Laser Marking Systems / Laser Markers
Laser Marking Systems / Laser Markers
Product Lineup
MD-X laser markers are versatile, general-purpose systems for marking and processing a wide range of materials. These powerful hybrid marking systems boast an internal vision system, full-field autofocus and marking analytics tools.
MD-U UV laser markers are designed for high-contrast, damage-free marking applications. UV lasers excel at marking plastics, glass, and other heat-sensitive materials. The MD-U's marking head contains an embedded multi-function camera that can autofocus to a part, check-marking quality, and read 2D codes.
MD-F fiber laser markers are high-powered machines designed for deep engraving and high-speed processing. 3-Axis scanning and on-the-fly focal adjustments give the MD-F series a leg-up over conventional laser engravers.
ML-Z CO2 laser markers are incredibly versatile. They can mark opaque objects like paper, wood, rubber, ceramics, and transparent objects like glass. CO2 lasers are also used for gate cutting, drilling, and decapsulation.
MD-T green laser markers use an integrated telecentric lens to keep the laser beam perpendicular across the entire marking surface. This ensures micron-level marking and processing throughout the target area.
Simply put, laser markers use high-energy light to mark the surface of a part. Laser markers vary by the wavelength of light, and different wavelengths are optimized for marking and processing different materials.
The majority of industrial laser markers are YVO
4
lasers, fiber lasers, UV lasers, and CO
2
lasers.
Laser markers are used to permanently mark text, logos, barcodes, or 2D codes on parts in all industries. Common marking types include oxidizing, annealing, engraving, etching, discoloration, and processing.
Benefits of Laser Markers
Inkjet and pad-printing systems leave impermanent marks that can be rubbed off or fade away. Laser marking does not wear off or contaminate the product being marked.
Because laser markers use light to directly mark products, there is no need to purchase consumables, clean print heads, or perform other routine maintenance tasks that are necessary with conventional ink and label marking methods. This also helps reduce associated maintenance costs.
Typical systems can only mark in 2 dimensions (X and Y). KEYENCE laser markers have 3-axis beam control, allowing them to mark across a larger area, compensate for part variation, and correct for mounting restrictions with zero physical equipment adjustments.
Laser Marker / Laser Engraver Case Studies
Laser marking in the automotive industry
Safe products and safe working environments are critical in automotive manufacturing. There is a high demand for product traceability and process management on both metal and plastic parts, and laser markers are perfectly designed to meet those needs.
Laser marking in the electric vehicle industry
As the electrification of vehicles advances, the amount of on-board motors has increased and because these omponents are critical to the function of the vehicle, a wide variety of marking for traceability is performed on these parts.
Laser marking in the semiconductor industry
Electronic parts require high-quality and low-damage traceability. As part sizes continue to shrink, the demand for precision processing has increased. Laser markers are increasingly becoming the norm thanks to their small beam size and non-contact marking method.
Laser marking in the medical industry
The majority of medical instruments are small and undergo repeated disinfectant or sterilization processes. This section introduces and explains UDI medical marking applications on plastic and metal instruments.
Laser marking in the food / pharmaceutical industry
In recent years there has been a tendency to strengthen label-related regulations on a yearly basis. Due to an increasing need for serialization through unique marking on packaged items directly before shipping, there has been an increase in marking with lasers.
Laser marking on metal
Learn the principles of metal marking and see marks on aluminum, stainless steel, iron, copper, cemented carbide, and gold plating.
Laser marking on plastic
Learn the principles of plastic marking and see marks on a variety of materials such as ABS, epoxy, and PET.
Laser marking on other materials
This section describes the optimal laser marker for glass, paper, ceramics, PCBs, and other materials and provides marking examples.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Marking Systems / Laser Markers
Laser markers work by scanning a focused beam of high-energy light across the surface of a part in the desired pattern. Different contrast, depths, and surface finishes can be achieved depending on the laser wavelength and part material.
Laser marking causes discoloration on the surface of a part, whereas laser engraving actually removes material and "digs in" to a part.
Practically speaking: no. Laser etchers interact directly with the surface of a part, so the only real way to remove a laser mark is to remove the material it's on.
With a variety of different models and wavelengths, KEYENCE laser markers can mark a wide range of materials. These include materials such as metal, plastic, glass, ceramic, wood, and rubber. There are even more materials than listed that can be marked but some have been shown to emit harmful gases. In this event, proper guarding and fume extraction should be used to provide a safe operating environment.
When choosing the correct laser marking system for your business many factors should be taken into consideration. Throughout this process, you should evaluate all laser marking models to determine the proper wavelength, wattage, marking field of view, and safety requirements. Below are the main factors:
・
Materials
– this will narrow down laser marking models by wavelength.
・
Time allowed for marking
– with marking time you can determine wattage.
・
Marking Style/Setup
– whether it is a large logo or a matrix of small text this will determine the marking field of view.
・
Integration style
– safety is always a priority so inline vs offline solutions will change the safety requirements.
With KEYENCE having a large range of wavelength options to choose from, most materials have the ability when properly tested to be marked or etched. Some that do not properly absorb laser light or produce toxic fumes include Delrin, PVC, Glue Backing, and Foam.
In comparison to a conventional IR laser marking system, a UV laser marking system has a much shorter wavelength, typically 355nm, which gives it many advantages when marking specific materials and applications. UV light is the best option for laser marking objects made of heat-sensitive materials, such as plastics or resins. With the lower wavelength, you receive a higher absorption rate allowing for contrast marking on a wider range of materials as well.
When deep engraving with a laser marking system, any depth can be achieved depending on how much time is required to complete the mark. Depending on the material and level of depth laser marking may not be the most efficient solution.
Laser Marker Applications
Laser Marking
Laser marking is a marking method that uses a focused laser beam to alter the surface of a target. The laser beam is emitted by an oscillator and scanned using a mirror (known as a scanning mirror), and a focusing lens is then used to focus the beam on the target and mark it by altering the surface.
Laser Engraving
Laser light irradiates the focal point and etches the surface of the target for marking. A deeply engraved impression can be made by increasing the amount of engraving by increasing the laser irradiation count.
Laser Etching
By running the laser beam along the desired path, the workpiece is etched in the desired pattern. The machining depth can also be controlled by changing the laser conditions.
Laser Cutting
Lasers cut targets by melting/evaporating material. Other cutting methods commonly use dies or blades. Changing a laser's output power and scan speed makes it possible to partially cut a target.
Laser Paint Removal
Removes the surface coating to uncover the material/paint beneath. Typical examples includes lighting switches in automobiles, cell phone buttons.
Laser Drilling
Laser drilling uses light to melt/evaporate a single point and create a hole, making it possible to process targets that conventionally could only be handled using dies or drills.
Laser Labeling
Improve processing by replacing labelers with laser markers, such as for substrate history management labels and vehicle nameplates.
The Resources of Laser Markers
Laser Etching vs Laser Engraving: Which to Choose?
Want to know the difference between laser etching vs laser engraving? Learn about each laser marking process and which is best for you.
How Does Laser Cleaning Work?
Laser cleaning ablates any contaminants of substrate without causing any damage to the underlying material. Not only is it eco-friendly to remove a number of contaminants, but it is also used in other applications.
What Materials Can Be Marked with a UV Laser Machine?
What materials can engrave a UV laser engraving machine? Find out which laser is best for each material you are looking for.
EV Laser Marking Applications
When dealing with Electric Vehicles, here are things you should note before laser marking on electric vehicles (EV) marking application.
KEYENCE has put together a rich collection of practical, knowledge-based information for getting the most out of a laser marker. This website contains actual marking applications and advice on how to choose a laser marker.
