Laser engraving on metal represents an advanced processing technology that is distinguished by its ability to create deep, permanent marks on the surface of metal materials. Unlike laser marking, which is often limited to surface alteration, laser engraving physically removes part of the material, creating grooves and cavities that are not only visible but also perceptible to the touch.
This technology relies on high-power lasers, typically fiber lasers, which allow engravings with varying depths, from a few microns up to several millimeters. The precision of the process, combined with the ability to accurately control the depth of the engraving, makes this technique particularly suitable for applications that require permanent and durable material modifications.
Distinctive features of laser engraving on metal include:
- Creation of deep, defined grooves
- Permanent and wear-resistant result
- Ability to create complex, three-dimensional designs
- Precise control of engraving depth
- No mechanical contact with the surface
- Absence of mechanical stress on the material
How does it work?
The process of laser engraving on metal is based on the use of a high-power laser beam that, concentrated at a precise point, vaporizes the metal material. The laser beam, typically generated by a fiber laser, is focused on the surface with extreme precision, reaching temperatures above the melting point of the metal. The main difference from simple marking lies in the power and time of interaction of the laser with the material:
- The laser progressively removes layers of material
- Engraving depth is controlled through multiple passes of the laser
- The system can modulate power and speed to achieve different depths and finishes
- The process generates a three-dimensional cavity that is visible and perceptible to the touch
LASIT and 3D laser engraving
A particularly advanced aspect of laser engraving on metal involves the processing of three-dimensional surfaces. In this field, the technology must overcome two fundamental limitations: the physical one, related to the inclination of the laser beam, and the mechanical one, determined by the Z-Dynamic stroke. The laser beam, when striking the surface perpendicularly, generates a circular spot with maximum energy concentration, thus ensuring maximum incisiveness on the material.
However, as the angle of incidence deviates from perpendicularity, the spot takes on an increasingly elliptical shape, reducing the energy density and, consequently, the depth of the etch. To overcome these limitations, the most advanced systems use technologies such as “3D Wrapping” combined with “Z-Dynamic,” which make it possible to maintain optimal focus on all points of the surface and achieve geometrically perfect engravings even on complex shapes such as cylindrical, truncated cone or hemispherical surfaces.
LASIT is able to offer state-of-the-art solutions that enable precise, in-focus markings even on cylindrical components or non-planar surfaces.
Easy-check: Laser engraving for wear monitoring
One of the most innovative applications of laser engraving on metal is the monitoring of wear on mechanical components. In this area, laser technology allows for calibrated engravings with tolerances in the order of a few microns. An emblematic example is the use of picosecond fiber lasers, which, thanks to their extremely short pulse duration (3 picoseconds), enable extremely precise and controlled engravings without creating thermally altered areas or remelted material on the surface. This micrometric precision opens up new scenarios in the field of quality control and predictive maintenance, making it possible to monitor the wear of metal components with a level of accuracy previously impossible to achieve. This is why LASIT developed theEasycheck application, currently used in the automotive field for brake discs.
Easy Check is a “calibrated” engraving directly on the braking track of the disc. Depending on the type of brake disc, the Easy Check is engraved with a specific depth target (usually between 50 and 100 µm) and with tolerances on the order of a few Microns. It is also possible to make multiple EasyChecks at different distances from the disc hub so as to monitor any unevenness in wear, just as it is possible to engrave with different depths so as to gradually understand the wear status of the disc.
Laser engraving cast components: post-blasting resistance
Laser engraving on metal has a particular place in the automotive and foundry industries. Because it is deep and therefore highly durable, engraving is suitable in these industries where components are continuously stressed and subjected to high stress.
LASIT has developed a system by which the engraving is legible even after invasive processes such as sandblasting and shot peening. With specific parameters that are set, and high-power lasers (such as 100W, 200W and 300W fiber), we can provide turnkey solutions that are ideal for the smelting industry, ensuring complete traceability of components.
