Laser Engraving Machinery

Benfits of laser engraving

• no-contact mark as tools don't touch surface of material being engraved
• as no contact - none or fewer wear and tear costs which are typical with more traditional engraving methods
• As no contact there is also less chance for product damage.
• No consumables and therefore fewer running costs
• No problems disposing of toxic by-products
• Laser engraving produces a mark that is crisp, clean and permanent.
• Lasers are also faster than many conventional methods of product imprinting
• greater versatility in material choices
• Laser engravers can cut through thin materials as well as engrave on them.
• Easy to operated as use PC's to create artwork

Limits of a laser engraving machine

It's still an expensive proposition to run an laser engraving machine despite prices having come down greatly over the years. When large amounts of material need to be removed then a laser machine still cannot compete with a traditional router.

How to control an engraving machine

The engraving system is connected to a computer in much the same was as a printer would be connected. Artwork is generated on the PC in a graphics program of your choice or artwork can be scanned in via a scanner.

Materials that can be engraved

Woods - hard woods are better than soft woods, producing nice crisp edges. Softwoods end product can often be inconsistent. Plastics - the softer plastics such as those used to produce soda bottles or cd cases, often melt at the point of focus - this produces a softer edge. Special plastics have been developed for use with signage. These have had silicone introduced which produces a sharper, crisper edge. Glass - if the power, speed and focus are just right, excellent results can be achieved. Sub surface engraving is also possible with glass if the focal plane is adjusted. This can give effects. Metal - not a good material as the surface reflects the laser and conducts the energy too well to be effect enough. Still possible if high enough energy applied.