Serial Number Marking Processes You Can Use
To achieve the high readability characteristics required of serial numbers, not all marking processes are ideal for serial number marking. There are three marking processes that are used in serial number marking. Each method has its characteristics and application. Below are the different methods you can use:
Laser Marking Process

There are two laser marking processes applicable in serial numbers due to the need for high readability. Both lasers marking processes lead to the formation of a permanent marking due to the action of the laser beam on the material. The two laser methods are laser engraving and laser etching. Below is an explanation of the use of the two processes:
Laser Engraving
Of the number of laser marking processes used industrially and domestically, laser engraving is the most compatible with serial number marking. It involves using a laser beam from a serial number engraving machine to remove parts of a material surface. Consequently, this leads to the marking of the material due to the vaporization of the material.
There are two types of materials you can use for laser engraving, and they both center on ease of operation and other features. You can use the handheld laser engraving machine or the traditional engraving machine. Each type of serial number engraving machine is ideal for marking under different conditions. For example, the traditional engraving machine is majorly applicable industrially due to its long-lasting features. The handheld machine is small. However, recent technological advancements have ensured that they are applicable both domestically and industrially.
Laser engraving is a popular serial number marking process due to the high readability of codes. It is compatible with a lot of materials, with metals being the most commonly used. However, while using laser engraving, you must note the function of such materials. For example, laser engraving might not be ideal for stainless steel used underwater if it will mark at a depth that will expose the chromium layer. Doing this will remove the chromium layer, which is responsible for stainless steel anti-rust and anti-corrosive properties. Therefore, it will become unsuitable for such use underwater.
Laser Etching
Laser etching is also similar to laser engraving. It is mostly confused for the procedure. However, unlike laser engraving, a laser beam generated by a laser etching machine will cause the melting and expansion of the material surface. The formation of the raised mark leads to the marking.
Laser etching is a popular serial number marking method, especially in the automotive marking industry. For example, it is the right method for marking the glass component of automobiles. While it is also popular, laser-etching has a lower number of compatible materials. Also, the same precaution attributed to laser engraving should be known with laser etching.
Dot Peening Marking Process

The dot peening process is also another serial number marking technique that uses vibrational energy for marking purposes. It involves using a pin or stylus controlled pneumatically or electrically to indent on the material surface, leading to marking. The marking is permanent and highly readable. Consequently, dot peening is a popular serial number marking process.
Unlike the laser method of marking, dot peening does not subject the material to chemical or mechanical stress. However, the materials are subjected to mechanical stress due to the vibrational energy involved. Therefore, you must aim for a material that can allow such requirements.
Dot peen marking machines also differs based on the operations and features. Therefore, it is important to consider such for marking effectiveness and efficiency. Two dot peen marking machines of high value among engineers are the electric dot peen marking machine and the electric handheld dot peen marker.
Stamping

Stamping is a marking procedure that is commonly used with metals. It marks metals by applying pressure on a mold present on a serial number stamping machine bearing the marking to be stamped on the metal.
Stamping leads to the deformation of the material (which is the marking itself). Therefore, the markings are permanent and cannot be erased. While stamping is suitable for metals, it warrants a solid and flat surface. However, in the case of uneven surfaces, a computer-guided sophisticated micro-percussion process is used. This stamping method (also known as pin stamping) can be used for plastic and metals.