Best Laser Marking & Engraving Machines for Industrial Use
From UDI compliance on medical devices to branding jewelry, laser marking is everywhere in manufacturing. Here's how to choose the right technology and machine for your application.
Quick Technology Guide
- Fiber (1064nm): Metals, plastics with additives, most versatile
- CO2 (10.6µm): Organics—wood, paper, leather, acrylic, glass
- UV (355nm): Sensitive plastics, medical, cold marking
- Green (532nm): Copper, gold, reflective metals
Marking vs Engraving: What's the Difference?
Technically, "marking" refers to surface-level discoloration or oxidation, while "engraving" removes material. In practice, most industrial lasers do both depending on power settings.
- Marking: QR codes, logos, serial numbers—readable but minimal depth
- Engraving: Deep cuts for wear resistance, tactile feel, or aesthetic depth
Fiber Laser Markers: The Workhorse
20W-50W fiber lasers handle 90% of industrial marking needs. They excel on:
- Steel, stainless, aluminum (annealing, etching, deep engraving)
- Engineering plastics with laser additives (ABS, PA, PBT)
- Coated surfaces (removing paint/anodizing to expose base material)
Don't use fiber on: Clear plastics, wood, paper, leather, or glass.
Fiber Laser Markers
CO2 Laser Markers
CO2 Markers: Organic Materials
The 10.6µm wavelength of CO2 lasers is readily absorbed by organic materials. Use CO2 for:
- Wood products (MDF, plywood, solid wood)
- Paper and cardboard packaging
- Leather goods
- Acrylic and many plastics (flame-polished edges)
- Glass (fracture marking)
UV and Green: Specialty Applications
UV lasers (355nm) produce "cold marking" with minimal heat input. Essential for:
- Medical devices requiring biocompatible marks
- Clear and sensitive plastics (PVC, silicone, HDPE)
- Electronics where heat could damage components
Green lasers (532nm) are the choice for reflective metals like copper and gold, where fiber lasers struggle with absorption.
Key Specifications
Power
More power = faster marking or deeper engraving, not larger field size. 20W handles most traceability marking. 50W+ for deep engraving or high-speed production.
Field Size (Work Area)
Determined by the galvo lens. Common sizes: 110×110mm, 175×175mm, 300×300mm. Larger fields mean larger spot size and lower detail resolution.
Pulse Duration
MOPA fiber lasers offer adjustable pulse duration for different material responses. Essential for color marking on stainless steel or precision work on sensitive materials.
Integration Considerations
- Standalone workstation: Class 1 enclosure, manual part loading
- Desktop unit: Compact, often unenclosed (Class 4 laser safety)
- Integration-ready: Bare scan head for robotic or conveyor mounting
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