Deep Laser Engraving: How to Increase Laser Engraving Depth?
Have you ever noticed coin markings or embossed logos on metal plates? These are great examples of deep surface engraving. This technique cuts into the surface to a considerable depth, leaving a visible mark on the material.
Confused about how it differs from standard laser engraving ? This article will clarify. We will explore deep engraving, its unique features, and applications. Additionally, we will highlight a compact desktop laser machine that is ideal for deep engraving.
How to get deep laser engraving?
In deep laser engraving, a powerful laser beam is used to vaporize the material, removing layers from its surface. This process creates a prominent design surrounded by cavities; the result is similar to the raised designs on stamps or coins. The design appears elevated because the surrounding surface is etched away.
In standard engraving, the laser beam removes the material that leaves a permanent mark. In that case, the engraving is below the surface. While in deep engraving, the design becomes prominent due to the deep removal (etching) of the surrounding surface . The process requires more power, depth and time than the standard one.
An extension of deep engraving is 3D Laser Engraving . Here, the depth of material removal varies, giving the design a three-dimensional look. 3D engraving is similar to deep engraving in technique, but adds an extra dimension to the design, which enhances its visual impact.
How deep can laser engraving go?
Deep laser engraving, as the name suggests, is deeper than standard engraving. In normal cases, the depth reaches about 500 microns or 0.5 mm. However, there is no fixed standard for this depth.
Likewise, the extent of deep engraving also varies. It depends on the capabilities of the machine and the specific requirements of the design. Typically, the depth is limited to a few millimeters . It is enough to add an aesthetic touch and make the design appear raised.
Is it possible to make deep laser engravings on metal?
Yes, metals are suitable for deep laser engraving and we often see them with deep markings in various applications.
Precious metals such as gold, silver and platinum are particularly suitable for deep engraving. We see applications in the jewelry industry. Stainless steel can also be deeply engraved, but there is a caveat. Deep engraving can damage its oxide layer, increasing the risk of corrosion. The same problem occurs with iron. To avoid this, additional steps such as chrome plating or painting after engraving are necessary.
Commonly pulsed fiber lasers , known for their power, are used for deep engraving of metal parts.
What is deep laser engraving used for?
Deep laser engraving is used in a wide range of applications where permanent markings are required. Let's see its use in:
Industrial Marking: It is commonly used to engrave logos, lettering and serial numbers on machine parts. The method ensures that these important identifiers are durable and resistant to wear.
Stamp Plate Engraving: Deep engraving is ideal for creating stamp plates. The depth achieved in the engraving process leaves clear and precise impressions on the stamps.
Jewelry Engraving: In the jewelry industry, deep engraving adds intricate designs or personalization to pieces made of precious metals. It is the best way to add initials of names on jewelry items and make them special.
Coin Engraving: Coins often feature detailed designs and text; this level of detail is achieved using deep laser engraving. It allows for precise and intricate patterns, which are essential to the aesthetics and authenticity of the coins.
How do you make laser engraving deeper?
To achieve deeper laser engraving, we need to fine-tune several machine parameters, such as speed, optical power, and number of passes.
Optical power
Power is the most influential factor. Higher optical power allows deeper engraving in a shorter time. For deep engraving laser engraving metal , at least 20W Fiber Laser is needed, depending on the hardness of the metal to be engraved. Other materials may require less power. If the laser is underpowered, it can still reach the desired depth, but the process will be slower.
Speed
The speed at which the laser head moves across the material is also critical. Setting a slower speed allows the laser to spend more time on each area, resulting in deeper cuts. However, be careful not to set the speed too low, especially with materials like wood, as this can cause burning or excessive material removal.
Number of passes
When working with a less powerful laser machine but aiming for greater depth, it is possible to increase the number of passes of the laser head to achieve greater depth. However, this approach is more time consuming as it involves more repetitions on the same area.
Adequate ventilation
Deep engraving requires longer processing times and more material removal, which results in prolonged fume generation. Additionally, the laser and material may heat up during the process.
To maintain a cool and safe working environment, you need an effective exhaust system with a smoke extractor. This ensures the removal of fumes and helps manage the temperature during the engraving process.
Which deep laser engraving machine do you need?
In industrial settings, the most popular choice for deep engraving is the fiber laser, but diode and CO2 lasers can also do the job.
Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts are also looking for fiber technology in desktop laser setup. Considering the needs of users, xTool has packed fiber laser technology into a compact desktop engraver, xTool F1 Ultra .
xTool F1 Ultra: The Best Deep Engraving Solution for Small Businesses
xTool F1 Ultra is a unique dual laser engraver, the first in the world to contain two powerful laser modules: 20W fiber laser and 20W diode laser. The combination allows for deep engraving of almost any material .
With 20W diode, it can engrave wood, leather, rubber, acrylic and other common materials. While 20W fiber makes it able to engrave plastic and metal . The machine is also able to cut thin metal sheets.
Like its predecessor, the F1 Ultra also uses galvo-laser technology , which sets it apart from its competitors. An engraving speed of 10,000 mm/s in desktop laser machines is not common.
The F1 Ultra can not only engrave flat surfaces, but also supports curved and cylindrical surfaces . The machine is equipped with a smart camera that not only provides a preview of the work area, but also adjusts the focus according to the material profile. The cylindrical engraving functionality can be exploited by using xTool's rotary attachment, RA2 Pro.
In terms of working space, F1 Ultra is in a category of its own. It is the largest galvo laser engraver with or without conveyor. The basic working space is 220*220mm, with expansion up to 220*500mm.
Deeper engraving is a breeze with the F1. Place the material, the camera system detects its thickness and focuses the laser. Simply drag and drop the design to engrave. In addition, the machine also comes with a control panel and 7GB of storage space inside. You can save your designs and later process the engraving without connecting to a computer .
xTool F1 Ultra does not require any safety equipment to operate. The machine is already closed and has a filter cover on top to prevent invisible laser beams from escaping. Then, there is a smoke exhaust system that ensures the gases escape quickly.
Conclusion
Deep engraving is a fundamental technique for adding distinct permanent markings to mechanical parts or for producing customized items. It offers excellent results, but requires more power and patience than the standard engraving process. Remember, success in deep engraving comes from effective management of power, speed, and ventilation.
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