Serial number marking can be challenging when using the wrong marking machine. At Heatsign, our aim is efficiency and quality. Therefore, we provide the best serial number marking machines you can use. Below are three machines with different principles you should consider.
The HS-FL20 / HS-FL30 20W 30W Fiber Laser Marking Machine operates based on the laser marking principle. It is ideal for serial number marking due to the high readability and permanent marking it produce.
The HS-DE01/HS-DE03 Dot Peen Marking Systems operates based on vibration and can create clear, deep, and permanent engraving and marking on any material. It is ideal for high-performance serial number marking.
The HS-Portable Handheld Inkjet Printer is compatible with many materials and can lead to clear marking. It is commonly used due to the ease of operation and portability.
Serial number marking involves using techniques such as laser engraving, stamping, etc., and it has a wide application in many manufacturing industries. For example, in the automotive parts industry, serial number marking machine such as a serial plate engraving machine are employed for traceability, theft deterrence, and part identifications.
Even though serial numbers are very important, only a few people understand their significance. Therefore, this article will show you everything you need to know about serial number marking. This will include the processes and machines and how to choose the right method.
Serial numbers are unique codes that serve as a means of identifying a product or part. Depending on the industry using it, they are majorly used for tracing products. For example, in the automotive industry, vehicle manufacturers use serial number marking processes such as etching, engraving to put serial numbers on parts of their vehicles.
The main property of every serial number markings is high readability. This is important for an easy scanning process and effective functioning.
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:
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:
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 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.
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 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.
Choosing the right serial number marking process comes with understanding many factors. Therefore, here, we will show you some factors that you need to know to choose the right machine for serial number marking:
The type of materials you are working with will determine the marking process you must use. Material hardness is a very important factor when considering the type of material you are working with.
Also, another thing to note about the material is its subjection to thermal, chemical, or mechanical stress. Dot peening will subject the material to mechanical stress, but not thermal and chemical. Laser marking will, however, subject the material to thermal stress. Therefore, you should choose the right method based on such factors. Other factors related to the type of material include material reflectivity (which is not ideal for laser marking).
When getting a serial number marking machine, no matter the process (laser/dot peening), you must consider the marking depth the serial number marking machine can achieve. You must be able to answer questions such as how deep the marking must be to ensure readability. Check and choose the right serial number marking machine that can function under such requirements.
The process you will use must produce clear and legible serial number markings. The markings must be permanent, clean to scan, and difficult to erase. If you use laser marking, the HS-FL20 and HS-FL30 fiber laser marking machines are a good choice. However, if you are using the dot peen method, the dot peen engraver is suitable.
Machine portability plays a huge role in the ease of operation, efficiency, and serial number marking effectiveness. However, not all portable machines are suitable for industrial use. Therefore, you must be able to decide the right machine to use. There are many portable lasers marking machines and dot peen serial number engraving machines that are also portable.
Also, the machine must be easy to set up. It must not have clumsy moving parts, complicated software, etc. Another property to watch out for is that the machine must use software and have many cables and wiring.
The software must be user-friendly so that users can easily navigate and use it without encountering issues. Also, it must allow proper editing of numbers in terms of font size, style, and other editing functions.
Serial numbers are unique codes used in different capacities. It can be used for product identification and traceability. Creating a serial number is based on an existing algorithm. However, the inscription of serial numbers on parts comes with knowing different marking methods available in the marking industry.
This article discussed the different methods available and what to watch out for for a while, choosing the right one. While marking your part yourself can bring you intense joy, outsourcing to us at Heatsign will put your mind at peace. You get to enjoy a smooth and seamless serial number marking operation with access to our well-acquainted people. Therefore, for quality and reliable marking procedures, we are your best bet amidst the uncertainty that exists in the market.
