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TRUMPF laser marking application

Laser marking

Whether it is for data matrix code identification marking of a component, for function-related markings on speedometers and shower heads or for customisation of utility objects such as ID cards or cosmetic articles, their versatility is what distinguishes laser marking procedures above everything else.

If that was not enough. Laser marking meets the more stringent demands on traceability and raw materials, for forgery protection and customised products. Laser marking can even satisfy the request to make a component its own storage medium for the Smart Factory.

How does laser marking work?

Laser marking process TRUMPF

In laser marking, the marking is applied directly onto the surface using an intensive pulsed laser beam. The interaction of the focused beam with the surface leads to a change in the material – for example, discoloration, structuring, engraving or material removal.

The way the material changes depends largely on the wavelength of the laser, the pulse duration and the irradiance of the laser beam.

Procedures in laser marking

Laser marking is a collective term for several procedures: annealing, engraving, black marking, colour change and foaming. But which procedure is most suitable? That depends mainly on the material and the quality requirements of the product in question. This means, for example, that a completely different procedure is suitable for laser marking on metal than for marking plastic.

Find out more about the different laser marking procedures:

 
 
 

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The comparison: laser marking vs. alternative marking procedures

With its many benefits, the laser as a non-contact tool scores highly compared to conventional marking procedures which are based either on paint, chemical reactions or mechanical pressure:

Environmentally friendly

Laser markings are environmentally friendly: lasers do not need expensive and environmentally damaging consumables such as ink or chemicals when marking, unlike etching, inkjet or screen printing procedures.

Gentle on the material

Compared to some other procedures, laser marking is gentle on the material: there is practically no tool or material wear with laser marking.

Long-lasting legibility

Laser markings are long-lasting and high-contrast: compared to many conventional marking procedures, markings with lasers are always easily legible as well as chemically and thermally resistant.

Energy saving

Modern marking lasers consume less energy than a commercial hair dryer which means that they can be operated at very low cost.

What are the advantages of laser marking?

Marking in the industry – that increasingly means marking with lasers. That's because the list of the advantages of laser marking is long.

Manual: Laser marking in brief

Discover the comprehensive manual "Laser marking in brief" and find out about the technical background of the processes and laser systems as well as a guideline on practical marking.
 

Just fill in the form below and receive exclusive background information and more details in our white paper.


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All TRUMPF marking systems at a glance
Laser marking systems

Regardless of whether you are producing small or large-volume components or handling small or large lot sizes – TRUMPF's laser marking systems ensure the best possible ergonomics and safety at all times.

Alle TRUMPF TruMark Beschriftungslaser auf eine Blick
Marking lasers

TRUMPF marking lasers, available in a variety of power classes, are the ideal addition to your laser marking systems. Offering the standard wavelengths, they are perfect for engraving, ablation, annealing, discolouration and foaming.

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