Plastic materials have a wide range of chemical compositions. For example, polycarbonate, polyamide, polyester, PE, PET, and ABS are all types of plastics, each with distinct properties. These differences affect how each plastic responds to various processes, including laser marking.
When selecting a laser for marking, the type of plastic determines the required wavelength. The most common lasers used for plastic marking include the UV laser, the FlyPeak green wave laser from LASIT, and the traditional green light laser with a fiber optic source. In some cases, we also recommend the MOPA laser (variable pulse), which excels in challenging applications due to its ability to control pulse timing.
The processes of laser marking on plastics
While there are different processes that lasers can perform on plastic, some are more popular than others. We can meet needs based on manufacturer requirements and the type of product involved.
01
CARBONIZATION
Carbonization creates very dark marks on very bright surfaces. When an area receives continuous high energy, the macromolecules of the element around the base material are charred and turn black.
02
COLOR CHANGE
Color change, for example from dark to light or vice versa, using a laser ensures minimal damage to the component during marking.
03
SELECTIVE ABLATION
With selective ablation, the laser removes a surface layer from the material.
