Choosing the Right CO2 Laser

The power of a CO2 laser marking machine must be chosen in accordance with the characteristics of the material to be processed and production requirements.Non-metallic materials are suitable for low-to-medium power lasers (30-60 watts), while metals are recommended for medium-to-high power lasers (60-100 watts).When selecting a machine, you need to consider the type of processing, the production efficiency and the budget, to avoid a machine with insufficient power that will produce poor results or a machine with too much power that will be a waste.By adjusting the thickness of the material, the marking speed, and the cost of the equipment, we can find a power configuration that will meet daily needs and be economically practical.

Why is the choice of power output so important?

The power of the CO2 laser marking machine selected directly relates to the marking effect and production efficiency.If the power is too low, it may not be able to engrave deeply enough into the surface of the material. If it is too high, it will waste energy and may even burn the material.For example, delicate materials such as plastics and leather are easily burned by high-powered lasers, while hard materials such as metals and ceramics require high power to leave a mark.

The relationship between materials and power.

Non-metallic materials: More suitable for low-medium power.

Non-metallic materials such as wood, acrylic, and glass can be cut with a laser of 30-60 watts.For example, to carve a wooden gift box, a 50-watt machine can be used to ensure that the lines are clear and the edges are not scorched.But if the stone is thick, it may require more than 80 watts to cut a deep groove.

Metal and composite materials: More stable at mid- to high power.

For marking metal surfaces, which require more energy, he recommends a 60-100 watt machine.An 80-watt machine can quickly and efficiently mark a stainless steel surface with a two-dimensional barcode that will never fade.If the material is a metal plating or an alloy, you can first test the material by using a corner piece to avoid damaging the surface by using too much power.

How do you find the right wattage?

First, let's look at the daily processing requirements.

If the main work is plastic packaging, then 30 to 50 watt machines are enough.But if you will be working with a lot of ceramics or thick glass, it is recommended that you buy an 80-watt model right away so you won't have to upgrade later.

Don't overlook the speed of production.

High-power machines can be used in large-scale production.For example, a 100-watt machine can mark more than 1000 bottle caps in an hour, while a low-power machine would take twice as long.But if you're a small shop doing small orders, there's no need to blindly pursue high power.

The budget and the life of the equipment have to be balanced.

The more powerful the machine, the more expensive it is and the higher the cost for maintenance.For most users, the mainstream power range (50-80 watts) offers the best price-performance ratio. It can handle the most common materials, and the equipment is more stable.Don't let the salespeople talk you into buying the 'top of the line' model. The money you save would be enough to buy two rolls of material!