Metal Marking with a CO2 Laser
When metal marking a stainless-steel data plate, there are two ways to go about it. Let's take a look at one method: CO2 lasering.
Blank metals can be marked with a CO2 laser engraving machine only if you use a laser marking solution. The metal-marking solution must be applied to the workpiece prior to processing with a laser machine. It first needs to dry and then will be burned into the material during the laser process. Once the laser process has finished, the excess marking paste must be washed off.
A laser marking spray is essential for cleaning sensitive surfaces or high-priced workpieces like watch markings. Furthermore, it is important to note that marking solutions are classified as hazardous materials. Be sure to adhere to the corresponding safety regulations to protect your own safety and that of your employees.
Without marking solutions, the CO2 laser source with a wavelength of 10.6 µm is basically not suitable for marking metals. A high laser power is required for the metal to even react to the laser. At the same time, the process must be very slow. This results in a lot of energy being introduced into the material, which makes it heat up and become deformed. The resulting details on the engraving, for example small font, cannot be seen.
-Josh Stephens Lasers Plus
