Guidelines for Purchasing a Laser Marker: More Power Isn't Always Better

The power of a laser marking machine directly affects its processing results and the cost of operation.Many users blindly pursue high power, which leads to wasteful energy consumption or damage to materials.From the perspective of the actual application, this article analyzes three common misconceptions about power selection, and shares practical tips for matching power with materials, so that you can avoid the pitfalls of buying the wrong equipment and select a higher quality device.

Why isn't more power always better?

Many friends who buy a laser for the first time think that the higher the power, the more powerful the machine. It's just like when people buy a car, they only look at the engine displacement.But the reality is that too much power can lead to overexertion.For example, if you want to engrave a cell phone case, a 50-watt machine might burn right through the surface, while a 20-watt machine can mark clearly without damaging the material.Excessive power requirements also cause the equipment to be bulky, and require high cooling costs, which in turn drive up energy costs.

That way you won't be stuck in a rut.

First, let's look at the materials for processing.

Metal requires more than 30 watts to cut, but for more delicate materials like wood or acrylic, 20 watts is more than enough.There is a simple way to make a judgment: Take some scraps of the material and have the supplier demonstrate the machine on the spot. Observe the marking effect and the changes in the surface of the material. This is more direct than just looking at the specifications.

The efficiency of the processing equipment must be calculated.

A small workshop that stamps out 200 parts a day has very different speed requirements from a production line that stamps out 2000.Although high-powered machines can process things quickly, they also consume a lot of energy and require high maintenance costs.It is suggested that one take a sample and actually measure the output per unit time, and then combine this with the cost of electricity to calculate the overall cost.

Reserve 10-15 % performance space.

Don't let the machinery run full tilt all the time, just as you can't work overtime every day.For example, if the main work is to process 2 mm thick stainless steel sheets, choosing a 30 W machine rather than a 20 W machine will be more durable, and will be able to process the occasional 3 mm thick sheet without having to change equipment.

The details that are easily overlooked.

The cooling system must be matched.

I've seen too many cases of people buying high-power equipment and then pairing it with a cheap water cooler, and the result is that the system overheats and breaks down.For those over 30W, it is recommended that you choose a dual cycle cooling system, and don't skimp on a few dollars and give yourself trouble.

Software compatibility is a gender issue.

Some manufacturers concentrate only on hardware specifications, while the accompanying software is so difficult to use as to bring tears to the eyes.Key points to consider include whether it can directly import CAD files, whether it supports auto-focus, and whether the interface is in Chinese.

These are the things you need to do before you start shopping.

1. Take samples to the factory for testing.

2. Compare the actual printing results of printers of the same power but different brands.

3. Ask about the policy on replacing easily damaged parts during the warranty period.

4. Request a list of local after-sales service outlets.

Finally, if you come across a salesman who claims that more power is always better, just walk away.A reputable dealer will recommend the right configuration based on your needs, and will even advise you not to buy a machine with more power than you need.After all, the equipment is going to be around for years, and it's more important that it's suitable than that it looks good.