At Etched, we are experts in a wide variety of etching and engraving techniques to create custom industrial tags and nameplates. Each process type has unique advantages and disadvantages. One of the most durable and precise methods is laser engraving. In this blog post, our experts explain what the process involves and what applications it’s best suited for.

What is laser engraving?

Laser engraving machines use a fiber or CO2 laser to create high-contrast marks on materials such as stainless steel, wood, plastic, acrylic, and glass. The laser heats the material until it vaporizes, leaving a precise mark that can be used to create logos, text, or other graphics.

What is the difference between fiber and CO2 lasers?

We can use either fiber lasers or CO2 lasers for your industrial tag engraving. Fiber lasers are typically preferred for stainless steel, aluminum, and other metals. They engrave with higher precision and greater depth compared to CO2 lasers. Fiber laser markings are high contrast, but have a dark brown color rather than a true black.

CO2 lasers are often preferred for plastic substrates. They create durable, true black marks on the surface of the substrate that are slightly less resistant to abrasion.

What are the benefits of laser engraving?

Laser engraving is one of the most effective process options for industrial tags, nameplates, data plates, and more. Advantages include:

• Permanence: Laser markings are durable and will remain legible for a long time, even in harsh industrial environments.
• Minimal surface treatment: Once engraved, your industrial tags and nameplates will require minimal maintenance.
• High resolution and precision: If you want to engrave diagrams or custom graphics onto your industrial plates, the precise markings of laser engraving are an effective solution.

What substrates support laser engraving?

The Etched team can laser engrave tags and nameplates on any substrate, including stainless steel, aluminum, anodized aluminum, and plastic.

Etched laser engraving solutions

There are a number of industrial applications of laser engraving, including:

Industrial tags, nameplates, and data plates

Use laser engraving to customize industrial tags, nameplates, and data plates. These industrial labels are essential for communicating compliance, safety, branding, and operational information on your worksite. Laser engraving will keep your tags and nameplates legible for years or decades to come.

Compliance and safety plates

Compliance and safety plates are crucial for a number of industries, especially hearth and home. Fiber or CO2 lasers can engrave information about your products’ CSA, ETL, and UL certifications.

Control panels

Control panels communicate important operating instructions on your worksite. Order laser engraved custom control panels to improve productivity and reduce risk.

Want to learn more?

If you have questions about laser engraving or whether it is the right choice for your project, our experts would love to talk with you. Contact us today!