Laser marking on dei-cast components

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Until a few years ago, laser marking on unfinished components that had just come out of a die was not possible due to the quality degradation caused by subsequent processes — especially for DataMatrix codesToday, however, the advancements in laser markers have allowed us to meet manufacturers’ requirements while providing permanent and complete traceability. This is especially the case when laser marking components happens immediately after leaving the die.

Now, we can guarantee DataMatrix code readability even after invasive processes like sandblasting or shot peening.

LASIT has developed several solutions for foundries. Our line includes standalone systems and automation through in-line integration laser marker machines.

 

More specifically, our solutions portfolio includes 24 systems designed in the last ten years to provide for loading/unloading during downtime, as well as 5 special stations for robotic integration. Additionally, the strength of these laser markers lies in the increased productivity with additional help from robotics.

Autofocus

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Custom software

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Discover the precision that makes the difference

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LASIT solutions for foundries

Laser marking before sandblasting or shot peening

If we consider the processes a die-cast component undergoes, the most common and the most destructive are certainly sandblasting and shot peeningAlthough both steps are certainly necessary in the processing cycle, their degree of invasiveness can compromise the DataMatrix code, making it harder to read.

LASIT has developed a strategy to prevent the DataMatrix code from becoming unreadable after several different processes. Deep markings with specific parameters and dedicated geometries specifically designed for die-cast components make this possible. High-powered lasers 100W, 200W or 300W are most commonly used here because they also guarantee an extremely fast process.

UP Foundry
DOWN Foundry
Articolo-Pressofusi-ABB-02-1024x589 Foundry
Articolo-Pressofusi-ABB-05-1024x486 Foundry
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Robot integration

LASIT is an expert in customizing laser systems designed to meet all customer requirements.

 

We have delivered many complex projects and integrated solutions. Our goal is not just to sell a product, but also to find real solutions to real problems. Over the years, we have excelled in our field thanks to our outstanding automation capacity and versatility. For laser marking die-cast components, in particular, we specialize in producing integrated systems.

 

One notable example is the laser marking system made for engine blocks. The laser marker has a cell with three inlets. Each inlet features a shuttle to load the component to be marked.

 

The core of the system is a six-axis ABB robot integration that can achieve any position. This means that the die-cast component can reach the laser engraving cabinet from any direction. Regardless of its orientation, the laser will find the correct position for laser marking.

 

We use a 3D scanning system to make this possible, and the system checks the shape of the die-cast component and its position on the shuttle.

The vision system

The vision system has a camera attached to the marking head. The camera identifies the die-cast component, the location of the marking, and the area to be marked so that the laser marker engraves the code at the exact point.

 

As the die-cast component enters the cell, the robot positions the 3D marking system to scan it completely. The result is a complete 3D photograph of the piece, which allows us to uniquely identify the piece within the laser marker database.

 

At this point, the software instructs the robot to move to the desired marking position, regardless of the piece’s orientation on the surface. Meanwhile, the marking layout is sent to the laser, updating the DataMatrix content with data taken from the customer’s factory system. Just before marking starts, a laser measurement system adjusts the robot position to ensure laser focus.

This extraordinary system also reads and grades marked codes. Operators can view the results directly on the monitor. Then, they can pull out the marked die-cast component and start the cycle again without interruption. The cabinet houses a camera that records every step to help identify the causes of potential malfunctions.

Laser marking during downtime with robot integration

FlySwap  is another intriguing solution developed by LASIT for laser marking die-cast components. This laser marking system is designed to work with robot integration to load large pieces. The double loading station does not have a rotary table, but has been developed to make loading and positioning from above easier with a mechanical arm. The upper door is pneumatic and sleek. The 580×330 mm surface is designed for large die-casting components and for positioning custom pallets. The role of a distance sensor is key because it helps the laser marker correct micro-focusing distances due to printing inaccuracies on the die-cast component. This way, the laser marking machine always produces optimal results.

Our advantages

Sole supplier

No intermediary,
from design to realization

Interface

PROFIBUS protocols,
PROFINET and PROFIsafe

Integration

Integrations with
MES / ERP systems

Industry 4.0

Business database interaction
for industry 4.0

Vision system

Automatic centering, 2D code verification and grading, OCR recognition

Laser system

For every application and integration
in production chains