Projects · Real cases
Laser marking on metal for industrial identification plates
Description
Laser marking on metal lets all kinds of parts be personalised with text, logos, numbering, references or other graphic elements, with a precise and professional finish. It is a particularly useful alternative to stamping when variable information or detail needs to be included that would be harder to reproduce with other methods.
Besides identifying industrial and agricultural machinery, the same technology is used to personalise identification plates, commemorative plaques, trophies, keyrings and other metal items.
It works on several materials, such as stainless steel, anodised aluminium, aluminium and mild steel, although the result and the marking options vary with the material, its finish and the characteristics of the part. For aluminium and mild steel it is advisable to check the requirements of the application first, to assess any limitations and the final result.
The project
This project involved making and personalising several models of metal identification plates for industrial machinery, adding the required information by laser marking.
Marking is carried out once the plate has been made, on a dedicated fibre laser marking machine. The laser acts on the surface layers of the material and creates the contrast needed to make text, numbering, logos or other graphic elements visible.
For this kind of application, black anodised aluminium marked in white is a particularly good option: the laser removes the top anodised layer in a controlled way and exposes the metal beneath, giving a clear mark through a fast and cost-effective process.
Depending on the requirements of each plate, stainless steel with black marking is another option, especially where high contrast, a more technical look and a professional finish are wanted.
Applications
• Identification plates for industrial and agricultural machinery.
• Rating plates for machines and equipment.
• Plates with numbering, references and product codes.
• Identification of components and metal parts.
• Plates for control panels and machinery cabinets.
• Industrial laser marking of text, logos and numbering.
• Part marking for traceability and identification.
• Laser-marked anodised aluminium plates.
• Stainless steel plates with black marking.
• Laser marking on mild steel and aluminium, depending on the characteristics and requirements of the application.
• Trophies and commemorative plaques.
• Keyrings and small personalised metal items.
• Identification plates for installations, equipment and products.
Frequently asked questions
What is laser marking on metal?
It is a personalisation process in which a laser acts in a controlled way on the surface of the metal to create a visible contrast or change. It allows text, logos, numbering, references and other elements to be marked very precisely.
Is laser marking the same as laser engraving?
Not exactly. Laser marking usually aims to change the surface to create a visible contrast or finish, whereas engraving removes material and creates depth. That is why the right process has to be chosen for each application.
Which materials can be laser marked?
Several metals can be marked, including stainless steel, aluminium, anodised aluminium and mild steel. The result depends on the composition and surface finish of the material, so it is best to check the specific characteristics before the plate is made.
Which material do you recommend for a machinery identification plate?
For a black mark with very good contrast, stainless steel is one of the best options. Anodised aluminium also gives very good results and allows fast, economical marking, especially in large quantities.
Is laser marking permanent?
The mark is superficial and changes the outer layer of the material. How long it lasts depends on the material, the finish and the conditions the part is used in. If the plate will be exposed to abrasion, chemicals or particularly demanding conditions, the application needs to be assessed first.
Can laser marking replace stamping?
In some applications, yes. They are two different techniques, each with its own advantages and limitations. Laser marking is especially useful for adding detailed information, numbering or variable data without having to make a specific die.
Can each plate carry different logos and numbers?
Yes. One of the main strengths of industrial laser marking is that every part can be personalised with different information, such as serial numbers, references, models, logos or traceability data.
Do you need a laser-marked metal plate?
We can look at the material, thickness, finish, design and information to be marked to find the most suitable solution. If you are unsure whether laser marking or stamping suits you better, get in touch and we will advise you based on how the part will be used and what it needs to meet.
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