A Practical Guide to Setting Laser Marking Parameters

This guide offers tips on how to set parameters for laser engraving, including power, speed, and frequency, helping users solve problems such as blurry engravings and low efficiency.By providing concrete examples and common problem analyses, the system helps users quickly master the matching of parameters for different materials, improving marking effects and machine usage efficiency.

Why is it so important?

Many people who are just beginning to work with laser marking systems feel that they can just buy a machine and use the default settings.But in actual operation, the material and the complexity of the design are different, and if the parameters are not adjusted properly, it is easy to get too shallow an engraving, burned edges, or even damage to the material.For example, when engraving on metal, too low a power setting might not leave a mark, while too high a setting might deform the surface.

These are the three core elements of parameter setting.

The bigger the power, the better?

The power of the laser directly determines its ability to penetrate.For example, to cut leather, a laser with 20 % power is enough to create fine patterns, but for stainless steel, the power might need to be turned up to 80 %.But be careful: too high a power can carbonize the material (especially plastic). In this case, try scanning with low power several times. This will ensure the depth of the engraving without damaging the surface.

Speed: The faster the speed, the more precise the results.

If the speed is too fast, the lines will be discontinuous; if it is too slow, the material will be burnt through.Take the example of engraving a QR code on acrylic. Setting the speed to 800 mm / s and the power to medium level produces a clear black-and-white contrast, without melting the edges of the material.Remember to test a small area of complex patterns before doing them in bulk.

Frequency: A detail that is often overlooked.

High frequencies (e.g. 20 kHz) are best for precision carving, while lower frequencies (5-10 kHz) are better suited for deeper carving or cutting.If you notice jagged, serrated edges in the carving, don't rush to adjust the focus. Try raising the frequency two or three notches.

A chart of parameters for different materials.

Here are starting parameters for a few common materials (using a 50W fiber laser as an example):

Stainless steel: power 75 %, speed 500 mm / s, frequency 15 kHz.

Anodized aluminum: 40 % power, 1200 mm / s speed, 20 kHz frequency.

Wood: 30 % power, 800 mm / s speed, 10 kHz frequency.

Glass: Power 15 %, speed 1500mm / s, frequency 5kHz (requires a rotating device to prevent shattering).

Avoid these common pitfalls.

1. Don't put complex patterns on a new machine--first test the settings using scrap material.

Reduce power by 5 % or 10 % when humidity is high (water vapor affects the light path).

3. When engraving reflective materials (such as mirror-finished copper), remember to apply a protective film to the surface, or the laser head may be damaged.

Four steps to success.

1) Check the material database (generally provided by the equipment manufacturer).

2. Use a 9-grid test: Divide the material into nine regions and separately adjust the parameters to achieve the best contrast.

3. Look closely at the corners for signs of overburning or breakage.

4. Before processing a batch, make sure to do at least three repeated tests.

Finally, it should be noted that there are no absolute standards for these parameters. After six months of use, the power of the same machine may have to be increased by 3-5 % to compensate for lens wear.If you make a habit of recording the data for each adjustment, you will gradually develop a personal database.