How to Choose a Laser Marking Solution that Won't Damage the Material

When selecting a suitable laser marking process for plastics, it is important to ensure that the marking is clear, but also that the surface of the material is not damaged.The speaker will share his insights on how to choose the right laser marking solution for various plastics such as ABS, PP, and PC.

Why is it that plastic is so easily damaged by lasers?

Many people have encountered this problem when using laser marking equipment: the parameters are clearly set correctly, but the plastic surface ends up burned, deformed, or even cracked.This is actually related to the nature of the plastic itself--different types of plastics have different degrees of absorbency and heat resistance.For example, ABS is not very resistant to high temperatures, and if a high-power laser is used continuously, it can melt and form pits. PC is heat resistant, but when it encounters a laser of a particular frequency, it may turn yellow.

Three steps to finding the right marking solution for your material.

First, find out what type of plastic you are.

Don't be in a rush to turn it on! First confirm the type of plastic you want to mark.You can check material reports provided by the supplier, or you can use a simple flame test. For example, ABS burns with black smoke and a rubbery smell, while PP melts and drips.If you are really unsure, it is best to do a small-scale test on a scrap piece of fabric first.

The laser is a "dialogue" between the laser parameters and the operator.

More power isn't always better!

- For sensitive materials like ABS, it is recommended that the power be set at 10-15 % and that the speed be raised to above 800 mm / s.

- PC material can be used with 30 % power at a medium speed of 600mm / s.

- Difficult materials such as PP may require a special coating.

Remember to pay attention to the frequency parameters. High frequency is suitable for light-colored markings, and low frequency reduces heat buildup.

Hidden tricks in choosing equipment.

The two most important things to look at are:

1. Does the equipment support multiple parameter presets (to facilitate switching between different materials)?

2. Does it have a real-time temperature control function?

It is better to bring some of your own materials to test the machine.

Small details that make a big difference.

Regularly check the laser head.

After about 500 hours of operation, check to see if the lens is dirty.One customer had a problem with uneven laser marking energy because the lenses had been exposed to plastic fumes. The result was that the products in the same batch had different colors.

Establishing a database of parameters.

Every time a marking is successfully made, the material type, laser parameters, and environmental temperature and humidity are recorded.The next time they come across similar materials, they can simply call up the file, saving about half the time it would take to reprogram.

Finally, when you encounter a new type of plastic, make sure to do destructive testing first--adjust your parameters slowly from low to high on scrap material, rather than risking your good products.