how to make laser engraving machine

Laser engraving is a process where the laser beam physically removes the surface of the material to expose a cavity that reveals an image at eye level. This creates a cavity in the surface that is noticeable by sight and touch. The process is quick as the excess material is vaporized with each pulse. Several passes may be needed to make deeper marks in the material. The laser creates extremely high temperatures during the engraving process, which essentially causes the material to melt and then vaporize.

What to Use Laser Engraving For

Laser engraving is the most common option for people who want something personalized or customized. There are three types of laser engraving: etching, deep laser engraving, and laser ablation (the difference between the three is what the surface is and how much material you remove). Laser engraving is not ideal for marking safety-critical parts. It is the fastest way to mark something with a laser. The maximum engraving depth is 0.020” in metals but can go as deep as 0.125” in some other materials, such as graphite. It’s great for parts that are expected to experience high wear. It will engrave on almost any kind of metal, plastic, wood, leather, or glass surface. It’s typically used to engrave serial numbers and logos, among other things.

Comparing Laser Engraving to Traditional Engraving

Laser engraving provides you with more font options. It can be done on several materials. It is more legible than traditional engraving on small objects such as jewelry. Laser engraving machines are faster than traditional methods. There is much less chance of the product being damaged or deformed.

Laser Etching Machines

A simple process must be followed to engrave with either the laser or CNC engravers. The engraver must first be connected to a computer. Once this is done, the user can typeset the prepared picture file or path diagram on the computer, and then import it into the engraving machine. However, although both engravers use numerical control systems, they work differently and their mechanical structures also differ.

Laser Engraving

A laser engraver uses a laser, which modifies the material through high temperatures. Therefore, similarly to as can be seen in combustion processes, different combustion chemical reactions will appear on different materials during the work process — each varying depending on the melting point of the material and creating differing cutting effects. Additionally, the cutting process will produce an oily smoke and smell. Laser engraving is a type of non-contact etching, which protects the surface of the engraved material from being scratched. In addition, the laser beam is very thin, so the slit is small and suitable for precision cutting.

CNC Engraving

A CNC router relies on the spindle and bit to work, which, similarly to using a drill bit, can produce dust during the cutting process but will not produce the smoke and smell produced by a laser engraver. The cutting seam of the CNC engraving machine depends on the diameter of the router bit — of which there are many types. Different router bits are used for different materials.

Principle

Laser Engraving

A laser engraving machine emits a high-power density laser beam through the optical path system. The laser beam irradiates the surface of the workpiece until it reaches the melting point or boiling point. At the same time, the high-pressure gas runs coaxially with the beam to blow away the molten or vaporized metal. As the relative positions of the beam and the workpiece move, cutting marks will appear on the material, thereby starting the engraving process.

CNC Engraving

A CNC engraving machine relies on the high-speed, rotating engraving head, which is driven by the motor spindle. The processing material, which is fixed onto the worktable, can then be cut by the cutting tool, which is configured according to the processing material. Various 2D and 3D designs can be realized by creating embossed graphics or text on the computer and then engaging the automatic engraving operation.

Applications

Laser Engraving

The laser engraving machine can only perform cutting and shallow carving on an object’s surface, such as shadow carving to create portraits on marble tombstones. Laser engravers can be roughly divided into non-metal laser engraving machines (CO2 laser engraving machine) and metal laser engraving machines (fiber laser engraving machine).

CNC Engraving

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is an automated machine tool equipped with a simple program control system. The control system logically processes the program using control codes or other symbolic instructions, and then decodes it so that the machine tool can move and process the engraving. The CNC carving machine is relatively simple. Through the control of the computer numerical control system, the machine automatically selects the appropriate bit and tool, and then engraves it along the X, Y, and Z axes of the machine tool.

Cost

The cost of acquiring an engraver determines what a business can and cannot buy. Their prices vary from US$ 1,200 for a 100W laser engraving machine to US$ 15,000 for a 1000W metal engraving machine. In addition to cost, maintenance of the machine is critical as well. The frequency of care may have a considerable impact on a business. Because of this, businesses can look at whether the maintenance of the machine is something that is learnable or strictly requires a professional.

Availability of Support Features Such as Warranty

They are helpful, especially for engraving machines, because of the cost of operating one. Having a warranty is essential as it alleviates repair costs for some time. It also helps the business have a reliable source for maintenance and repair should it be required.

Types of Laser Engraving Machines

There are several types of laser engraving machines based on their mode of operation. They are listed below.

Etching

Laser etching occurs when the laser beam comes into contact with the material and melts it.

In conclusion, laser engraving machines offer a versatile and efficient method for engraving a variety of materials. Understanding the different types of laser engravers, their applications, and the factors to consider when purchasing one can help businesses make informed decisions. Whether for personalizing items or marking industrial parts, laser engravers provide precision and durability that traditional methods cannot match.