Choosing the Right Laser Power

By explaining the relationship between laser power and marking area, we can help you avoid the trap of blindly choosing a high-power machine.Through practical scene analysis, we provide power calculation methods and type selection suggestions, assisting you to reasonably arrange equipment according to material characteristics and processing requirements, saving costs while improving efficiency.

Why doesn't high power equal high efficiency?

Many friends, when selecting a laser marking machine, always think that the higher the power, the better. Actually, that is a typical misconception.It's just like buying an air conditioner--you can't just look at the BTUs (a measure of cooling capacity), you have to look at the size of the room. The laser's power has to be matched to the area being worked on.If the power is too high, not only is electricity wasted, but the surplus energy can cause the surface of the material to burn. This is especially true when working with plastic or wood, as the chance of a botched job doubles.

Three steps to calculating your true needs.

The first step is to determine the size of the label.

Measure the maximum size of the work you normally do with a tape measure, rather than using the maximum size the machine is rated for.Say the machine is rated for 300x300mm, but you're only cutting 50x50mm nameplates. In this case, 60W is more than sufficient, and don't let the salesman talk you into buying 100W.

Second step: Distinguish material properties.

Metal and acrylic are completely different! High-reflectivity materials like stainless steel do need more power, but for easily carbonized materials like leather or ceramics, too much power will directly scorch the edges of the pattern.I suggest that you get a sample to do gradient testing, and find a balance between clarity and safety.

Third step: Consider production efficiency.

Mass production is completely different from producing a few samples.If you have to process thousands of parts every day, then it makes sense to invest in a high-spec machine because it can cut down the processing time per piece.But if you're only processing a few dozen samples a week, then using high-powered equipment is like using a cannon to swat a fly.

Avoiding pitfalls: A common sales tactic.

The statement that "a higher-power machine will be a better investment in the future" is the most dangerous. The life expectancy of a laser is directly related to its power. If you use a 200-watt machine to do 50-watt work, the core components will wear out 30 % faster.It's better to save the money and rent equipment when there is a real need.

Recommended configuration.

• Small area fine processing (<100 × 100 mm): 20-30 W (suitable for logos on electronic products).

• Medium size (200x200mm): 50-80W.

• High power (100-120W) for large-area, deep engraving (stone carving, industrial components).

Next time a salesman starts pushing a high-power machine, ask him, "Is this power suitable for the size of the workpieces I usually cut?" That'll show him you know what you're talking about!