Know the technology but not how to choose? See the results and you'll understand! When engraving metal and non-metal materials, "fiber laser" and "CO2 laser " are the two most common laser processing technologies. Applications include part number marking, logo identification, acrylic sheets, and glass engraving. How do you choose the right processing machine? Look at the finished products and choose the machine—it's that simple!
Fiber optic lasers and CO2 lasers are the two most common laser processing technologies. The main difference lies in the wavelength of the light source. Because different materials absorb energy at different wavelengths, the two technologies can process different materials. We have previously summarized the differences in the principles of these two technologies ( click here to see: [Laser Processing Knowledge] How to Choose a Laser Processing Method? Two Key Points to Quickly Understand! ).
Fiber laser engraving of metal
Fiber laser technology is suitable for engraving " metal " materials, such as copper, aluminum, steel, aluminum alloy, and electrolytic plates. It is now widely used for metal parts numbering, marking and identification, corporate logos, etching and other applications. The fiber laser wavelength is 1,060 nm. The main principle is that the pulse laser generates heat energy, and it is also suitable for black engraving or deep engraving.
The engraving speed, power, pulse, and frequency of a marking machine all affect the "color" effect of the finished product. Taking the stainless steel plate in the image below as an example, under the action of a laser heat source, a thermal effect is generated on the surface of the stainless steel plate, resulting in the formation of colored oxides or a colorless, transparent oxide film. Therefore, various colors are presented due to the interference effect of light. ( Click to see: Colored Metal Marking, How to Set Parameters? )
(Using a Wisely metal marking machine, engrave a three-color logo on a stainless steel plate)
(The Wisely fiber laser marking machine is equipped with a fourth axis – a rotary axis – and uses a stainless steel cylinder for metal engraving.)
(A decorative wooden lamp, crafted using a FLUX laser engraving/cutting machine , emits light through the wood grain when the switch is turned on, creating a beautiful halo reflection on the wall.) 
CO2 laserengraving machines are commonly used in the design and art fields, and are widely used even in personal studios and by teachers and students in schools. In addition to the aforementioned flat engraving, curved mugs, Christmas tree plastic crystal balls, wooden kettles, etc., can also achieve the same effect through the fourth axis.
Have you found the right laser engraving technology for you? Fiber laser marking machines and CO2 laser engraving machines, despite their different technologies, are not inherently better or worse; both can achieve the most exquisite processing results for their respective suitable materials. By skillfully utilizing both technologies, or even combining them, you can unleash your creativity and generate greater business benefits from an artistic perspective. SanDiMa offers more than just 3D printing ; contact us now to learn more about the various applications of laser engraving .
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