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Many people ask us whether the best metal engraving with a CO2 laser machine is possible. Engraving metal with a CO2 laser machine is even possible using a process where paints react chemically while the engraving takes place. This is one of the cheapest and fastest ways to engrave metals.

What chemicals can I use to engrave metals with CO2 Laser?

Chemicals used to engrave metal with a CO2 laser machine include Brilliance laser inks, Cermark, and LaserBond. All of these have a solution for metal engraving, either by a paste to apply to the metal or by formulas to prepare and apply in aerosol cans. This type of chemical solution is one of the best for metal engraving, although it is quite expensive and the results are excellent. Please note that the speed of both drying and engraving is not as good as engraving with fiber marking machines.

What types of metals can be engraved?

This laser machine can imprint a collection of metals, but the most habitual are stainless steel, steel, aluminum, some metals type, copper, and brass.

These are the most common metals to work with and give the best results. However, there are many other types of metals and alloys that can give poor results. For example, silver, gold, and others may not give the best results, according to the metals mentioned above. For these metals, a fiber laser marking machine is the best option.

Which metal materials can be directly engraved without chemicals

Anodized aluminum and anodized steel are both common metals used in advertising products such as pens and USB drives, as well as some cell phones. These paint-coated metals can be removed using the CO2 laser machine. The laser machine has a limitation on removing a small portion of the base color due to the laser’s ability to remove a large portion of the paint, but not all of it. This constructs enforcement that leaves anodized metals with some unconsumed color. Consider the following example: If we were to engrave a dog tag in red anodized aluminum, the dog’s name and all owner’s contact information would have a reddish color throughout the engraved area. Thus, the engraving will not look completely clear and clean.

Stainless steel is the best metal to engrave with CO2 laser

Considering stainless steel has a reduced thermal contemporary than aluminum, it is the best material for engraving on a CO2 laser machine. This means that the light beam has less reflection compared to the reflection of aluminum. When the light beam generated by the machine has less reflection, it is better absorbed by the metal. As a result, it can engrave with a darker color and with better quality.

Will the engraving fade over time?

Metal engraving with correct parameters and material will not fade or erase. Even a chemical etch on smooth metal will not fade or erase. Usually metal engraving is done at a low speed with a high power and the only way to remove it is with sandpaper.

Parameters are also very important

Coming back to the previous point and especially the fact that metal reflects light. A good design and good engraving parameters are important for obtaining a good result. But when it comes to engraving on metal, a good parameter setting makes a big difference between an engraving that erases easily and an engraving that doesn’t. The latter even applies to machines with a low wattage.

The following steps are required to engrave a CO2 laser machine on stainless steel with a metal marking spray.

  • Prepare your metal product for engraving.

Make sure the metal is clean (grease reduces the effectiveness of the spray) and is dry before you begin. Remove any excess parts of the item that might get in the way of the engraving and cover any areas you don’t want sprayed.

  • Apply the metal marking spray.

After your product is prepared, spray the metal surface with metal marking spray. Instructions for applying the spray are on the aerosol or available from reputable suppliers. An even layer of the spray provides more consistent results.

Before proceeding to the next step, allow the spray to dry completely (this usually takes a few minutes, but depends on the type and thickness of the spray). Spraying doesn’t have to be very thick, but too thin a coat can lead to patchy engraving.

  • Laser engraving on the metal.

After your metal product is loaded into your laser machine, you can engrave your design on the coated surface. Trial and error can be used to determine what settings are needed for the metal, or the metal spray supplier, or your laser machine supplier may be able to help with the settings.

  • Clean the metal.

You can gently wash the remaining spray off your product with clean water and a soft cloth if necessary.

  • Done

It’s that simple: you are now ready to present your final product to a customer, package it for sale or use it the way you want.

In summary, it is possible to engrave some metals with a CO2 laser using the information and products described above. However, the best option would be a fiber laser marker capable of engraving all metals with incredible detail and quality.