Laser marking has become an essential process in the manufacturing industry for product identification, traceability, and branding. Whether you are coding cans, lids, consumer product packaging, automotive or aerospace parts, sheets, or plates, the codes you mark should be precise, readable, and permanent.
Backed by years of expertise, innovative technology, and robust support capabilities, Videojet provides state-of-the-art laser solutions for marking on metal, whether engraving, etching, annealing, or ablating.
What is Laser Marking on Metal?
High-quality, detailed markings can be engraved, etched, ablated, or annealed on metal surfaces using a laser beam. The codes, text, logos, and other markings are permanent—they cannot be removed without damaging the product. Unlike traditional marking methods, laser marking systems do not use inks or other fluids, making them a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution.
What Kind of Markings Can Be Achieved with a Laser Marking Machine?
Laser marking on metal can include:
- Serial numbers
- Barcodes (including 2D codes, QR codes, and DataMatrix codes)
- Text & logos
- Expiration dates & lot numbers
- Regulatory compliance markings
Permanent laser markings enhance traceability, support quality control, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Fiber Laser Markers
Fiber laser machines are the preferred systems for marking codes and other data directly on metal surfaces at high speeds. They are more compact than many gas lasers of comparable power and offer high peak power and nanosecond pulses for clean, precise engraved results.
Why Choose Videojet Fiber Lasers?
- Superior marking quality on stainless steel, aluminum, and high-density plastics
- Multiple power options: 10W, 20W, 30W, 50W, and 100W
- Ultra-fast marking speeds of up to 2,000 characters per second
Contact Our Product Specialist to learn more about fiber laser solutions for your industry.
Laser marking systems
Videojet 7340/7440
Laser marking systems
Videojet 7230/7330
Laser marking systems
Videojet 7610
Laser marking systems
Videojet 7510
Applications: Laser Marking on Different Metal Types
Fiber lasers are capable of marking most metal surfaces at high speeds. Ideal for harsh environments, they operate without inks or additional consumables, ensuring a clean process while delivering long-lasting, high-quality codes.
Stainless Steel
Fiber lasers are highly effective for marking on stainless steel. Different techniques include:
- Engraving – Removes deep layers of material
- Ablation – Removes the top layer of painted stainless steel
- Color Change – Alters the surface through a chemical reaction
Aluminum
Since aluminum is less dense than stainless steel, it can be marked with lasers as low as 20W (e.g., Videojet 7330 & 7340). Higher-powered lasers, such as the Videojet 7440 (30W), 7510 (50W), and 7610 (100W), provide deeper engravings and faster processing speeds.
Copper
Copper is less dense than stainless steel, but etching requires a minimum of 30W power (e.g., Videojet 7440).
FAQs on Laser Marking & Printing on Metal
• Permanent and high-contrast markings
• No consumables required (no ink or chemicals)
• Eco-friendly and cost-efficient
• Supports product traceability and anti-counterfeiting
• Complies with industry regulations
Feature Laser Marking Inkjet Printing
Durability Permanent Can fade over time
Consumables None Requires ink
Speed High-speed High-speed
Eco-Friendly Yes No
Maintenance Low Regular maintenance required
Automotive – VIN codes, part numbers
Aerospace – Component tracking
Medical & Pharma – Surgical tools, implants
Food & Beverage – Packaging expiration dates
Manufacturing – Metal tools, hardware
No, laser markings on metal are permanent and cannot be removed without physically altering the surface.
For most industrial metal marking applications, fiber lasers are the best choice due to their high efficiency, speed, and durability. Videojet offers 10W-100W fiber lasers to fit various production needs.
