The best laser frequency and speed

The frequency and speed of laser marking machines directly affect the quality and efficiency of the work.For different materials, different combinations of parameters are needed. For metals, high frequency and low speed are recommended, while for non-metals, low frequency and high speed are more appropriate.In actual use, the sound needs to be adjusted through testing, and the environment and power must be taken into account.Avoiding the rigid use of fixed parameters, and instead combining equipment status and material characteristics in flexible adjustments, is the only way to achieve clear and efficient marking.

Why is it so important that the frequency and speed match up?

The key to the effectiveness of a laser marking machine is the combination of frequency and speed.Frequency determines how many times per second the laser beam can act, and speed controls how fast the marking head moves.If the two don't match up, the label may be too faint to read, or the system may be inefficient and waste electricity.For instance, metal requires low frequency and high speed to be engraved deeply, while plastic requires low frequency and high speed to be engraved cleanly.

How can we find the right combination of parameters?

First, let's look at the materials.

Different materials react in different ways to a laser beam.Metal parts usually require high frequencies of 20 kHz or higher and moderate speeds of 200-500 mm / s. Non-metal materials, such as wood and leather, require lower frequencies of 5-15 kHz, and can be processed at higher speeds of 800-1500 mm / s.But this is only a general direction, and the details still have to be tested!

Don't be lazy about testing the samples.

Before a batch is actually produced, tests are always carried out on scrap material.First, you fix one parameter (such as frequency) and gradually adjust the speed to observe the results.If the edges are rough, then it may be that the speed was too fast; if the color is yellow, then it may be that the frequency was too high and the piece was overdone.After a few attempts, you'll get the hang of it.

Avoid these common pitfalls.

Don't be superstitious about a "universal parameter.

The "golden parameters" that circulate on the Internet can only be used as a reference, because the actual results are affected by factors such as ambient temperature, the age of the equipment, and even the stability of the power supply.Last month a customer insisted on using a certain parameter set, and the result was that the depth of the marks made on a batch of ABS plastic parts varied. In the end it was found that the air conditioning in the workshop had caused a change in the temperature of the material's surface.

Speed and frequency are not the only variables.

However, focusing on just these two parameters is not enough. The spacing of the dots and the power of the laser must also be taken into consideration.For instance, if the power output doesn't keep up when the frequency is increased, the depth of the marking will actually become less.Experience tells us that the power should be kept at 2-3 times the frequency (in W). For example, 30 kHz frequency with 60-90 W power is relatively safe.