Unlocking Precision and Versatility: Deep Engraving of Metals

In our latest exploration of laser applications, we delve into the intricate world of metal engraving and deep engraving using a MOPA laser. At Trotec, we continually push the boundaries of laser technology, and in this article, we're excited to share insights on the nuanced art of engraving metals.

Laser Engraving: Precision at Its Peak

Engraving, at its core, involves the precise removal of material from a solid surface. The sheer intensity of the laser, especially with our advanced MOPA laser boasting up to 10 kW peak power, enables the direct vaporization of materials like steel, titanium, and virtually all metals. This is achieved through a potent combination of high pulse power and a minimal laser spot diameter, ensuring remarkable precision (~45 μm with the F-160 lens).

With this capability, a myriad of elements such as texts, logos, serial numbers, or intricate designs can be engraved onto metal surfaces. The process induces a change in the material's color and a reduction in volume, resulting in brown areas formed by metal oxides, which can be easily cleaned with a subsequent polishing cycle.

For stainless steel engraving, achieving optimal results necessitates high power, low frequency, and marking speeds ranging from 250 to 900 mm/sec.

Deep engraving of stainless steel

The laser process for deep engraving is fundamentally identical to engraving, but with more passes. In these tips we describe two different sets of parameters:

• Time-optimized
• Quality-optimized

Please note that the set of parameters used to achieve optimal quality (2) takes about three times as long to reach the same engraving depth. A 20 watt?MOPA laser ?with F-160 lens is used in both cases. The time-optimized engraving results are shown at the top of the image, and the quality-optimized engraving results are shown at the bottom.

1. Time-optimized laser parameters

In the first step, deep engraving is carried out in the fastest time possible. The laser parameters are chosen so that the desired engraving depth (in this case: 200 μm) is achieved as quickly as possible. The quality of the deep engraving is not taken into consideration here. This results in a warp of up to 100 μm. The engraving depth ranges from the desired 200 μm to 240 μm.

2. Quality-optimized laser parameters

In the second step, deep engraving is carried out with the best possible quality. The laser parameters are selected to ensure that the desired engraving depth (also 200 μm) is achieved together with the best quality. This increases the engraving time threefold, but it also means there is no warping. The engraving depth ranges from the desired 200 μm to max. 220 μm.

The following parameters are used:

Multiple Possibilities Unveiled

We are happy to advise you.

The presented examples showcase the versatility of deep engraving on metals. Tailoring parameters to specific requirements opens up a spectrum of possibilities. The time-optimized variant efficiently evaporates material in fewer passes, while the quality-optimized variant utilizes more rapid passes, ensuring uniform and controlled material removal.

Our experts are poised to guide you through this journey. Feel free to contact us regarding your requirements, and we're ready to sample your materials, unlocking the full potential of metal engraving.