A Guide to Buying a Laser Marking Machine: The Five Key Parameters That Affect the Accuracy of a QR Code

When choosing a laser marking machine, one of the key requirements is the ability to create QR codes with sufficient precision.The article analyzes the five key parameters that influence the quality of QR codes produced by laser marking: laser wavelength, laser power, galvanometer speed, software compatibility, and the cooling system. This helps users quickly identify high-precision equipment, avoiding costly mistakes.

Why is the accuracy of QR codes so important?

QR codes are widely used in industry to track products and label them.If the laser's precision is not high enough, then the bar code may be difficult to scan, and in the worst case, the production line may come to a halt.This is especially true in the case of medical equipment and precision parts, which require a high degree of precision.Therefore, when selecting equipment, don't focus only on price. The following five parameters are the hard indicators.

The wavelength of the laser beam is the key to the "password" that allows the laser to cut through the material.

The wavelength of the laser determines whether the marking is to the client's taste.For example:

(1064nm) fiber laser.

It is suitable for metals and plastics, and the marking speed is fast, but dark materials can reflect light, affecting the contrast of the QR code.

355 nm ultraviolet laser.

This method is used for cutting glass, ceramics, and other brittle materials.

Power selection: Not necessarily the more the better.

Many people think that the more power a device uses, the better, but this is not necessarily true.

The basic models range from 30 to 50 watts.

It can meet the majority of small-scale QR code marking needs, such as packaging boxes and labels. The cost-performance ratio is high.

Industrial grade (100 watts and above).

They are suitable for deep engraving or high-speed production lines, but their high power output may burn away the edges of the material, which in turn reduces the readability of the QR code.

Mirror speed is a hidden factor affecting efficiency.

The galvanometer system is like the "speed of the hand" of a laser marking machine. If it's too slow, it can cause bottlenecks in the production line.

Low-end mirrors ( ≤ 3m / s).

It is suitable for marking individual items or small quantities, but when used continuously, it generates a lot of heat and the accuracy gradually decreases.

Imported galvanometer (≥ 7 m / s).

The high-speed production line's need for high-quality barcodes, along with the dynamic focus function, ensures that the edges of every 2D barcode are sharp.

Software compatibility: Don't let the system hold you back.

Have you ever had a labeling machine stop recognizing a design file? This is often the result of software problems.

Closed system.

Software developed in-house by the manufacturer is stable, but may not be compatible with the company's existing MES or ERP system.

Open interfaces.

Supports PLT and DXF formats, making it easy to upgrade.

The hidden hero: the cooling system.

The laser can heat up when it works for a long time, and a temperature variation of as little as 1 ° C can cause the focal point to shift by 0.01 mm.

Air-cooled system.

The low cost and small size of the machines make them suitable for intermittent work, such as in small workshops.

Water cooling systems.

The ability to maintain a constant temperature using a circulating coolant allows for 8-hour production runs without any loss of quality, which makes it a must-have for factories.

Conclusion: Know what you want, then compare the parameters.

Buying a laser marking machine is like buying a computer: you would certainly buy a different model for playing games than for office work.First think clearly about what material you will be working with, how much you will be working with per day, and whether you need to connect to an intelligent production line. Then use these five parameters to screen your options. Only in this way can you find a machine that is both cost-effective and reliable.If you're not really sure, take the sample to the factory and have it tested. That's more effective than reading 100 articles about the subject!