What is the most important attribute of industrial engraving applications?

Functionality is the most important attribute of industrial engraved parts. Functionality typically relates to readability – either human readability or machine readability (i.e. barcode scanners). Industrial engraved items must remain readable throughout the normal life of the part to which they are attached. This means that when selecting an engraving material, you need to completely understand the operating environment where the item will be installed by asking your customer if the part will be subject to conditions such as sunlight exposure, abrasion, chemical, corrosion, and heat. Most industrial engraving material manufacturers certify their material to perform in certain conditions.

-Sam Wainer and Andy Marvin, DuraBlack