Fiber Laser vs. CO2 Laser: Which is Right for You? See the Difference in Processing Results!

Do you understand the technology but can't decide which to choose? The finished product will tell you immediately! When processing metal and non-metal materials, "fiber lasers" and "CO2 lasers" are two of the most common methods among laser processing technologies. For applications like marking part numbers, engraving logos or identification marks, or processing acrylic sheets and glass, which processing machine should you choose? Look at the finished product to choose the machine, and you'll know right away:

"Fiber lasers" and "CO₂ lasers" are the two most common methods in laser processing technology. The main difference lies in the wavelength of the light source, and because different materials absorb energy at different wavelengths, the materials that each can process also differ! We previously introduced the differences in the principles of these two technologies in detail ( 【Laser Processing Basics】How to Choose a Laser Processing Machine? Check These 2 Points! )

Fiber laser technology is suitable for processing "metal" materials. It handles materials like copper, aluminum, steel, aluminum alloys, and electrolytic plates, and is currently widely used for various applications such as marking metal parts with numbers, identification marks, company logos, and etching. Fiber lasers have a wavelength of 1,060 nm and primarily generate thermal energy through pulsed lasers, making them also suitable for black marking and deep engraving.

The processing speed, output, pulse, and frequency of the marking machine affect the "color" of the finished product. Taking the stainless steel plate below as an example, the heat source of the laser light causes a thermal effect on the surface of the stainless steel plate, forming colored oxides or colorless and transparent oxide films. Therefore, various colors can be expressed through the interference effect of light. (【Color Metal Marking】How to set parameters?)

(Using a Wisely metal marking machine to engrave a three-color logo on a stainless steel plate)

(Wisely fiber laser marking machine with added 4th axis/rotary axis, processing cylindrical stainless steel material)

(Wooden design lamp created with a FLUX laser engraving and cutting machine. When switched on, light filters through the wood patterns, creating beautiful reflections on the wall.)