A laser marker is a tool that can permanently mark a component with a code, logo or graphic. In particular, it is used in industry for traceability, aesthetic marking, and functional marking. When we talk about laser markers, we refer to complex machinery, consisting of several elements that can be integrated with numerous accessories, depending on specific needs. A laser marker is also defined as the so-called integration laser, which is the simplest system configuration that goes into the factory’s production line. A laser marker, however, can also be a complex piece of machinery, with its cabinet and axis handling structure, its software, and its range of accessories. So let’s delve into what components make up this tool and what they are used for.
- The laser source generates the high-energy light beam that enables marking. This source can vary according to the needs of the application, from fiber lasers for metals and plastics, to CO2 lasers for organic materials such as wood and paper, to UV lasers for markings on delicate components, Fiber picosecond for super-fast, black, reflection-free markings.
- The optical system, consisting of mirrors, lenses and galvanometer scanners, guides the laser beam precisely. This allows detailed markings to be made on various surfaces and materials.
- A support structure that holds the mechanics of the machine protects the internal components and provides the stability needed for quality markings. It is usually made of steel.
- The software makes it easy to program and manage marking operations. In the case of LASIT, the proprietary FlyCAD software can be customized according to specific needs.
- The vacuum system, which, where marking produces fumes or dust, is necessary to ensure operator safety and safeguard the system itself.
- Motion axes that are XYZ, which move the laser head at the point to be marked and, in the case of the Z axis, at the correct focal distance.
LASIT Laser Markers
LASIT boasts a fleet of more than 150 laser markers developed for various industries. In recent years, it has focused on verticalized marking systems to meet the specific needs of manufacturers, in various industries. Thanks to our customers, who have become true partners, we have been able to perfect our laser markers to respond directly to their production needs, both in terms of hardware and software.
Our markers are divided into: benchtop systems, markers with XYZ axes, markers working in masked time (rotary table or side slider), for nameplates, and integration laser sources.
In addition, we have two specific solutions for marking promotional components such as pens, pencils, water bottles and cups, which are the Penfedeer and Drinkfeeder.
Laser markers: Add-ons
The versatility of laser markers is extended by a range of components, which are sometimes needed to ensure the desired marking result or achieve the required productivity.
- Rotary tables allow large and medium-sized components to be marked in masked time, ensuring maximum productivity.
- Shuttles are add-ons to the laser markers that form the movable table of the machine, allowing Y handling and loading of heavy components with ease by an operator or robot.
- Vision systems, with high-resolution cameras and analysis software, ensure accurate markings and real-time quality control of the result, as well as selection of defective components to exclude them from the line.
- Rotary axis for 360° marking of cylindrical components with absolute precision.
- Software interface for collaboration with robots, required to communicate with the robot handling components inside the marking booth and during unloading.
Integration in Industrial Processes
The integration of laser markers into modern production lines is facilitated by standardized interfaces and advanced communication protocols. These systems fit into existing workflows, communicating in real time with production management systems. The compact design and mounting flexibility allow installation even in tight spaces or unconventional configurations, adapting to the existing layout of production lines. Integrated traceability systems generate and verify serial codes and batch information in real time, ensuring complete traceability of products along the production and distribution chain.
Industry Sectors and Applications
Laser markers are used in many industries today, each with specific needs:
In the automotive industry, laser markers are used for component tracking, from marking engine parts to electronic components. They play an important role in interior customization, creating designs on dashboards and trim, such as backlit components with paint removal (day&night applications). In addition, all structural components of the car are marked for traceability: crankshaft, differentials, bevel gears, brake discs and so on.
In the medical industry, laser marking is used for traceability of surgical instruments, ensuring that information remains legible even after numerous sterilization cycles. The marking of implants, such as prostheses and pacemakers, and the labeling of medical devices, from syringes to complex machinery, are other applications where lasers are now used across the board. The Picosecond laser is particularly popular in this area because it marks without reflections on metal surgical instruments and resists the use of chemicals. This ensures that, in the operating room where there are many lights, all instrumental measurement indications are clearly readable.
In the household appliance (home appliance) industry, laser markers are used for a variety of purposes. In fact, almost all control panels are now marked, creating durable, wear-resistant marks on home appliances such as washing machines, ovens and refrigerators. The technology enables precise and detailed markings on buttons and knobs, ensuring that the markings remain legible over time despite frequent use and cleaning with harsh detergents. In addition, the marking is used for labeling internal components, facilitating assembly, maintenance, and recycling of appliances.
In the promotional sector, laser marking offers unparalleled productivity solutions for customizing gadgets made of any material (metal, plastic, wood, painted components, lacquered, and so on). This technology is particularly valued for its ability to create durable, high-quality markings on a wide range of materials, from metal to plastic, wood to glass. It is used to engrave logos and create designs and graphics on pens, key chains, power banks, mugs, and water bottles.
In the hydraulics industry, laser marking is essential for traceability and identification of critical components such as valves, pumps, cylinders and fittings. This technology makes it possible to accurately mark technical information, serial numbers, and lot codes directly on components. The durability of laser markings is particularly valuable in this field, where components are often exposed to harsh operating conditions, including aggressive fluids, high pressures and high temperatures. Laser marking is also used to create graduated scales on hydraulic cylinders and other measuring components, ensuring accuracy in operations and maintenance. Another important application is on hydraulic nameplates, which are often affixed to components too large to be marked directly. LASIT has developed several suitable solutions for this application, with a laser marker, Towerlabel, that can be equipped with 4 loaders for different sized labels that are marked automatically.
