Techniques for Setting Laser Marking Parameters: A Detailed Look at the Key Points for Different Materials

The book provides detailed instructions on how to adjust the parameters of laser marking machines for different materials (such as metal, plastic, and glass), including power, speed, and frequency settings.By presenting practical case studies and analyzing common problems, the book helps users quickly master parameter optimization methods, improving marking results and avoiding material damage or low efficiency due to improper settings.

Why do the parameters have to be adjusted when the material is changed?

The key to a good laser marking job is to find the right parameters for the material being marked.For example, metal requires high power to etch deeply, but if the same parameters are used on plastic, it could burn right through.Therefore, to get the best results, it is necessary to understand the characteristics of the different materials and then adjust the power and speed accordingly.

The key points in the adjustment of metal materials.

Metals are "old friends" of laser marking, but even among metals there are differences.

Stainless steel or aluminum alloy.

For stainless steel, a 20-30 % power setting, 800-1200 mm / s speed, and 20-50 kHz frequency are used.If you want black oxidation, you can reduce the speed so that the laser stays longer.Aluminum alloys require lower power (15-25 %), and can be welded at faster speeds (1000-1500 mm / s), otherwise they are likely to bubble.

Copper and plated metals.

Copper has a high reflectivity, so it is suggested to raise the power to 30-40 % and lower the frequency to 10-20 kHz to avoid the energy being wasted by reflection.For plated metals (such as brass nameplates), a low-power test cut is required to prevent the plating from peeling off.

The techniques of non-metallic materials.

Plastic, wood, and glass are all relatively "fragile" materials. If the parameters are not properly adjusted, the machine can crash in a matter of minutes.

How can plastic be adjusted?

For ordinary ABS plastic, 10-15 % power is used at speeds of 1500 mm / s or more, and the frequency is selected in the range of 50-100 kHz.If the edges turn yellow after being marked, it may be due to the laser power being too high or the marking speed being too slow.For PVC materials, be extra careful, as they can release toxic fumes if the power exceeds 10 %. It is recommended to ventilate the area before operating the machine.

Glass and ceramic work.

If you are worried about glass cracking, try the "light, repeated marking" method. Lower the power to 5-8 % and increase the speed to 2000 mm / s, and repeat the marking two or three times.The parameters are similar to those for ceramics, but the frequency is lowered to 5-10kHz, which increases the concentration of the laser energy.

Hidden parameters that are often overlooked.

Besides power and speed, don't forget the following:

Focal length and depth of field.

The focal length is not right, like a photograph that is out of focus, and the image is blurry.Metal should be shot with a short focal length (e.g. 100 mm), and plastic with a long focal length (over 150 mm).The depth of focus can be adjusted to control the depth of the etch marks. A positive depth of focus is suitable for surface engravings, while a negative depth of focus is suitable for deeper engravings.

Breathing assistance shouldn't be overlooked.

A strong blast of air is used to prevent the residue of oxidized slag from remaining on the surface.When carving wood, using low-flow nitrogen can reduce the carbonization and blackening.The plastic material can be turned off to prevent deformation.

Guiding the newbies.

1. Test on small samples: Use scraps to test parameters before applying the process to finished products.

2. The temperature and humidity of the environment have an effect. In the summer, when the humidity is high, power can drop 5 %.

Regular cleaning: Dirty lenses can cause energy loss of more than 20 %.

4. Keep good records: Record successful cases and use them as a reference for the future.

By adjusting the parameters in accordance with these points, they can at least avoid six months of trial and error.Of course the performance of each machine is different, and the key is to try out different combinations and find the one that works best with your own equipment.