The Ultimate Laser Engraving Guide

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.