Application · Laser marking

Every part with a name that won’t rub off.

Laser marking writes serial numbers, batch codes, logos and 2D codes directly into the part. The mark survives handling, cleaning and heat, so parts stay traceable for life.

The job

Manufacturers mark parts to trace them through production, warranty and recalls: serial numbers, dates, batch codes, logos and machine-readable 2D codes. Labels peel off and ink wears away; a laser mark is part of the surface.

Matching the laser to the part

Metals (steel, aluminium, brass, titanium): fiber laser at 1064 nm.
Black marks on anodized aluminium, colour on stainless: MOPA fiber laser.
Plastics, glass, silicone, electronics: UV laser at 355 nm, with very little heat.
Packaging, wood, paper, leather: CO2 laser at 10.6 µm.

Choosing the format

Desktop markers suit small parts on a bench. Cabinet workstations add a larger table and storage for production use. Handheld markers go to large parts. Flying markers mount over a production line and mark products on the move.

Readability

For 2D codes, contrast and cell size decide whether scanners can read them. Send us sample parts and your code format: we mark them and check readability before you buy.

Machines for this job

Maxwave fiber laser marking machine: galvo head on a lifting column over the work table, built on a white workstation cabinet with monitor

Fiber and MOPA markers

Desktop Fiber Laser Marking Machine 20–100 W

Laser power: 20–100 W
Marking area: Up to 300 × 300 mm
Marking speed: ≤ 7000 mm/s

Split-type MOPA fiber laser marking machine: scan head on a lifting column beside a compact source cabinet with emergency stop and start button

Fiber and MOPA markers

MOPA Color Laser Marking Machine 20–100 W

Laser power: 20–100 W
Wavelength: 1064 nm
Marking area: 100 × 100 mm

Enclosed UV laser marking machine with viewing windows, side-mounted monitor and Maxwave branding

UV markers, 355 nm

UV Laser Marking Machine 3–10 W (355 nm)

Laser power: 3–10 W
Wavelength: 355 nm
Min. line width: 0.012 mm

MW-FLYB-100 flying CO2 laser marker: laser housing and galvo head on an adjustable column over a wheeled base

CO2 markers, 10.6 µm

Flying CO2 Laser Marking Machine 30–100 W

Laser power: 30–100 W
Marking speed: ≤ 8000 mm/s
Marking area: Up to 300 × 300 mm

FAQ

Questions buyers ask

Which laser marks QR codes on metal best?

A fiber laser for most metals. For high-contrast black codes on anodized aluminium or stainless, a MOPA fiber laser gives more control. Code size and surface finish affect readability, so test with your scanner.

Can the software generate serial numbers automatically?

Yes. Marking software can increment serials, insert dates and batch codes, and read data from a file, so each part gets a unique mark.

How do I mark parts on a moving conveyor?

Use a flying (online) marker synchronised with an encoder on the line. It marks while the product moves, without stopping the conveyor.