Laser engraving is to engrave an object or material surface with the help of lasers. One should not confuse laser engraving with laser marking as the machines used for the two procedures are the same. Laser marking is used to mark a material while laser engraving engraves the surface. The laser technology is finding a versatile usage for engraving different materials like marble, coated metals, plastics, acrylic, stone, granite, wood, and veneers. Material manufacturers continue to look for new material and surfaces that would be ideal for laser engraving.
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Laser Engraving[/caption]The Right Machine for Laser Engraving:
The first major step in the industry is to look for the right machine that is versatile and efficient for engraving large volumes of different materials and with speed and accuracy. There are three main parts in the laser machine for engraving, the laser, controller, and surface. One would, of course, need a higher wattage when engraving hard materials like stones and metals. Thus, one should ask for the appropriate wattage and the right machine when stepping into this business. All that the engraver has to do is feed the graphic artwork to be engraved into the machine and set the power, speed, and resolution. The machine engraves when the hit button is pressed. The laser beam traces the patterns onto the surface and moves guided by the artwork. The direction, intensity, speed of movement can be controlled as the laser vaporizes and removes the material.
Advantages of Laser Engraving:
When compared to conventional methods, laser engraving has many advantages. There is a negligible chance of any product damage and wear and tear. Plus, there is no risk of any toxic by-products with laser engraving. The results are sharp, precise, and permanent, and one can enjoy a higher versatility when it comes to material choices. Moreover, the machines are very easy to learn and operate. The machines of today have significantly evolved and offered much more options and advantages like faster engraving speeds. The laser can cut both flat and curved surfaces and is popularly used for engraving wine glasses and jewellery surfaces. Computer technology has made the art of laser engraving even more sophisticated and precise, leaving no room for any mistakes.
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Laser Engraving[/caption]Restrictions of Laser Engraving:
Despite so many benefits and growing need and popularity of laser engraving, the technology is still expensive. Moreover, there are limitations when it comes to size capabilities, and it is difficult to complete large areas of artwork. On top of that, one has to handle laser rays carefully because of the specific safety issues involved. There are certain laws and regulations that the machine maker and user are required to know and comply with. Manufacturers label the equipment with warning signs and associated hazards so that the machine users are careful when operating the laser engraving machines. Thus, it is essential to take all the essential precautions when running those laser machines.
Laser engraving is being used for different applications along with making excellent work of art. Those grooves and striations can be filled with different materials, inks, and glazes. Look for a top-quality laser engraving equipment that is easy to run, safe, and maintain. Thanks to the fast-evolving technologies, the equipment today have become a lot safer and more affordable than before. One can engrave around curved surfaces because of a rotary fixture and some of the latest allow one to engrave at different depths with the help of 3D effects feature. It is no wonder to see a growing demand in the market for Laser engraving services and equipment. There is plenty of information regarding laser engraving equipment at trade shows and in trade journals.