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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 customization 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 customized 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, color 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:

Annealing a workpiece in the TruMark Station 5000
Annealing

Colored annealing can be created by the laser beam heating up the workpiece to a certain temperature at the point where the marking is required. This creates an oxide film on the surface with properties which determine the color impression.

Discoloration of plastic
Laser marking plastic

Not just laser marking plastic components permanently and flexibly, but also in a way that is gentle on the materials and protects the environment. This is due to the fact that - compared to conventional marking procedures - no templates or consumables such as ink are required.

Better component traceability thanks to marked data matrix codes
Laser engraving

The laser beam removes material during engraving. This creates a depression in the workpiece - the engraving.

Close-up of the surface structure of blackmarking
Black marking

Black marking is a procedure in laser processing which causes extremely dark, high-contrast markings on a surface without material ablation.

Laser marking of copper

Copper - a key material for many industries, but highly reflective and therefore not easy to process. Find out here how high-quality markings and engravings on copper can be achieved using lasers.

Laser marking of electronic components

The laser's properties make it ideal for marking the smallest and most sensitive electronic components. The laser can be used flexibly to permanently mark not only printed circuit boards (PCBs), but also semi-conductors and flame-retardant plastics.

Find your perfect marking laser.

Find out which marking laser is best suited to you - just start the TruMark product finder!

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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. Because the list of the advantages of laser marking is long.

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All TRUMPF marking systems at a glance
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, discoloration, and foaming.

Close-up of the surface structure of blackmarking
Black marking

Due to extremely short laser pulses, you can create durable and deep-black markings without damaging the material surface through ablation. The perfect procedure for creating corrosion-resistant markings, for example in the medical technology sector.

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