Industrial laser markers

An industrial laser marker is a machine that uses a laser beam to permanently engrave codes, text, logos and symbols onto metal, plastic or other material surfaces. Unlike traditional printing or labeling systems, laser marking does not require inks or consumables and guarantees an indelible marking that is resistant to wear, heat and chemical agents.

The system generates a high-energy laser beam that is focused onto the surface of the workpiece by means of a galvanometric mirror system. The controlled interaction between the laser beam and the material makes it possible to create permanent, high-precision markings without mechanical contact. The process is managed by software that automatically adjusts parameters such as power, speed and frequency according to the material and the required result.

A laser marker is used to engrave materials in order to identify and trace products and components throughout the entire production process. The main applications include marking serial codes, Data Matrix codes, QR codes, logos and informational text, useful for supply chain traceability, quality control, compliance with industry regulations (such as IATF 16949 or UDI) and post-sales product identification.

A fiber laser marker is a system that generates the laser beam through an ytterbium-doped optical fiber, ensuring high energy efficiency, a high-quality beam and low maintenance. It is the most widely used technology for marking metals and many plastics, thanks to its combination of speed, precision and high contrast even on complex surfaces.

The MOPA (Master Oscillator Power Amplifier) fiber laser marker is an evolution of the fiber laser that allows independent adjustment of pulse duration, in addition to power and frequency. This additional control makes it possible to achieve variable-contrast markings (from deep black to surface coloring), making it ideal for applications requiring high aesthetic quality, such as marking on stainless steel or visible components.

Laser marking on metal is generally carried out using fiber technology, which interacts with the material’s surface to produce permanent, high-contrast markings. Depending on the parameters set, it is possible to achieve either surface or deeper markings, designed to ensure high durability and wear resistance under normal operating conditions, without mechanical contact and without compromising the properties of the workpiece.

For marking plastics, MOPA fiber laser markers (suitable for many technical additivated plastics) and UV markers (more suitable for standard plastics and non-additivated materials) are mainly used. The choice of the most suitable technology depends on the type of polymer, the desired marking color and the required level of contrast, and it is advisable to carry out a preliminary test on the specific material.

Compared to inkjet marking, laser marking does not use consumables, reducing operating costs and ensuring a permanent marking that is resistant to solvents and abrasion. Compared to mechanical stamping, the laser does not exert pressure on the workpiece, avoiding microfractures or surface stresses, and is generally faster at handling variable codes such as Data Matrix codes and progressive numbering.