The process of laser marking on metals dates back to the invention of CO2 lasers in the year 1964. Although, it was an old technique, today it has been improved by the help of various metal marking machines. This laser bonding process over metals is also known as laser annealing. Direct lasers are mainly used for the process of annealing the metal surface. The process tends to create a long lasting, dark mark on the metal surface that undergoes it. The dark mark is usually permanent.
The steps that are involved in the marking on metals include:
- Exposing the metal surface to a low powered laser beam from CO2 laser.
- Setting the beam on a low temperature in order to heat up the metal surface and anneal it.
The heated surface faces discoloration, causing the exposed surface to be of dark color, probably black. This happens due to the process of oxidation in which the oxygen diffuses below the surface.
The use of Fiber laser also helps to mark the metal surface. The benefit of it can be denoted as bright and polished mark rather than dull dark surface. The surface is kept intact while all the process.
The metal materials that can be marked include steel, copper, brass and stainless steel. The basic purpose of marking the metal is to convey information like bar codes, QR codes, serial numbers, text marking and logos. For more information about laser marking technology check this website.
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