Metals Laser engraving and laser marking on metals - precision that lasts!

Laser marking uses heat to change the metal surface without removing any material - ideal for high-contrast, smooth markings. Laser engraving, on the other hand, removes material and creates a tactile indentation that is particularly resistant. While the marking is visually impressive and gentle on the material, the engraving scores with maximum durability. Both processes have their strengths - depending on the application and requirements.

Fiber lasers, ultrashort pulse lasers, vanada lasers and - depending on the application - CO2 and UV lasers are particularly suitable for laser marking metals. Fiber lasers are the first choice for high-contrast, permanent markings on stainless steel, aluminium or titanium. Ultra-short pulse lasers enable particularly fine, material-friendly markings with minimal heat exposure - ideal for sensitive or coated metals. Vanadate and UV lasers are used when maximum precision is required for intricate structures. CO₂ lasers are suitable for special applications, e.g. for coated metals or anodized surfaces.

Laser marking is suitable for a wide range of metals - from robust industrial alloys to sensitive, coated surfaces. Stainless steel, aluminium, titanium, brass, copper and anodized metals are particularly frequently marked. Depending on the material, different types of laser are used, e.g. fiber lasers for high-contrast markings on stainless steel or ultrashort pulse lasers for sensitive metals such as titanium. Coated or painted metals can also be precisely marked using targeted surface ablation.

Laser marking of metals is indispensable in numerous industries - wherever permanent, precise and traceable markings are required. It plays a particularly important role in medical technology, where it ensures the standard-compliant UDI marking of instruments and implants that remain legible even after many cleaning cycles. In the automotive and aviation industries, it is used for the forgery-proof marking of safety-relevant components. Laser marking is also an established method for serial numbering, type marking or logo application in the electronics industry, mechanical engineering, tool manufacturing and packaging and consumer goods.

Not every company is allowed to use a laser for marking without further ado - especially not when it comes to powerful systems of laser classes 3B or 4. In Germany, the operation of such laser equipment is subject to registration: before the laser is used for the first time, it must be registered with the relevant employers' liability insurance association and the occupational health and safety authority (e.g. trade supervisory office). In addition, expert laser safety officers must be appointed in writing who are responsible for compliance with all safety regulations. If a laser is operated in a closed system that is classified as laser class 1, it can also be used in a regular production environment without a special permit - provided that all safety measures are met.