Things to Consider When Selecting Laser Marking Machines

When selecting a fiber laser marking machine, metal processing firms should consider three factors: material compatibility, production requirements, and long-term use costs.Different metals absorb different wavelengths of laser light, so it is recommended that you bring samples for testing. The power of the system should be balanced between production efficiency and energy consumption. You should also be aware of the costs of replacing parts, software upgrades, and the speed of service response, to avoid affecting production efficiency.

Why do metalworking shops need dedicated laser marking machines?

Metal materials are hard and have a wide variety of surface treatments, and ordinary marking equipment is easily worn out or lacks precision.Fiber lasers are ideal for use in the marking of stainless steel and aluminum alloys, because they have a small heat-affected zone and a high degree of focusing precision. They can leave clear, long-lasting marks on these materials, and are especially suitable for industrial applications that require long-term resistance to rust and oxidation.

Before buying, be clear on your own needs.

The type of material determines the wavelength.

Different metals absorb different wavelengths of light.For example, aluminum alloys absorb 1064-nm fiber lasers better than other materials, and the power parameters of the coating material may need to be adjusted.We recommend that you bring a sample to a supplier to test the effectiveness of the product in person.

The production rhythm affects power distribution.

For small-scale processing, a 20-30 watt model will be adequate, but if you need to mark continuously for eight hours, a model of 50 watts or more will prevent the laser from overheating and shutting down.Don't blindly pursue high power, because it may not be worthwhile in terms of extra electricity and maintenance costs.

These are often overlooked hidden costs.

Find out how frequently the consumables will need to be replaced.

The life span of a laser is usually over 100,000 hours, but the focusing mirror and scanning mirror need to be replaced periodically.Some manufacturers use customized components, and replacement parts for these may cost three to five times as much as those for standard models.

Should software upgrades be sold for a fee?

Nowadays, many machines need to be connected to the MES system, or require customized labeling templates. If the software is upgraded on a per-use basis, then over the long term this will result in hidden expenses.It is best to choose a manufacturer with an open protocol or one that provides free upgrades for life.

Speed of response to after-sales service.

Anyone who has ever had a production line grind to a halt because a labeling machine has broken down can understand how a two-hour response time can be more important than saving US $ 2,000 on the price of a machine.Before signing, you can ask to see a map of the company's service network.