What are the best practices for lasering textured outdoor sheet metal?

Textured outdoor materials for signs are tougher and cost more than regular engraving material. It also takes more time to engrave and should bring a premium price compared to regular engraving stock.

Here’s a way to laser it without frustration to get great results. The primary thing to keep in mind with the textured sheet material is not to use too much power or heat at once, especially for large thick text or graphics with thick lines. Reduce line thickness whenever possible.

Other things to keep in mind include:

1. Your sheet may need a little extra holding power, so I tuck my sheet slightly under my laser’s rulers on both the top and left side to help hold it down.
2. Plan three raster passes and do not cut on these passes, with the first two at 400 dpi and the power turned down some – say, to 60 percent rather than 80 percent based on the recommended settings for your laser.
3. Laser the third pass at 600 dpi. You can generally leave the power alone and if you need to, adjust the speed to a slower speed.
4. Once you are satisfied with the rastering results, you can cut. I perform two passes just to make sure I get a smooth and clean cut.

-Bob Hagel, Eagle’s Mark