In the world of material processing, laser technologies offer precise and versatile solutions for a wide range of applications. Two of the most common techniques are laser marking and laser cutting. Although both use a laser beam to interact with materials, their applications and purposes are very different.
How does laser marking work?
Laser marking is a process used primarily to create permanent marks on a material. This can include barcodes, serial numbers, logos, text or complex designs. Marking occurs through the interaction of the laser beam with the surface of the material, causing a chemical or physical change. There are various types of laser marking, including:
- Engraving: The laser removes a part of the material, creating a mark.
- Ablation: Removal of a surface layer without damaging the underlying material.
- Blackening: The laser heats the material, causing the color to change.
- Foaming: Used mainly on plastics, the laser creates microscopic bubbles that reflect light and appear white.
Laser marking is highly valued for its precision and durability, making it ideal for the automotive, medical and consumer goods industries.
How does laser cutting work?
Laser cutting, on the other hand, is a process used to separate a material into distinct parts. This is done by focusing a powerful laser beam on a precise point of the material, which is melted, burnt or vaporized. Laser cutting is commonly used for materials such as metals, plastics, wood and textiles. There are several methods of laser cutting, including:
- Fusion cutting: The material is melted by the laser and a gas is used to remove the molten metal.
- Combustion cutting: The laser heats the material until it burns, using oxygen.
- Sublimation cutting: The laser vaporizes the material, transforming it directly from a solid to a gas.
Laser cutting offers a high level of precision and speed, making it essential for industrial applications such as electronics manufacturing, machine building and the aerospace industry.
Comparison of Marking vs. Cutting
Although both technologies use lasers, their applications differ significantly:
- Objective: Laser marking is used to identify and decorate, while laser cutting is used to separate materials.
- Laser intensity: Marking requires less energy than cutting, since it is not necessary to pass through the material from side to side but only to change its surface.
- Materials: Both technologies can work on a variety of materials but laser cutting requires more power for thicker or harder materials.
- Precision: Both processes are highly accurate but laser cutting requires extreme precision to ensure crisp, clean edges without distortion.
Best Laser Markers on the Market
Currently, the most advanced laser markers on the market are fiber, CO2 and UV lasers. Among the fiber lasers, the MOPA fiber laser stands out for its versatility and precision, ideal for color and plastic marking. CO2 lasers are perfect for organic materials such as wood and leather, offering excellent marking quality. Finally, UV lasers are preferred for their ability to work on delicate materials without causing thermal damage, making them ideal for electronics and medical devices.