How to choose a suitable marking machine for metal?

How to choose a metal marking machine? From the angles of material characteristics, marking requirements, and equipment performance, this article analyzes the characteristics of laser marking machines and pneumatic marking machines, helping users to find the most suitable metal marking solution based on metal hardness, marking precision, and budget.

First, you must understand the nature of the metal you are working with.

Choosing a marking machine is like choosing shoes, you have to see if it fits the material.There are many kinds of metal, and the hardness and surface treatment methods differ widely. For instance, the requirements of a marking machine for stainless steel are completely different from those for aluminum alloy.

Look at the hardness of the metal.

High hardness metals (such as mold steel) require equipment with greater power. Fiber laser marking machines have a strong penetrating power, and can leave clear markings.For soft metals like aluminum, a regular CO2 laser or pneumatic marking tool will do the job.

Pay attention to surface treatment.

The mirror-like surface of polished metals is highly reflective, and ordinary lasers might be "blinded" by the glare, which could affect the results. In such cases, it's better to use a deep-engraving laser marker, or adjust the laser wavelength.In fact, it's easier to etch markings on sandblasted or oxidized surfaces.

Advantages and disadvantages of different types of marking machines.

The mainstream laser marking machines on the market fall into three categories, which we'll discuss one by one.

Optical fiber laser marking machine.

Suitable for high-strength materials like stainless steel and titanium alloys, this method leaves a fine, indelible mark.The downside is that the price is a bit high, and a small company may feel the pinch.

Air-powered marking machine.

The first method is cheaper, but the second is more precise and produces a better finish.It is suitable for rough machining of parts which do not require high precision, such as large mechanical components.

CO2 laser engraving machines.

The laser marking process is the fastest, but it has the least penetrating power.This method is suitable for softer materials such as aluminum and plated metals, but if you try to use it on steel, you'll probably end up crying.

They have to choose according to actual needs.

When buying equipment, the worst thing you can do is jump on the bandwagon. The key is to ask yourself three questions:

How many pieces do you have to make every day?

In mass production, the priority is high levels of automation. Although hand-operated machines are cheaper, their efficiency will drive you to distraction.

How precise should the markers be?

Microscopic text and QR codes require high-precision lasers.If you only want to print the outline of a logo, even entry-level equipment will do.

What price range are you looking at?

I recommend that if you have a budget of less than NT $ 20,000, you should look at second-hand fiber-optic machines. If you have between NT $ 30,000 and NT $ 50,000, you can buy a new domestic machine. If you're a tycoon, then you can go straight for an imported machine.Don't buy an old clunker just to save money, because the repair bills will be enough to buy a new one.

Pay attention to these details when testing the machine.

Don't just listen to the sales pitch, take some samples with you to try out the machine.

Look at the actual results.

The most important thing is to observe whether the edges are rough or smooth and whether the depth is uniform.Look closely at the details and you will find that some machines have exaggerated specifications.

Testing continuous work stability.

Letting the machine work continuously for 30 minutes, does it overheat? Will it jam in the middle? These are the real tests.

Find out about after-sales service.

How long will the laser head last? How long does it take to get a repair response? Get a price list for spare parts in advance.I've seen too many people buy equipment only to find that the after-sales phone line is always busy.

And finally, a reminder: There is no standard answer to choosing a labeling machine. It's the same as choosing a mate: suitability is more important than price.If you can clearly understand the characteristics of your material, the requirements of your production, and your budget, you can be sure to avoid buying inferior equipment and get the kind of equipment that you really want.