What Is a Laser Marker?
A laser marker is a device that marks or processes objects by irradiating them with a laser beam. This technology allows for high-precision printing and produces marks that are more resistant to fading than those made by inkjet printers and other printing methods. Laser markers can print on a variety of materials, including metals, resins, glass, and wood.
Uses of Laser Markers
Laser markers are employed across various industries, such as automotive, food, and semiconductor fields, for tasks like:
- Printing 2D codes for tracking the manufacturing history of automotive parts
- Applying lot numbers on electronic components
- Marking serial numbers and expiration dates on beverage cans
- Microfabrication of metal parts
With their capability for precision processing, laser markers are increasingly preferred over traditional engraving methods like drilling.
Principle of Laser Markers
Laser markers operate primarily through two methods: masking and scanning.
Masking Laser Marker
This method involves irradiating a laser beam through a patterned mask to print. While it allows for detailed marking, it requires a unique mask for each pattern, making it time-consuming and costly.
Scanning Laser Marker
Here, a laser beam is scanned over the material according to the desired pattern using a galvanometer mirror. This technique allows for precise control and is adaptable for curved surfaces. The scanning method is widely used due to its efficiency and flexibility.
Types of Laser Markers
The choice of laser for a marker depends on the material and the specific processing requirements. Common types include:
YAG Laser
Utilizing YAG crystal, these lasers are versatile, suitable for marking on aluminum cans and plastic surfaces without damaging the materials.
Fiber Lasers
Fiber lasers, using optical fiber as the medium, provide high output power for deep marking into metals.
CO2 Laser
CO2 lasers, ideal for processing transparent materials, are commonly used for marking and processing glass.
Other Information on Laser Markers
Laser Markers for Home Use
Home-use laser markers are available for personal projects, like engraving names on wood or resin plates, and include safety covers to prevent dust scattering and accidental laser exposure.
Handheld Laser Markers
Compact laser markers, similar in size to a digital camera, offer portability for on-the-go marking, though they require a stable platform like a tripod for precise work.
Price of Laser Markers
Prices range widely from affordable options for hobbyists, costing about 50,000 yen, to industrial models priced between 1,000,000 yen and 5,000,000 yen, with high-power versions for metal processing reaching around 10,000,000 yen.