Introduction
Laser marking equipment can be applied to a wide range of materials for permanent, non-contact marking. Under the action of a high-energy laser beam, the surface of the workpiece undergoes physical or chemical changes that create long-lasting marks. With advantages such as high speed, high efficiency, and zero pollution, laser marking has been widely adopted in various industries.
Depending on the working principles and technical features, laser marking methods can generally be divided into three categories: dot matrix laser marking, mask laser marking, and galvanometer (scanning mirror) laser marking. Each method has its own characteristics and application scope.
Dot Matrix Laser Marking
In dot matrix laser marking, multiple small laser beams are emitted and directed through reflecting mirrors and focusing lenses to form numerous burn spots on the workpiece surface. These spots are arranged in a dense matrix pattern, creating markings that consist of many tiny circular pits. Together, they can form images, characters, serial numbers, or even QR codes.
For example, in the case of numbers, seven dots in the vertical direction and five dots in the horizontal direction are often sufficient to create a 7×5 dot matrix pattern—similar to the structure of a digital display screen.
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Advantages: Simple and effective for basic patterns and codes.
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Limitations: Slower marking speed, deeper burn marks, and limited smoothness when magnified. Best suited for relatively flat surfaces with minimal unevenness.
Mask Laser Marking
Mask-based laser marking works on a principle similar to projection lithography. A mask with a pre-defined pattern is placed in the laser beam path. When the laser passes through the transparent areas of the mask, the pattern is projected and then scaled down proportionally onto the surface of the workpiece.
The mask itself is usually made from high-temperature-resistant metal materials, with patterns created through mechanical or chemical etching. This method resembles an advanced version of movable-type printing, where identical patterns can be reproduced efficiently.
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Advantages: Highly efficient for repetitive processing of the same design; the laser head remains fixed during operation.
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Limitations: Mask production is complex and costly, making this method less suitable for applications where patterns need to be frequently updated.
Galvanometer (Scanning Mirror) Laser Marking
Galvanometer-based marking, also known as galvo laser marking, is currently the most mainstream and widely used method. In this process, a laser beam is deflected by two high-speed scanning mirrors (galvo mirrors) aligned perpendicularly along the X and Y axes. By precisely controlling the angles of these mirrors through software, the laser beam is guided to form the desired pattern on the workpiece surface.
Compared with mask marking, which is similar to “printing,” galvanometer marking is like “writing with a pen.” The entire marking process is digitally controlled, allowing for:
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High-speed pattern generation
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Excellent accuracy and repeatability
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Flexibility to create complex and variable designs
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Fully sealed optical paths, making it suitable for diverse environments
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Advantages: High precision, flexibility, and efficiency. Capable of handling a wide variety of materials and applications.
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Limitations: Requires advanced control software and precise calibration, but provides the highest overall performance among laser marking methods.
Conclusion
Laser marking technology is a versatile, efficient, and eco-friendly solution for permanent identification across many industries.
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Dot matrix laser marking is suitable for simple, fixed patterns and codes.
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Mask laser marking excels in batch production of repetitive designs with high consistency.
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Galvanometer laser marking stands out as the most advanced method, combining speed, accuracy, and flexibility for complex and dynamic marking tasks.
By understanding these principles and methods, manufacturers can select the most appropriate laser marking solution to meet their production requirements—whether for high-volume industrial applications, precision optics, electronics, or customized product branding.
Post time: Sep-24-2025