Laser Marking for Product Traceability
WHAT IS LASER MARKING?
Laser marking uses a laser to create permanent marks such as part origin, date of manufacture, serial numbers, inspection marks, assembly instructions, logos, and barcodes. These marks are crucial for part identification, authenticity, and product traceability, helping manufacturers maintain compliance with strict regulations and enhance their branding.
GT SCHMIDT's laser marking machines provide precise traceability solutions that can be tailored to various industries and specific part requirements. We offer class I certified enclosure systems and open-source laser components with a range of laser sources, including fiber, diode, YVO4, UV, Green, and CO2 lasers. Our machines come with standard accessories and custom options to support your marking needs.
Wondering if laser marking is right for you? Contact GT SCHMIDT to discuss your marking application and determine the best solution for your needs.
Is laser marking the right approach for your product identification and traceability needs? Learn more about laser marking below or contact us to discuss your marking application. We'll help you find the best marking solution for your exact needs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR LASER MARKING SOLUTIONS
Advantages of Laser Marking:
- Produces extremely accurate and detailed markings
- Marks are resistant to wear, heat, and chemicals
- Reduces risk of damage to the part being marked
- Rapid marking process increases production efficiency
- Can mark various materials (metals, plastics, ceramics, glass)
- Less wear and tear on the equipment
Why Manufacturers Choose Laser Marking:
- Creates clear and legible marks for traceability and branding
- Suitable for diverse applications and industries
- Reduces long-term costs due to durability and low maintenance
- Easily integrates into automated production lines
- No need for inks, chemicals, or consumables
- Capable of creating intricate designs and variable data
Do you want to see how well a laser can mark your parts? Request a free, no obligation sample mark!
ANSWERS TO COMMON LASER MARKING QUESTIONS
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF LASER MARKING?
Lasers can quickly produce marks that are less than 0.005 inches deep (deeper marks are possible though those take more time). They are capable of producing a wide range of different kinds of marks, some of which can be made without weakening or damaging the material being marked. This can be especially important when you need to mark parts and surfaces that are thin or sensitive.
Additionally, lasers can produce high resolution, detailed marks of different colors, making this marking technology the most aesthetically dynamic and pleasing marking technology available.
WHAT KIND OF PARTS AND MATERIAL ARE BEST FOR LASER MARKING?
Lasers are capable of marking a wide variety of different materials, including:
- metal
- plastic
- glass
- ceramics
- wood
- leather
CAN I MARK ON ROUND AND FLAT PARTS WITH A LASER MARKER?
Lasers are able to mark both flat and round parts.
To mark flat parts, the laser lens simply needs to be set a certain distance away from the surface of the part being marked (that distance is determined by the laser and lens being used). The flat sides of a round part are marked the same way.
To mark around the diameter of a round part, we offer rotary chucks that can hold and turn the part during the marking process to get the best mark.
IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LASER ENGRAVING MACHINES AND LASER MARKING MACHINES?
"Laser engraving machines" and "laser marking machines" are often used interchangably. Laser marking is a general term for using a laser to mark a part or material. Laser engraving is a specific type of laser mark. To engrave, a laser must generate enough heat to displace material in a part, creating noticeable depth in the mark. But laser marking machines can do more than just engrave. They can also create permanent marks through annealing (aka heat marks), etching, and carbonization. The appropriate type of laser marking process used for a permanent mak depends on several factors including the material being marked, the required marking depth, if the part will be exposed to harsh conditions, manufacturer industry standards, and if the mark must be corrosion-resistant.
To learn more about the different kinds of laser marks, request a free copy of The Ultimate Beginner's Guide To Laser Marking.
need a custom solution?
Our in-house design and engineering department has a full range of services and support to ensure that your industrial automation project is successful.
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.
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