A powerful beam acts as the chisel in aluminum laser engraving, vaporizing particles off the metal surface to incise deep marks. The laser engraver should radiate enough energy that the beam excites the surface material to its vaporization temperature, which for aluminum is 4,221 degrees F, or 2,327 degrees C. Vaporization happens within seconds to avoid generating liquid residue. Modern laser marking systems feature a fume extraction mechanism and an air knife. Fume extraction prevents the release of harmful fumes into the work environment, while the air knife safeguards the laser’s lens.
There are two types of lasers used in aluminum engraving: fiber laser systems and CO2 lasers. Fiber lasers operate at a wavelength that reacts better with metals. They are efficient in creating a high-contrast, durable mark without interfering with the integrity of the parts. They are also long-lasting and come at a lower price. This makes them common for industrial part marking applications. CO2 laser engraving of aluminum is also possible; these lasers can also be applied to non-metallic parts made from acrylics, woods, and natural stone, so they are more commonly used by manufacturers that handle a wider range of materials. Laser marking systems are controlled through computer software.
Aluminum laser markings remain on the surface permanently. This is important for aluminum specifically because workpieces from this material are exposed to numerous kinds of wear and surface treatments. Engravings do not wear out, tear, degrade, or get discarded no matter how long the component lasts or the processes it undergoes. That makes it a suitable marking process for parts that may undergo further rigorous treatments in the manufacturing process such as sandblasting and shot blasting. Laser etching aluminum can also be more beneficial to the environment than other marking methods if a suitable machine is used.
