Many industries use laser marking machines. They leave their marks on metal, plastic, and other materials permanently. To know how they are functioning, the first thing to know is their parts.
All components have a definite role. Combined, they make certain to mark accurately, rapidly, and cleanly. This article presents a simple and clear view of every main aspect.
1. Laser Source
The source of the laser is the center of the machine. It emits the light beam, which identifies the surface. There are three common types:
Fiber Laser: Suitable for metals and hard plastics.
CO₂ Laser: Suitable for non-metals such as wood, paper, leather
UV Laser: Excellent for soft plastics and heat-sensitive articles.
The type of source is based on the necessity to mark the type of material. The power (in watts) also influences speed and depth.
2. Galvanometer (Galvo) Scanner
This is the moving part that rapidly moves the laser beam across the surface. It uses two mirrors:
- One for the beam side to be moved back and forth.
- One to move it up and down.
The galvanometer gives high-speed and accurate marking. High volume production employs faster scanners.
3. Focusing Lens
The lens converges the beam of the laser into a small spot. This place is where the marking takes place. The smaller but sharper the point, the cleaner the mark.
Common lens types include:
- F-theta lens: Keeps the mark flat over the work area
- Zoom lens: Allows the change of size without altering the object itself.
Good focus means quality marks are higher and there is less material damage. For detailed information, visit the official website of Hispeedlaser.
4. Control System
The control system relates hardware to software. It instructs a machine how to move as well as when to fire the laser.
Features include:
- Speed control
- Power settings
- Marking time
- Pattern control
The system converts your design to a laser path. A good control system gets the entire machine to function better.
5. Marking Software
This is a place where you develop your design. The software lets you:
- Upload logos, barcodes, and text
- Adjust size, font, and position
- Set power, speed, and frequency
- Preview before marking
- In good software, there are many file types, DXF, PLT, AI, and BMP. It should be user-friendly, even for new people.
6. Worktable or Platform
The item being marked is mounted on the worktable. There are some machines with a fixed table. Others have:
- Rotary axes for round items
- Tables that are adjustable to a user’s height for big or tall goods
- Automatic conveyors for high-speed production
- A firm and steady table is a good prevention from making errors.
7. Cooling System
Lasers generate heat. The system of cooling ensures that the parts are cold and safe. There are two main types:
- Air cooling: For low- to mid-power machines
- Water cooling: For high-power or long-use machines
The right cooling prolongs the life of the machine and maintains optimal performance.
Summary of core components
- Laser Source – Produces a laser beam.
- Scanning Galaxy – The beam can be moved quickly and accurately.
- Lensing – Beam Concentrator – Concentrates the beam on the surface
- Control System – Serves as a communications source to hardware via software commands.
- Marking Software – Creates and modifies the marking format.
- Worktable – Where the article to be marked is fixed.
- Evacuation system – To avoid overheating during the operation process.
Optional and Advanced Add-ons
- Rotary attachments – For the marking of round items.
- Auto-feeders – For bulk jobs
- Protection covers – For user safety.
- Smoke extractors – For clean air and a clean atmosphere.
- Camera systems – Self-alignment and inspection.
These extras aid in improving speed, safety, and flexibility.
Conclusion
All the components of the laser marking machine are necessary. The laser source, the lenses, and the software should have a running-in that works well together. Understanding how they operate allows you to select for and use the appropriate machine.
Knowing components also assists with repairs, upgrades, and more effective production control.