Laser Marking Aluminum

Laser Marking Aluminum

At Hai Tech Laser, Inc., we are a premier provider of industrial laser fabrication solutions. One of our core service offerings is laser marking, which enables us to produce permanent markings on various objects. The process is suitable for use on a wide range of metal and non-metal substrates, including aluminum.

Below, we provide an overview of the aluminum laser marking process, including what it is, the benefits of using aluminum, and the typical applications of laser marked aluminum.

An Overview of Aluminum Laser Marking

Laser marking is a non-contact, non-subtractive manufacturing process that produces permanent or semi-permanent markings on the surface of an object. Unlike laser engraving, which uses a laser to vaporize material from the surface, it uses a laser to add discoloration to the surface. The discolored areas form the desired markings, which are highly visible and durable. These qualities make the process suitable for marking components used in a variety of industries and applications.

Aluminum is one of the most commonly used materials in laser marking operations. It is strong, durable, and corrosion resistant, which results in long-lasting manufactured parts and products. The markings produced on it vary depending on the laser marking equipment and parameters used. For example, lower intensities result in white markings, while higher intensities result in dark gray or charcoal colored markings.

Benefits of Laser Marking Aluminum

Laser marking offers numerous benefits over other marking methods when used to process aluminum. For example:

• It produces highly visible and durable markings. The laser marking process forms markings that are permanent or semi-permanent. They can withstand exposure to harsh conditions (e.g., abrasives, chemicals, and heat) much better than markings produced by other methods (e.g., inking or painting). Additionally, depending on the base substrate, they can have high contrast, making them easy for humans or machines to read.
• It offers fast marking speeds. Laser marking units can mark objects with high-contrast designs, and are much faster than other methods.
• It accommodates a variety of objects. Objects in various shapes and sizes—from small to large and simple to complex—can be permanently or semi-permanently marked using laser marking equipment.
• It carries little risk of mechanical damage. As a non-contact marking process, laser marking does not require direct contact between the laser marking unit and the workpiece, which minimizes the risk of the material experiencing mechanical damage or distortion.
• It poses minimal threat to the environment. Laser marking does not require the use of inks, paints, and other chemical solutions, unlike traditional marking methods. As a result, there is no risk of chemical spills or waste that can negatively impact the environment.

Applications of Laser Marked Aluminum

Due to its light weight, high strength, and corrosion resistance, aluminum is utilized for the parts and products of a variety of applications and industries. Examples of typical laser marked designs added to components include:

• 2D data matrix codes
• Barcodes
• Graphical elements
• Logos
• Machine identifiers
• Serial numbers

Aluminum Laser Marking Services at Hai Tech Lasers

Trying to find a partner for your next aluminum laser marking project? Turn to the laser fabrication experts at Hai Tech Lasers! To learn more about our laser marking services, visit our laser marking page or contact us today. To discuss your specific laser marking requirements with one of our team members, request a quote.