Laser Technology
Understand the science behind laser marking, cutting, and welding. Learn how each technology works and which is right for your application.
Laser Marking Technology
Laser marking is a non-contact thermal or photochemical process that creates permanent marks on material surfaces. Unlike inkjet printing, chemical etching, or mechanical engraving, laser marking produces high-contrast, durable marks without consumables, tool wear, or material contact.
Beam Generation
The laser source generates a highly concentrated beam of light at a specific wavelength. Fiber lasers operate at 1064nm (IR), CO₂ at 10.6μm, and UV at 355nm — each optimized for different material types.
Beam Delivery & Scanning
High-speed galvanometer mirrors precisely deflect the beam across the marking field. The scanning system achieves positioning speeds exceeding 10,000 mm/s with sub-micron accuracy.
Material Interaction
The focused laser beam interacts with the material surface through ablation, annealing, color change, or foaming — depending on the material and laser parameters. Each process is precisely controlled through software.
Mark Formation
The result is a permanent, high-contrast mark. Unlike printing, the mark is integral to the material — resistant to wear, chemicals, heat, and UV exposure. No consumables, no drying time.
Laser Cutting Technology
Fiber laser cutting uses a high-power focused laser beam to melt, burn, or vaporize material along a programmed cutting path. Assisted by high-pressure gas (oxygen, nitrogen, or compressed air), the process achieves clean, precise cuts with minimal kerf width and heat-affected zone.
CAD/CAM Nesting
Part geometries are imported from CAD files and intelligently nested to maximize material utilization. The CAM software generates optimized cutting paths and sequences.
Piercing
The laser pierces a small hole at the cut start point using pulsed high-power output. Pierce time depends on material thickness — typically less than 1 second for thin sheets.
Cutting Process
The focused laser beam, assisted by high-pressure gas, traverses the cutting path. Oxygen is used for carbon steel (exothermic reaction), nitrogen for stainless steel and aluminum (clean, oxide-free edges).
Part Removal & Sorting
Cut parts drop onto support slats or are retrieved by automated unloading systems. The skeleton frame is removed and recycled. The next sheet is automatically loaded for continuous operation.
Laser Welding Technology
Laser welding uses a concentrated beam of light to create a narrow, deep weld with minimal heat input. The process is characterized by high welding speeds, low thermal distortion, and the ability to weld difficult-to-reach areas through fiber optic beam delivery.
Joint Preparation
Parts are cleaned and positioned. Laser welding requires tighter fit-up than arc welding but produces vastly superior results. Tack welding or fixturing ensures proper alignment.
Beam Focusing
The laser beam is focused to a spot size of 0.2-0.5 mm, creating extreme power density at the weld point. This achieves deep penetration with a narrow heat-affected zone.
Keyhole Welding
At high power density, the laser creates a vapor cavity (keyhole) that allows deep penetration. The molten material flows around the keyhole and solidifies behind it, forming a strong, narrow weld seam.
Post-Weld Inspection
Weld quality is verified through visual inspection, dye penetrant testing, or automated vision systems. The narrow, consistent weld bead makes quality verification straightforward and reliable.
Want to learn more about our technology?
Our technical team is available to discuss your specific application and recommend the optimal laser technology for your needs.