Here is a structured breakdown of Laser Marking Machines covering their types, key features, and industrial applications, especially relevant for traceability, branding, and compliance in Indian manufacturing environments.
What Is a Laser Marking Machine?
A laser marking machine uses a focused beam of light to permanently mark the surface of a material. Unlike printing or labeling, it alters the material itself through heat, oxidation, or ablation, creating high-contrast, durable marks like barcodes, serial numbers, logos, or QR codes.
Types of Laser Marking Machines
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Type
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Wavelength / Mechanism
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Best For
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Fiber Laser
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~1070 nm (high power)
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Metals, plastics, PCBs, automotive parts
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CO Laser
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~10,600 nm
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Wood, glass, paper, leather, ceramics
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|
UV Laser
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~355 nm (low heat)
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Heat-sensitive materials like plastics, glass
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|
Green Laser
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~532 nm
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Reflective metals, semiconductors, jewelry
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|
MOPA Fiber Laser
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Adjustable pulse width
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Color marking on stainless steel, fine detail
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For harsh industrial environments (e.g. sanitaryware, PCBs, gas cylinders), Fiber and MOPA lasers are preferred due to their precision and durability.
Key Features
- Marking Speed: Up to 7000 mm/s depending on material and resolution
- Resolution: 0.01 mm or better; ideal for micro-text and 2D codes
- Depth Control: Surface marking to deep engraving (up to 1 mm)
- Software Integration: Compatible with BarTender, NiceLabel, and ERP/WMS systems
- Cooling System: Air-cooled (compact) or water-cooled (high-power)
- Automation Ready: PLC integration, rotary axis, conveyor sync
- Maintenance: Minimal, no consumables, no contact wear
Industrial Applications
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Sector
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Use Cases
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Automotive
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VIN marking, component traceability, branding
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Electronics
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PCB serials, connector ID, anti-counterfeit codes
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Medical Devices
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UDI codes, surgical tool marking, compliance labeling
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Aerospace
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Part identification, MIL-STD-130N compliance
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Packaging
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Batch codes, expiry dates, barcodes on cartons and pouches
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Jewelry
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Hallmarking, personalization, micro-engraving
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Would you like a comparison matrix of fiber vs CO vs UV lasers for your specific use case? Contact us today.