Is laser marking the best technology for marking parts?

1. Advantages of laser marking

Laser marking offers many advantages. Some of these include:

• Accuracy and durability: You can mark various contents, such as text, barcodes, or symbols, very precisely and permanently.

• Change speed: It is easy and fast to switch between different markup contents.

• No wear and tear: Laser marking does not require changing tools or consumables, which means lower maintenance costs.

There are also applications that can only be realized using laser marking, for example the gentle removal of paint on buttons in cars that are backlit in different colors.

2. When is laser marking not the best choice?

Laser marking is not always the best solution. You can run into three main scenarios where it's not ideal:

1. Technical limitations: If you need color marking, such as a red logo on a plastic part, laser marking is not suitable. In such cases, it would be better to use pad printing or hot stamping.

2. Production requirements: For large markings on cardboard boxes moving on a conveyor, laser marking can be too slow. Large character printers or label applicators would be more suitable here.

3. Commercial efficiency: If you need a simple and permanent marking on a small number of metal parts, for example a serial number, laser marking can be too expensive. In this case, it would be more economical to use micro punch or engraving units.

3. What technology is best for reliable industrial marking?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to which technology is best for marking parts, as each application has its own specific requirements. Laser marking is great for many applications, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Conclusion

Laser marking is a very useful technology with many advantages. However, it is not always the best choice for every labeling application. If you have specific marking requirements, consult with a professional to determine if laser marking is right for your needs.