An increasing need for product identification and traceability is driving the growth of laser-marking applications all around the world. Product identification, in the form of simple alphanumerics to complicated graphics and codes, is easily generated and permanently marked onto glass, PET, plastics, paper labels and cardboard.
Coding and marking lasers are easy to install, require no consumables and will readily fit onto a production line using encoders and detectors to monitor the speed and pitch of packages as they move along the packing line providing a fully automated service.
In the laser marking process, the high-intensity focused laser beam is transformed into heat energy. This energy is absorbed very close to the surface of the material to be marked. The absorption results either in the removal of the surface material, in the material changing colour or in the foaming of some plastics. For example, on coated anodised metal, the overcoat is etched away to expose the contrasting sublayer. On glass, a shallow groove is etched into the material causing a frosted appearance. On certain plastics the mark on the material changes colour. In all cases, the marks are clean, precise and indelible.
Laser technology is a consistent, high-speed, efficient manner of permanent identification. But each application requires care and consideration to ensure the most appropriate laser is selected to permanently mark and code products. Laser permanent marking can be found on food packets, ice-cream containers, shrink-wrapped tablets, wine cartons, glass and PET bottles and jars, clip locks, labels and hot drink cups. Indeed any product that requires a reliable mark or code that needs to be tracked is suitable for permanent laser marking.