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*click an image below to view |
Metals
Many metals can be marked, but the type of effect that can be achieved
varies widely depending on the metal type. Metals can be engraved or
annealed, and certain metal finishes are subject to ablation. |
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Plastics
There are a nearly infinite variety of plastics in the world. Many mark
very nicely with certain wavelengths of laser, while others simply
do not mark at all. Many plastics will mark with several wavelengths
of laser, but get entirely different effects. Some plastics engrave at 1064nm, boil at 532nm, and simply change color at 355nm.
Plastics are perhaps the best example of the need for samples. Two plastics
that look identical may mark entirely differently. |
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Ceramics
The term ceramic also covers a wide variety of materials. Small differences
in the formulation of the material will make a big difference in the
ability to mark the surface. The common darker ceramics used in electronics
will mark fairly well, while the white aluminas are hit and miss. Glass
will mark under CO2, but may cause microfracturing, while most YAG lasers shine right through glass. |
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Wood/Organics
Wood is most commonly marked with CO2 lasers, although a 532nm YAG will
also do the job. Different types of wood will have different mark characteristics
as well. Other organic materials like leather and beans will mark with
CO2. A great variety of desk ornaments and other decorative items in
wood are made with CO2 lasers. |
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