There are two generally recognized principles:
"Thermal Processing": A laser beam possessing high energy density-essentially a concentrated stream of energy-is directed onto the surface of the material being processed. The material surface absorbs this laser energy, triggering thermal excitation processes within the irradiated zone. This causes the temperature of the material surface (or coating) to rise, leading to phenomena such as phase transformation, melting, ablation, and vaporization.
"Cold Processing": High-energy (ultraviolet) photons are utilized to break chemical bonds within the material (particularly organic materials) or the surrounding medium, thereby causing the material to undergo non-thermal destructive processes. This "cold processing" holds special significance in laser marking applications; rather than relying on thermal ablation, it employs a "cold stripping" mechanism that breaks chemical bonds without generating the side effects of "thermal damage." Consequently, it does not induce heating or thermal deformation in the underlying layers or adjacent areas of the processed surface. For instance, in the electronics industry, excimer lasers are used to deposit thin chemical films onto substrate materials and to cut narrow grooves into semiconductor wafers.
Comparison of Different Marking Methods
Compared to inkjet marking, laser marking and engraving offer distinct advantages: a wide scope of application-enabling permanent, high-quality marks to be applied to a diverse range of materials (including metals, glass, ceramics, plastics, leather, etc.); the absence of physical force exerted on the workpiece surface, thereby preventing mechanical deformation; and the avoidance of any corrosive effects on the material surface.
Product Applications
Capable of engraving a wide variety of non-metallic materials. Applicable across industries such as garment accessories, pharmaceutical packaging, liquor packaging, architectural ceramics, beverage packaging, fabric cutting, rubber products, equipment casings and nameplates, arts and crafts, electronic components, and leather goods.
1. Capable of engraving both metals and a wide range of non-metallic materials. It is particularly well-suited for processing products that demand exceptional fineness and high precision.
2. Applicable to industries including electronic components, integrated circuits (ICs), electrical appliances, mobile communications, hardware products, tool accessories, precision instruments, eyewear and timepieces, jewelry and ornaments, automotive parts, plastic buttons, building materials, PVC piping, and medical devices. 3. Applicable materials include: common metals and alloys (all metals, such as iron, copper, aluminum, magnesium, zinc, etc.); rare metals and alloys (gold, silver, titanium); metal oxides (various types of metal oxides); specially treated surfaces (phosphating, aluminum anodizing, electroplated surfaces); ABS plastics (housings for electrical appliances, daily necessities); inks (translucent buttons, printed products); and epoxy resins (encapsulation of electronic components, insulating layers).
