usually, the process removes a coating layer from the base material, such as an anodized layer from metal.
If the material and coating are different colors, laser etching will create a high-contrasting mark that can be very appealing and easy to see. Oftentimes, the laser itself is causing the reaction and creates a heat mark without disturbing the surface of the material. Additionally, laser etching is quite durable being able to withstand non-abrasive treatments, such as e-coating, powder coating, and heat treating.
What types of material can be laser etched?
Laser etching is best done on bare or plated metals, lacquer-coated material, and special layering films.
WHAT TYPE OF LASER SOURCES ARE USED FOR LASER ETCHING?
Fiber Lasers and CO2 lasers are the best options for laser etching.
WHICH INDUSTRIES OR APPLICATIONS USE LASER ETCHING?
The high-contrast, minimum-depth marks of laser etching is commonly used for logos and tracking and serial numbers in many industries including automotive, aerospace, electronics, firearms, and packaging.
need a custom solution?
Our in-house design and engineering department has a full range of services and support to ensure that your marking application is successful.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Why GT SCHMIDT?
At GT SCHMIDT, we design, build, and implement marking solutions that help manufacturers leave a lasting mark on their products, their companies, and their industries.
Learn More About Us
made in usa since 1895
125 years of experience
installation & follow-up support
