Understanding lasers (II)
The
Possibilities
Lasers, due to their unique blend of speed
and versatility are currently used in a variety of industries to engrave and
cut a variety of materials. Here are the most popular:
Acrylic
Since lasers were first used for engraving, acrylic has been a favorite.
Combining the beauty of glass with the durability of plastic makes it a viable
option for many applications including awards, executive desk items, signage,
display cases, and frames. Acrylic is manufactured in a wide
range of colors, shapes and products. Acrylic can also be cut using a laser.
With a 25 watt system you can cut up to 1/8 thick or thinner pieces.
¼ pieces will cut through with a 50 watt system and for ½
consider 100 watts of power. Popular applications for cut acrylic
include letters and a variety of shapes.
Glass
Many engravers have discovered that a laser can produce a light surface
etch on glass that is attractive for many applications. Wine bottles, stemware, vases and
picture frame glass can all be laser engraved. When engraving on glass, however,
be careful. Some glass, that which
has a high lead content, may be prone to shattering and/or cracking.
It is always best to experiment and always ask for extra pieces when
possible.
Hard
Surfaced Materials
Hard surfaced materials such as Corian can be laser engraved and are also
used for a range of applications including plaques, awards, and signage. Such
material engraves well and is also extremely durable. Such materials do require
color filling because of the lack of contrast.
Leather
Leather, when laser engraved, can produce some unique and interesting effects.
Items such as belts, hats, watch bands, etc. are some of the many applications
for laser engraved leather. When choosing leather for laser engraving, be aware
that leather products tend to vary. Therefore, laser engraving results will
also vary. It is important to experiment first and to stick with products that
laser engrave well. Leather also tends to put off offensive
odors when exposed to the heat of a laser. Therefore, a good working exhaust
system is essential to removing the vaporized material and fumes to the outside.
Marble
Marble is another great choice for laser engravers. Its' natural beauty
makes it appealing for both awards and gift ideas. When choosing marble for laser engraving,
look for pieces that allow for contrast. Marble is another material that
also lends itself well to the addition of color.
Metals
While engraving on bare metals
has always been a challenge when using a CO2 laser engraving system, coated
or painted metals do engrave well using this type of laser. In fact, today's laserable coated
metals are attractive to the laser engraver because they are polished and lacquered
prior to applying the outer layer of paint. This results in engraving that is
crisp and ready immediately after engraving. The lacquering also prevents the
engraved area(s) from oxidizing. Today's laser engravable coated metals come
in a wide range of metals, shapes, colors, and designs that can be
used for a wide range of applications.
Additionally,
there is now an option for engraving on some bare metals. Dmc2, (formerly Cerdec ) offers a spray, which when applied
to certain bare metals, prior to engraving, will fuse with the metal and allow
the laser beam to produce a dark permanent mark. While this does not work on all
applications, it does allow some metal products to be engraved with a CO2 laser.
Plastic
There are a variety of plastics that both laser engrave and laser cut with
great results. Manufacturers of plastic materials have created a new generation
of laserable plastics with thin outer layers that are easily removed by laser.
This has resulted in less melting, scorching, and discoloration associated with
earlier laser engraving of plastic materials. Today's laser engravable plastics
come in a range of colors and patterns and are used for signage, plaques, nametags,
and ad specialty items.
Wood
Laser engraved wood still produces results that are popular for a variety
of purposes including trophy bases, desk accessories, plaques, awards, and bats.
Make sure you look for woods that provide contrast when engraved. Favorites
include oak, walnut, maple, cherry, and mahogany. There are also a variety of
exotic woods available, too. When purchasing wooden products for laser engraving,
look for products that are sold as laser engravable. This will ensure that any stains,
bleaches, oils, etc. used in finishing the wood will not cause adverse reactions
when exposed to the heat of a laser.
Other
There are a also a variety of other materials out there that are laser friendly.
This includes vinyls, rubber stamp material, matboard, paper, synthetic
marbles and stones, synthetic woods, cork, and gasket materials. When shopping
for products, try to stick with products sold as laser engravable. Not only will this assure that the
material will engrave or cut favorably, but the material manufacturer may also
provide you with recommended settings and other tips to use when laser processing
their products.
Conclusion
Laser processing lends itself to a range of versatile materials, with more
constantly being developed. Dont
forget to always experiment for best results and use trade shows, trade journals,
and online searches to keep up with new possibilities.
This way, you can continue to provide your customers with the latest
materials that the industry has to offer.
By Diane C. Bosworth