How to Speed Up Part Marking Without Sacrificing Depth

Depth is an important property desired in part marking due to the need for clarity and readability. Not all marking systems can boast of depth. For example, inkjet marking and laser marking systems such as laser etching and annealing.

Depth and speed are contrasting properties, as a desire to increase the depth will reduce the speed of the process. Nevertheless, it is also possible to speed up the part marking process without losing depth. This article introduces several ways depending on the marking system.

Laser Engraving

Laser engraving is a laser marking procedure that involves using a laser beam produced by a laser marking machine to remove part of a material to mark it. Increasing the speed of the laser engraving process without sacrificing the depth can be achieved by doing the following

· Power

The power of the machine determines the speed and depth of marking. Therefore, you should go for a very powerful laser marking machine. For example, the HS-FL30A can engrave at a depth without sacrificing speed.

· Lens

The lens is the most important parameter that determines the speed of the engraving process. It controls the focusing of the laser beam, which controls the intensity and depth of marking. Using the right lens can ensure the right engraving speed, and expert has found that a smaller lens is very effective depending on the material. Therefore, you should go for a laser marking machine with a small lens.

· Scanning Speed

The scanning speed is the laser beam movement speed. When the laser beam moves slowly, there is a higher depth since it remains longer in the same area. You should be able to get a machine with a scanning speed that strikes a balance between speed and depth.

· Part Temperature

Preheating the material can also ensure you increase the speed without sacrificing depth. For example, when you heat aluminum parts, you can engrave up to 40% deeper within the same time.

· Line Width

The line width is the laser beam traveled distance before it starts a new one. After every line, there is a small delay called the hatch speed (about 0.03s depending on the machine) which adds up in time. The longer the line width, the faster the engraving speed. Therefore, you should be able to tailor that to your project.

Dot Peening

Dot peening machines are known for their deep markings. Hence their application in several industries, especially the oil & gas industry. Achieving a fast-marking procedure without sacrificing depth could be a dream. However, you can make it a reality by choosing the following steps,

· Use an electrical dot peen machine

There are two major types of dot peen markers: pneumatic and electromagnetic. Both deliver in terms of depth, but the electrical dot peen machine is faster. For example, the HS-PE electric engraving machines are a common, fast, and economical industrial option.

· Quality of machine

Some machines have industrial capabilities and several features such as accuracy and durability. The speed of the machine is tied to its accuracy and durability. Therefore, you should choose a machine that has such qualities.

· Ease of Operation

There are three main considerations in the operation and control of a dot peen machine: marking software, portability, and advanced operation. Ensure you choose user-friendly software with features that make marking easier.

Here is a video how to change our HS-PE01 marking machine speed and punch power,

· Control

Also, depending on the part, you should be able to tailor your machine. Portable machines are suitable for large objects due to the ease of maneuvering and control. Advanced operations such as automatic marking and living also ensure that you mark swiftly without having a problem.

Scribing

Scribing or manual engraving is another common part marking process you can use. It involves using a stylus to continuously remove part of a material and form a smooth continuous mark. Due to being a manual process, scribing is very slow. The only way to speed up the marking is to change the marking system. The best option would be laser engraving and dot peening.

Achieving Speed and Depth in Part Marking

Deep marks are legible in tough environments. However, a fast mark is important for production efficiency. Aside from the pinpoint thing to do about the part marking discussed above. You can also ensure that the markings system is tailored for the right material.

Choosing the right marking machine is paramount to speed up the part marking process without having a problem. Therefore, you should choose a dot peen marking machine partner with enough experience in marking machines in the industrial setting. Heat Sign’s machines are highly industrial capable. Looking for a dot peen machine or other marking machines? Contact us