Laser processing has quickly become an
industry standard for working with a variety of materials that are available in
today’s manufacturing environments. Laser processing is the wider term that
refers to three processes namely: laser cutting, laser engraving, and laser
welding. This blog will comprehensively cover laser engraving. It is a highly
desirable form of laser processing that if done exceptionally well can produce
amazing results. It is especially so when you use a 3D laser engraver.
Define laser
engraving
It is a non-contact process where an
optic assembly is moved over a surface from side to side to produce a desired
outcome. A focusing lens reduces the laser beam from the optical assembly to a
focal point which then delivers energy in the form of heat. The vaporized part
leaves a permanent engraved area behind. The depth of the engraved part can be
modified by altering the power and speed. That is why Snapmaker, the leading
company in the 3D printing industry, has come up with the Snapmaker 20W and 40W
laser modules for your convenience.
Laser
engraving vs laser etching
Depth is the primary difference
between laser engraving and laser etching. In etching, a shallow mark is left
behind while in engraving, a more deeply developed mark is left. Wood is a very
popular material to use with a CNC laser engraving machine.
There is also another form of laser
processing called laser marking. It does not involve melting or vaporizing
material. Instead, it uses a laser beam to create a heat-affected zone on the
surface of a material. This leaves behind a contrasting mark on the material.
This process is mostly used when designing logos, barcodes, and serial numbers.
3D laser
engraving
Deep engraving into wood or any other
material, with depth variations throughout the whole project is referred to as
3D engraving. It is done using a 3D printer CNC laser machine. Snapmaker has revolutionized the 3D laser
engraving field with their 20W and 40W laser modules that come with an air
assist feature. Visit https://eu.snapmaker.com/ to read more on them.
3D images generally take more time than 2D images but the outcome is usually unparalleled. The key to impressive 3D laser engraving is having software that can add grayscales to your artwork quickly. Snapmaker has this covered with their amazing Snapmaker Luban software. With this, you will never miss anything in your 3D laser engraving journey. Head to https://eu.snapmaker.com/ today to find more information.
