Etching is often used for industrial purposes – marking tools or parts with serial numbers, logos and bar codes. The etching process actually removes small amounts of material from the metal piece. Material is removed to create whatever mark the user desires (barcode, data matrix code, etc.) Essentially, it is a very shallow engraving that produces a high contrast mark in the metal.
Polished metal, or “mirrored” as it sometimes called, is a laser effect where the laser beam heats the surface of a material and as it cools, the material takes on a different finish. Most common on matte-finish metal, this technique creates marks that can look almost holographic. Unlike etching, no material is actually removed from the metal being marked – it is the heat that alters the finish of the metal. Since the polished look emits a sense of sophistication and distinction, it is often used in architectural signage and labeling high-end products where a unique or aesthetically pleasing mark is necessary. The mirrored finish produces a tone-on-tone look where the metal has been marked.
An annealed mark is similar to the polishing process. The laser is used to heat metal to near melting points, which induces a color change to the top layer of material. Annealing often gives a dark iridescent look, with a faint rainbow of greens, blues and pinks that can sometimes be seen in the text or graphic. Since no material is removed from the metal, this technique is often used for medical devices used within the human body. Annealing leaves no cuts or shallow engravings like those found in marking and etching and typically produces the darkest mark of these three methods.
What this means to you:
If you want to create more than one mark type, you can do so with the FiberMark system by adjusting speed, power, frequency and focal point. Our Applications Lab would be happy to help you find the perfect settings for the mark you are looking to achieve.
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