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Laser Engraving Machines

A laser engraving system has three main parts: a laser, a controller, and a surface.

A laser engraving system has three main parts: a laser, a controller, and a surface. The laser is like a pencil with a beam of light. The controller uses the pencil to trace patterns onto the engraving surface. The controller, usually a computer, controls the direction, speed, intensity, and spread of the beam on the engraving surface. The surface material is selected for ease and appropriateness of laser engraving.

The focal point of the laser beam is defined as the point where the beam touches the surface. Depending on the optical wavelength, this point is usually small, perhaps a fraction of a millimeter. Only the area inside the focal point or plane of the optical system is affected when the laser beam passes over the surface. The energy or heat delivered by the laser beam changes the material under the focal point. It may vaporize or fracture (“glass up”) and flake off the surface. Either way, material is removed from the surface, creating an engraving.

During vaporization, good ventilation using blowers is essential for dispersing toxic fumes and smoke. When material is removed in fracturing, debris must be constantly vacuumed up from the surface to allow the etching process to continue.

Laser engraving services

Laser engraving machines

About laser engraving