Manufacturers need clear and lasting marks on metal and other materials. Marks made with shallow engraving often fade or wear off quickly. This can cause problems with tracking products, maintaining brand identity, and meeting regulations. Deep laser engraving solves these problems by producing sharp and permanent marks that resist wear.
This technique also offers clear benefits for industrial use. Let’s examine it more closely.
What is Deep Laser Engraving?
Deep laser engraving is a process where a focused laser beam removes layers of material to create a mark below the surface. The laser generates heat, vaporizing the material and cutting deeper with each pass. Depending on the material and settings, the engraving can range from a few microns to several millimeters deep.
The extra depth makes these engravings resistant to wear, corrosion, and fading. That’s why deep laser engraving is commonly used for identification codes, serial numbers, and safety information that need to stay readable for years. It can also create high-contrast logos and decorative patterns that stay sharp even after frequent handling.
In contrast, surface engraving only affects the top layer of material. These shallow marks may look clear at first, but they wear down quickly when exposed to abrasion, chemicals, or heat. Deep laser engraving goes below the surface, giving the marks real strength and durability.
Core Principles of Deep Laser Engraving
Deep laser engraving creates lasting marks by removing material layer by layer. It works best when you balance power, speed, and focus.
The Science of Laser-Material Interaction
A laser beam is a concentrated form of light energy. When it hits a material, the energy is absorbed and turns into heat. This heat melts, vaporizes, or removes the surface layer. With repeated pulses, the laser removes more material, creating a cavity that forms the engraving.
Different materials respond to laser energy in various ways. Metals like stainless steel and aluminum reflect a lot of light, so higher power is needed for deeper cuts. Plastics, ceramics, and coated surfaces absorb energy differently, which changes engraving speed and depth.
Depth Control and Precision in Engraving
The engraving depth is controlled by adjusting laser settings. Power, pulse frequency, speed, and focus determine how far the laser cuts into the material. Slower speed and higher power keep the beam on the surface longer, removing more layers. Multiple passes can also increase depth without damaging the material.
Precision comes from computer-controlled systems that guide the laser along programmed paths. Manufacturers can engrave fine text, detailed patterns, and small codes that remain readable. Modern equipment can control tolerances down to microns, giving high accuracy for industries that require consistency.
Types of Laser Systems for Deep Engraving
Different laser systems are used for deep engraving, and each has strengths suited to specific materials and applications. The choice of laser affects the speed, depth, and quality of the engraving.
Láseres de fibra
Fiber lasers are the most common choice for deep engraving on metals. They produce a high-energy beam with a short wavelength, which metals like stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and titanium absorb well.
Fiber lasers are efficient and have a long service life. They can engrave quickly while maintaining accuracy. They also handle a wide range of engraving depths—from shallow surface marks to deep cuts that remain readable even after years of use.
Láseres de CO₂
CO₂ lasers use a longer wavelength and are best for non-metallic materials. They work well on plastics, wood, glass, ceramics, and coated surfaces. While they can engrave certain metals with coatings or treatments, they are less effective on bare metals compared to fiber lasers.
For deep engraving, CO₂ lasers are perfect for marking organic materials. They are commonly used in branding, labeling, and decorative patterns on non-metal products. These lasers create smooth edges and detailed designs, making them popular outside heavy metal applications.
UV and Green Lasers
UV and green lasers are designed for very fine detail and minimal heat impact. Their shorter wavelengths make them suitable for sensitive materials like plastics, glass, semiconductors, and some coated metals.
These lasers focus on precision rather than speed or depth. While they can engrave deeper on some materials, their main strength is creating micro engravings with high clarity.
Process Workflow for Deep Laser Engraving
A consistent workflow is key to producing high-quality, repeatable engravings. Careful follow-through of each step ensures the best results.
Design Preparation and File Setup
The process starts with preparing a digital design file. This file can include text, serial numbers, barcodes, or logos. Vector-based formats like DXF, AI, or SVG are commonly used because they allow precise control over shapes and lines.
Once the design is ready, it is imported into the laser control software. Parameters such as engraving depth, line spacing, and fill patterns are set. Proper setup ensures the design is accurately translated onto the material without distortion.
Calibración y puesta a punto de la máquina
Before engraving begins, the machine must be calibrated. The operator adjusts the laser’s focus, power, and speed according to the material type and thickness. Correct focus ensures the beam hits the surface at maximum intensity, improving depth and efficiency.
The workpiece is then secured to prevent movement. Fixtures, clamps, or custom jigs are often used, especially in high-volume production. This step helps maintain consistency and avoid errors during engraving.
Multi-Pass Engraving Techniques
Deep engraving usually requires multiple passes. Each pass removes a thin layer of material, allowing the laser to cut deeper without causing heat damage. Multiple passes also help maintain sharp edges and prevent surface cracks.
Settings can be adjusted between passes to refine depth and detail. For example, higher power and slower speed may be used in early passes, while lower power and faster speed are applied for finishing. This approach improves both depth and surface quality.
Post-Processing and Surface Treatment
Post-processing is often needed after engraving. Cleaning removes debris, soot, or oxide layers left by the laser. Common methods include brushing, ultrasonic cleaning, or compressed air.
Some applications also use tratamientos superficiales to enhance contrast or protect the engraving. Options include pulido, cuadro, anodizado, or protective coatings. For metals, chemical treatments can darken the engraving, making it easier to read.
Materials Suitable for Deep Laser Engraving
Deep laser engraving works on a wide range of materials, but the choice of material influences depth, speed, and overall quality. Some materials are naturally better suited for creating long-lasting and readable marks.
Metales
- Steel (including stainless)
- Aluminio
- Titanio
- Latón
- Copper (with specific settings)
Plásticos y polímeros
- abdominales
- Delrin (POM)
- policarbonato
- Acrílico (PMMA)
- Some engineered plastics
Cerámica y Vidrio
- Aluminio anodizado
- Ceramic tiles
- Glass (requires controlled settings to prevent cracking)
- Stone and marble
Materiales especiales y compuestos
- Compuestos de fibra de carbono
- Coated metals
- Laminated plastics
- Technical ceramics
Advantages of Deep Laser Engraving
Deep laser engraving offers several benefits that make it a dependable way to create permanent marks. Its durability, precision, and versatility make it valuable across industries that need lasting identification and branding.
Durabilidad
Because the laser cuts below the surface, the marks resist wear, corrosion, and fading. They remain readable even in harsh environments with heat, friction, or chemical exposure. Serial numbers, safety labels, and barcodes can last for years, supporting traceability and compliance.
Proceso sin contacto
Deep laser engraving is a non-contact method. The laser does not physically touch the material, so there is no tool wear or mechanical stress. This reduces the risk of damage, especially on thin or delicate parts. It also lowers the chance of contamination, which is important in aerospace, electronics, and medical applications.
Alta precisión
Laser systems provide excellent accuracy. Computer-controlled paths allow for detailed designs, small text, and sharp edges. This precision makes it possible to engrave complex patterns or microcodes that remain clear under magnification. It is ideal for parts requiring tight tolerances or high-quality branding.
Flexibilidad
Deep laser engraving works on many materials, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. It can produce marks of varying depths, from shallow decorative designs to deep industrial engravings. The same system can handle logos, serial numbers, or functional markings, making it adaptable for a wide range of industries.
Key Parameters for Deep Laser Engraving
The quality and depth of deep laser engraving rely on several important parameters. Correctly adjusting these factors helps operators achieve sharp, durable, and consistent results across different materials.
Potencia láser
Laser power is the main factor controlling engraving depth. Higher power removes more material per pass, creating deeper engravings. Too much power, however, can generate excess heat, which may damage or warp the surface. Operators balance power with speed and the number of passes to reach the desired depth while maintaining quality.
Lente
The lens focuses the laser beam onto the material. A high-quality lens concentrates the beam into a precise spot. Different lenses have different focal lengths, which affect depth and resolution. Short focal lengths produce finer details but shallower engravings, while longer focal lengths allow deeper cuts with slightly lower detail. The choice of lens depends on whether detail or depth is the priority.
Scanning Speed
Scanning speed determines how fast the laser moves across the surface. Slower speeds keep the beam in contact with the material longer, removing more layers in one pass. Faster speeds reduce depth but increase productivity. For deep engraving, operators typically use lower speeds and multiple passes to achieve clean, precise results.
Line Width
Line width refers to the spacing and thickness of each engraved line. Narrow lines allow fine detail but may need more passes to reach depth. Wider lines remove more material faster but may reduce clarity for small text or intricate patterns. Adjusting line width helps balance detail, depth, and engraving time.
Aplicaciones en todos los sectores
Deep laser engraving is used across many industries where permanent, high-quality markings are needed. Its versatility makes it useful for both functional and decorative purposes.
Automotor
In the automotive industry, deep laser engraving is used for VIN plates, engine parts, and safety labels. These marks must resist heat, friction, and chemicals. Deep engraving ensures serial numbers and part identifiers stay readable for the vehicle’s lifetime. It is also used for branding, such as logos on metal trims or decorative components.
Joyería
Jewelry makers use deep laser engraving to add detailed patterns, logos, or serial numbers on gold, silver, platinum, or titanium pieces. The process produces precise, clean engravings without harming delicate surfaces. It also allows customization on small surfaces, making personalized designs and branding possible.
Dispositivos médicos
Medical devices require permanent markings for traceability and regulatory compliance. Deep laser engraving is applied to surgical instruments, implants, and medical equipment. The marks stay clear even after repeated sterilization and use, ensuring safety and accurate product identification.
Industrial Tooling
Industrial tooling often uses deep engraving for serial numbers, measurement indicators, and identification codes on machinery parts. These engravings withstand heavy wear, exposure to lubricants, and mechanical impact, keeping markings legible over long service periods.
Señalización
Deep engraving benefits signage and nameplates by producing durable, high-contrast text and graphics. Metals, plastics, and composites can be engraved for industrial, commercial, or decorative applications. This ensures signs and labels remain visible even in harsh outdoor conditions.
Conclusión
Deep laser engraving is a precise and durable method for marking metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. It produces deep, permanent marks that resist wear, heat, and chemicals. By adjusting laser power, speed, lens, and line width, operators can achieve high accuracy, fine detail, and flexibility across many applications.
For strong, long-lasting engravings on your products, Contacte con nosotros para hablar de su proyecto y encontrar una solución adaptada a sus necesidades.
Hola, soy Kevin Lee
Durante los últimos 10 años, he estado inmerso en diversas formas de fabricación de chapa metálica, compartiendo aquí ideas interesantes de mis experiencias en diversos talleres.
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Kevin Lee
Tengo más de diez años de experiencia profesional en la fabricación de chapas metálicas, especializada en corte por láser, plegado, soldadura y técnicas de tratamiento de superficies. Como Director Técnico de Shengen, me comprometo a resolver complejos retos de fabricación y a impulsar la innovación y la calidad en cada proyecto.
