The core difference of laser marking machines lies in the laser wavelength. The interaction between different wavelengths and materials determines the marking effect, accuracy and efficiency. Ultraviolet (UV), fiber (Fiber) and CO₂ laser are the three mainstream technologies at present, but many companies are still confused when selecting. This article will thoroughly compare the characteristics of these three types of lasers and provide material matching guidelines to help you avoid millions of losses from “buying the wrong equipment”.
1. The core differences between the three major lasers
2. Material matching guide: Which laser is more suitable?
1.Metal materials (stainless steel/aluminum/titanium, etc.)
First choice: Fiber laser
Advantages: The wavelength of 1064nm is easily absorbed by metal, with clear marking and no damage to the substrate.
Case: Stainless steel parameter nameplate with QR code or barcode (requires corrosion resistance).
Choose carefully: UV laser
Only suitable for special scenarios (such as fine markings of coated metal), but costly.
2.Plastics and polymers (ABS/PC/PMMA, etc.)
Transparent/light color plastic: UV laser
Cold processing avoids hot deformation and marks without burn marks on the edges (such as mobile phone case LOGO).
Dark plastic: Fiber laser
Carbon absorbs infrared light and can generate high contrast marks (such as car buttons).
CO₂Laser Applicability:
Only some plastics (such as PP), but are prone to melting and deformation
3. Glass and Ceramics
Only option: UV laser
Short wavelengths can be “crack-free” marks (CO₂ and fibers can cause bursts).
Application: wine bottle anti-counterfeiting code, mobile phone glass back plate serial number.
4. Non-metal (wood/leather/paper)
CO₂Absolute Advantages of Laser
The wavelength of 10.6μm is highly absorbed by organic matter and can be engraved/cut (such as wooden gift engraving).
Note: Metal cannot be marked and the accuracy is lower than UV/fiber.
3. Key indicators for selection: What else should I look at besides the materials?
1. Production demand
Batch high-speed marking: fiber laser (such as auto parts assembly line);
High-precision micro-engraving: ultraviolet laser (such as chip QR code).
2. Cost considerations
Equipment price: UV > Fiber > CO₂;
Consumables cost: CO₂ requires regular gas exchange, and the cost of optical fiber protection is the lowest.
3. Environmental requirements
UV lasers need to be dust-proof and constant temperature environment, CO₂ lasers are sensitive to humidity
4. Common selection misunderstandings and pit avoidance guide
Misunderstanding 1: “The higher the power, the better”
Fact: UV laser 3W may be more suitable for fine plastic marking than fiber 30W.
Misconception 2: “One device takes all the materials”
Solution: Multi-material production is recommended for “optical fiber + ultraviolet” dual-unit assembly.
Misunderstanding 3: “Ignore the surface treatment of materials”
For example: the frequency of anodized aluminum needs to be adjusted to avoid burning.
5. Industry application cases
Electronics industry: iPhone internal component marking (ultraviolet laser, anti-static damage);
Jewelry industry: precious metal anti-counterfeiting coding (fiber laser, no heat-affected zone);
Packaging industry: Drug box traceability code (CO₂ laser, high-speed non-contact).
6. Summarize
The essence of choosing a laser marking machine is “dialogue between wavelength and material”.
suggestion:
- First clarify the main processing materials;
- Test and proofing (compare different lasers for the same material);
- Assess long-term costs (equipment + maintenance + energy consumption).