Universal Engraver - What is the Difference Between Laser Marking and Laser Engraving
                     
Did you know that the word LASER is an acronym and that it stands 
for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The 
term is typically used for devices that amplify a beam of light to 
create a highly intense focal point. This technology is highly 
adopted and finds applications in innumerable range of industrial 
and commercial operations and usages. It is most commonly used 
in the manufacturing sector to mark or engrave assembly 
components so as to increase traceability, to ensure aesthetic sense 
or to indicate more information.
 
Universal engraver reviews that while laser marking and laser 
engraving operate under the same basic principle and are often 
referred to interchangeably, there are some key differences which 
make them distinct from each other. While marking and engraving 
are similar and can be used interchangeably, laser marking is 
typically associated with engineered plastics and metals, and laser 
engraving refers to wood, plastic and acrylic.
Regulations laid by the industry and the government have made 
marking mandatory for product legibility and identification. In this 
regard, laser marking and laser engraving have gained 
prominence in recent years. Identification of the parts play an 
important role in ensuring safety and reducing margin of errors. It 
doesn't matter what industry you belong to, whether you work in 
automotive or aerospace, whether medical industry or chemical 
labs, it is absolutely essential that parts are identified.
 
Universal engraver stresses that though both these terms are 
often used interchangeably, a business owner or a property 
owner must understand their uniqueness to choose the best 
suitable option for themselves. Their application may range from 
labelling parts to putting in VIN number, to putting logo or maybe 
just serial number - engraving or imprinting, one must know the 
differences!
There is no denying that the terminology is confusing but both of 
them are different in process, in applications and in final appearance. 
The decision for opting for one of these two depends on various 
factors, but the most primary one is the nature of the project and the 
material in use. The material dictates everything. For example, 
engraving might be the best option for some projects and marking for 
some. For some people, appearance is of utmost importance, 
engraving might feel good, but marking can look good. It is therefore 
important to understand the difference between them to make an 
informed decision.
 
Laser engraving is more permanent in nature because the product 
undergoes a significant change. The process involves removal of a 
part of the surface. Laser engraving is most commonly used in plastic, 
steel, glass, wood and in some cases even leather. Under this process 
the laser beam burns off the surface, thereby making the imprint 
permanent. The advantage is that the material will never lose its mark 
even in harsh conditions or after rough tear and wear.
Types of Laser Engraving Methods
Typically there are three kinds of laser engraving methods - laser 
etching, laser engraving and laser ablation.
Laser etching predominantly produce shallow marks
Laser engraving involves making deep marks that can withstand 
hard conditions, exposure and environment.
Laser ablation involves removing surface coatings 
Universal Engraver offers a variety of laser engraving 
machines that can minimise your efforts and optimise your 
results, for example: 15000 mw Blue CNC Laser Engraving 
Machine, Cylinder Column Mini Laser Engraver Engraver 
Machine, and 50W CO2 laser engraving and cutting machine 
etc.
 
Under laser marking, the laser beam slightly alters the 
surface of the material without burning it.  The most 
common form of laser marking is oxidation which involves 
blackening the surface of the material. Laser marking makes 
sense in scenarios where it is prerequisite that the material 
of the product remains intact.
There are many laser marking methods available. The four 
most commonly used are:
Carbon migration: A common type of laser marking, carbon 
migration occurs during the heating of metal or metal alloys. 
The rapid heating allows for carbon molecules to migrate into 
the specified area. 
Annealing: Annealing refers to localised heating because of 
which the colour of the material changes.
Colouring: It is the process of adding colour to an object 
that is being marked.
Foaming: This technique is used when the desired colour is 
lighter than the original colour of the material. 
Universal Engraver’s The Blue CNC Laser Engraving Machine, is the 
most ideal laser marking machine available in the market. It can easily 
speed up your production and increase efficiency. The machine can be 
used to mark on all types of materials, including stainless steel, 
anodised aluminium, tool steel etc. The machine offers a material 
engraving area of 20”x25” and is compact and efficient.
The choice between laser engraving and laser marking is an entirely 
business option. Understanding the difference between them makes 
it easy to make an informed decision. Laser engraving and laser 
marking both play an instrumental role in part identification and part 
identification is crucial for it reduces error and guarantees safety. 
Throughout the years, universal engraver has gained expertise and 
expanded the capabilities of its machines and offers solutions for the 
diverse needs of the manufacturing industry. The constant innovation 
offers state-of-the-art laser solutions for all kinds of diverse needs 
cutting across all sectors and industries.