How to Mark a Round or Cylindrical Product

There are many misconceptions about the use of marking systems in industrial settings, especially regarding the shapes of products to be marked. A common one is that marking systems are suitable for only flat products. This is not true. Many marking systems are suitable for several shapes and dimensions.

This article will introduce the different marking systems and machines you can use for round and cylindrical products.

Marking System 1: Scribing

Scribing is a part marking process involving removing material from the product by dragging a stylus. This creates a smooth continuous marking that is deep and permanent and is the perfect marking process for high-quality marks and low noise during production.

Scribing is suitable for round or cylindrical products due to the greater freedom it gives the operator. However, it does not offer contrasts making it less suitable if contrast is the desired property.

Marking System 2: Roll Marking

Roll marking is the most common industrial marking system for large round cylindrical objects such as gas cylinders, pipes, and tubes. It involves mounting a roll die containing the inscription marked on a lathe and pressing it on the part. Roll marking is suitable for the process because:

• It does not subject the gas cylinder to thermal and chemical stress
• Although it is not handheld, it can easily mark round and cylindrical products irrespective of their structure.
• It is suitable for any size of objects

Although efficient, the process also has the same disadvantages as scribing and dot peening. That is, it produces highly readable images but without contrast.

Marking System 3: Dot Peening

Dot peen is a common marking system for round products such as gas cylinders. It involves using a pneumatically or electrically controlled pin or stylus to impact a part and mark it. The marking is readable and permanent, and the part is not subjected to thermal and chemical stress. However, like scribing, there is no contrast, reducing clarity and producing a lot of noise.

Dot peening is a highly rated marking system for round and cylindrical bodies. Portable dot peening machines such as HS-PE01 and the best options for large objects. These machines allow the operator to have a greater degree of freedom. Benchtop dot peening machines are a better option for smaller parts.

Software inclusion further makes the dot peening marking system a darling to manufacturers who make round objects. The software allows the operator to store codes, unlike scribing, where everything is mechanical.

Marking System 4: Laser Marking

Laser marking is the most popular marking system that delivers permanent and readable markings for any product. It involves the use of a laser beam to mark an object.

Laser marking comprises many technologies such as engraving, etching, annealing, and ablation. Each is applicable for marking round and cylindrical objects depending on the materials you want to mark.

Portable laser marking machines are the best for round and cylindrical objects because they allow great freedom. However, looking at efficiency, you might need to consider the power level and types of materials you are working for.

Regarding material compatibility, fiber laser markers such as the HS-FL10, HS-FL20, and HS-FL30A can mark different types of metal materials, while CO2 laser markers such as HS-CL20, HS-CL30, and HS-9060 are suitable for organic materials such as nonmetals.

Marking System 5: Inkjet Marking

Inkjet marking involves using a nozzle to deposit ink on the material to mark it. Two major types are continuous marking and drop-on-demand inkjet marker (DOD). Inkjet marking provides highly readable markings. However, they are most times not permanent.

How to Choose the Right Marking Machine for Round and Cylindrical Products?

A successful marking process depends on the method and machine used. Hence, it is crucial to understand several factors that play huge roles in choosing the right method and machine.

· What is Your Budget?

Your budget is the pillar of the decision you will make. Nevertheless, you should choose a machine/method to deliver an effective and efficient marking while matching your budget.

· What is the Round Object’s Size?

Another factor that determines your choice of marking machine is the size. Some machines are better suited for large round and cylindrical objects. For example, roll marking. On the other hand, some are better suited for smaller ones. There are also others, such as laser marking, that can efficiently mark round objects of different sizes.

· Machine Portability

Handheld machines are easier to operate and maneuver, making them ideal for large cylindrical objects. There are many types depending on the marking system. However, consider a marking machine with industrial capability. Handheld machines from different marking systems are suitable for large objects.

· Material Choice

Every marking system has its material compatibility. Roll marking is suitable for metals and delicate systems. For example, it is highly applicable in gas cylinder marking. Dot peen marking is suitable for metals or materials subject to mechanical stress.

Laser marking systems apply to many materials depending on the laser technologies. For example, fiber laser markers such as the HS-FL20 and HS-FL30A are compatible with metals and some plastics. CO2 laser markers such as the HS-CL30 and HS-9060 are suitable for organic materials such as plastics and woods. Lastly, UV lasers such as the HS-UV03 are suitable for thermosensitive materials such as plastics.

· Permanency and readability of the marking

Laser marking machines and inkjet marking are the best options if readability is important. These marking systems provide a contrast between the part and the markings, which aids readability. While the others, aside from inkjet marking, provide permanent markings, the laser marking system is the only one that provides permanent and readable markings.

Get the Best Round and Cylinder Marking Machine

Marking a cylinder might be for identification or traceability. Therefore, you should use the best marking machine and method. This article introduces the different machines and methods you can use and how to choose them. HeatSign is your best bet against the uncertainty in the market. Come and enjoy a top-notch service that prioritizes customer satisfaction over anything.