Laser technology is a very effective method for metal engraving. It is capable of providing high accuracy compared to other methods. Its fine laser can also create various detailed designs on plenty of materials. With the growing popularity of metal crafts among customers, many artisans are looking to expand their offerings with more captivating metal designs. But is there a laser engraver suitable for metal? And which type of laser engraver works best for this material?
In this article, we will find out the correct answer to these questions. You have three main options: Fiber, CO2, and diode lasers. Each laser source is suitable for specific engraving jobs. This article discusses the facts behind the suitability of these lasers to engrave on metals.
Part 1. Can Lasers Work on Metal?
Yes, lasers can work on metal. In fact, laser engraving is one of the most efficient ways to engrave and cut metal.
Lasers are highly focused light beams made through various laser sources. In today's world, three laser sources are the most common: CO2, diode, and fiber Lasers. Each type of laser behaves differently on metals.
The typical working principle of lasers on metal starts with producing the laser. Each laser source produces a laser beam differently. The CO2 laser source produces the laser from a gas mixing tube. On the other hand, fiber and diode laser sources produce lasers from semiconductor diodes. Fiber optic cable is additionally used in fiber laser sources to change and amplify the laser wavelength.
When the laser hits a metal surface, the temperature instantly increases in that area. This temperature value is mainly dependent on the laser power. However, when this temperature rises above the melting point, the metal particles melt quickly and become vapor. Consistently, a trench is created in the direction the laser travels. This is how laser engraving or cutting on metal is done.
You can work with almost all types of metals. Most people use lasers to engrave steel, aluminum, brass, copper, and titanium. A laser engraver for metal is widely used in many industries. Automotive, aerospace, and marine industries use this technology to create metal parts. Besides, many manufacturing industries use it to mark serial numbers, bar codes, and other product information.
Part 2. What Type of Laser Is Best for Cutting Metal?
Understanding how different lasers behave on metals is necessary to know which type is best for cutting metal. A laser cutter machine for metal must have the following characteristics:
- A laser engraver for metal must have a high laser power density.
- The ideal wavelength for metal engraving is 1.064 micrometers.
- A laser cutter machine for metal must create excellent beam quality to create intricate and highly detailed cuts.
- A laser engraver for metal must produce laser beams that won't reflect on shiny metal surfaces.
A CO2 laser's typical wavelength is 10.6 micrometers. Metals cannot absorb this wavelength, so the temperature cannot rise at the projected area. As a result, CO2 lasers are generally ineffective for cutting metals without special coatings or treatments.
Diode lasers produce laser wavelengths from 0.8 to 1 micrometer. Metals can easily absorb this wavelength, and you can perform cutting on metal. However, diode lasers are only limited to low-power applications.
On the whole, when it comes to cutting metal, people prefer fiber laser cutters. The fiber laser's wavelength ranges from 0.8 to 2.2 micrometers, which fits the ideal wavelength for metal engraving. Additionally, you can amplify this laser to achieve high-power-focused laser beams, which can easily cut through metals.
Part 3. What Type of Laser Is Best for Engraving on Metal?
All three types of lasers—fiber, CO2, and diode lasers—can be used to work with different metal products. However, when it comes to the best laser for metal engraving, a fiber laser is always the best option.
You may wonder how a CO2 laser can engrave on metal. Well, it is possible only if the metal part has coatings. Most metal parts are either painted or e-coated. You can use a CO2 laser to remove this coating and create a mark on metal products. Therefore, you can also call it a metal laser marking machine. A CO2 laser engraver is also widely used to mark logos, serial numbers, or designs on many regular metal items. Typical examples include tumblers, car parts, and many more.
You could also use diode lasers to engrave on metal. As mentioned, their laser wavelength is easily absorbable on metal surfaces but is limited to low-power applications. You can use this laser, just like CO2 lasers, to create markings on coated metal products.
Fiber lasers are ideal for direct marking on metals. This laser metal engraving machine can create all-purpose engravings and cuttings for metal products. A fiber laser engraver for metal is perfect for marking in stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and titanium.
Part 4. Tips for Laser Cutting and Engraving on Metal
A laser engraver for metal can significantly benefit small businesses and hobbyists who regularly produce metal parts. This machine is versatile and straightforward to use. You might already have some basic knowledge of cutting and engraving metal. Yet, the following tips can help you achieve the best possible result.
Tip #1. Choose the Right Laser Power
The laser power typically depends on three factors: size, material, and application.
Firstly, for larger objects, you might need to engrave faster. So, the quicker you cut or engrave, the more laser power you need.
Secondly, the laser power heavily depends on the type of metal.
Thirdly, laser power also depends on the type of application. A typical 20W to 50W metal laser engraver is enough for laser engraving jobs, but you will need more power for cutting work.
Tip #2. Use a Masking Tape, Specially on Reflective Materials
Use masking tape for reflective metals like brass, stainless steel, or chrome. It typically prevents the laser from scratching. Because of this, you can ensure more precise cuts and reduce glare.
Tip #3. Prepare the Metal Surface
Clean the metal surface thoroughly to remove dirt, grease, or contamination. These contaminants may interfere with the laser work, affecting the engraving or cutting quality.
Tip #4. Always Perform a Test Cut
Before engraving the final piece, always perform a test cut on scrap metal. Based on the test results, try to fine-tune your laser settings.
Conclusion
Laser is one of the most effective methods of metal cutting and engraving. When considering different types of lasers, fiber lasers are the best for cutting ane engraving metal because they have a very suitable laser wavelength. CO2 and diode lasers, on the other hand, are limited by either wavelength or power.
During laser cutting and engraving, always focus on optimizing the laser settings. Try to conduct a test cut before doing the actual cut. Above all, if you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
