Five Key Points in Optimizing Laser Marking Parameters for Corrosion-Resistant Metals

Summarizing the five most important points in optimizing metal laser marking parameters, including the setting of critical parameters such as laser power, marking speed, and frequency control, helps users resolve problems such as unclear markings and oxidation, and improve the clarity and durability of the markings on the metal surface.

Why is parameter optimization so important for marking corrosion-resistant metals?

Many technicians have reported that when using laser marking equipment to process stainless steel or rustproof alloys, the markings are either blurry or fade quickly even though the equipment is functioning perfectly.In fact, most of the time it's because the parameters haven't been adjusted properly.The right parameters not only prevent the material from oxidizing, but also make the mark clearer and more durable, thus avoiding the need for rework.

How should the laser's power be adjusted?

First, let's look at the thickness of the material.

The thickness of the rust-proof metal directly affects the power requirements.For instance, for sheets of stainless steel less than 0.5 mm thick, the power needs to be adjusted to only 20-30 %.Too high a power setting can burn through the material, or cause it to turn brown around the edges, and thicker materials (such as 3 mm or more) require 50-70 % power to get the desired depth.

Don't be lazy about testing samples.

We suggest you first try it out on scraps of material.The laser power is gradually increased until the color of the marking is even and not gray.Don't be afraid of the trouble, it's a lot cheaper than having to redo a finished product.

How can we balance efficiency and quality in the marking process?

A too fast speed will lead to a weak mark, while a too slow speed will burn the material.For example, when processing 304 stainless steel, the speed should be controlled between 800 and 1200 mm / s.If you want to make a detailed design, you can slow the speed down to about 500mm / s, and at the same time reduce the power.

What are the tricks to getting a frequency?

High-frequency (above 50kHz) is suitable for shallow engraving, such as surface oxidation coloring, which produces a more even color. Low-frequency (below 20kHz) can engrave deeper, and is suitable for industrial parts that need to be wear-resistant.Remember one point: frequency and power must be adjusted together. At high frequencies, power can be a little lower, but at low frequencies it must be increased.

Should a carrier gas be used, and if so, which one?

The nitrogen or argon can effectively prevent the metal from oxidizing and turning black during the engraving process, especially for high-carbon steel.If color is not a major consideration, compressed air can be used, but remember to install a filter so that oil and water do not get sprayed onto the surface of the material.Pressure is controlled at 0.3-0.5MPa, which is relatively safe; if the pressure is too high, it will blow the laser beam apart.

Focusing is another detail often overlooked.

Don ’ t underestimate the importance of this step! A deviation of just 0.5 millimeters can cause the mark to be blurred.Here's a trick: Draw a grid on the waste film and see which lines are the clearest.If the factory is big enough, it can be equipped with automatic focusing heads, which double the efficiency.