For marking surfaces with patterning, such as barcodes, images or text, manufacturers previously had to choose between screen printing or engraving. Costly, nonpermanent, and sometimes damaged parts, these processes were nevertheless common.
However, when laser marking is implemented, engineers can create characters, numbers and images without affecting the quality of the materials by utilizing the laser. This process uses focused laser light instead of a physical instrument to etch the surface or to transmit ink to create easy-to-read marks that are damage-free and readable. Find out more at lasitlaser.pl.
Keeping track of products, improving quality, minimizing counterfeiting and other advantages are the result of laser marking in the manufacturing industry. Here are a few benefits of laser marking in manufacturing that can help you grasp the potential of this technology.
During the process, no harm is done to the environment.
Inkjet and chemical etching are other marking processes that use ink and chemicals. In addition to being expensive for the business, they also have a negative environmental impact. Unlike laser marking, which requires consumables, laser marking does not. It is therefore energy-efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly.
Cleaning, fixing, and powering printers are also eliminated, resulting in reduced costs and downtime. Unlike labels, which can peel off or become damaged over time, laser markings are permanent and do not require repeated application.
With laser marking, there is minimal contamination because it is a non-contact process. The damage-free process involves minimal to no material penetration, where printing systems can burn down the material by marking.
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Manufacturers can comply with federal law by using laser marking.
In order to comply with federal regulations that protect quality, traceability, and other safety standards, many federal organizations require identification. The automotive industry, for example, uses part traceability to quickly locate and recall a defective component.
A unique device identifier is required on labels and packages for all medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration. AUDI is a unique code that contains a labeler code and a production code. The labeller code is used to identify the labeller and the model/version, while the production code represents several parts, such as date of expiration, serial number, etc.
Aerospace engineers are required by the FAA to mark propellers, engines, and other parts accordingly. According to the FAA, parts must be marked in a fireproof manner with the appropriate markings.
The Industrial Internet of Things can be connected to parts that have been laser marked.
Another benefit of laser marking is its compatibility with the IIoT. In the past, manufacturers operating more than one laser marking machine were forced to upload jobs manually each time a new order arrived (a laborious and inefficient process). A system developed by Mecco’s Marking & Traceability Division facilitates the smart manufacturing process by automating and laser-marking along with the IIoT.
One factory manager can remotely manage multiple jobs or automation lines simultaneously and remotely using the Mecco programmable logic controller, which works as a smart board.
According to David Sweet, president of Mecco Marking & Traceability, marking systems have not previously been able to communicate with a PLC directly. Adding automated part marking to manufacturing processes has proven challenging. A key benefit of the Remote API is its bi-directional communication capability. Our clients’ PLCs can now seamlessly be connected to their laser marking devices, which they could not do before.”
The product is less likely to be counterfeit.
There is no doubt that counterfeiting affects the global pharmaceutical industry. It is not only illegal, but also has numerous social and economic consequences. Global pharmaceutical sales are estimated to be 10 percent counterfeit. Furthermore, this opens up a terrorism and organized crime gateway, costing the industry $16 billion.
There are limitations to the type of markings pharmaceutical manufacturers can use. To ensure that the marking is tamper-proof and easy to read, or that it does not alter the product, it should be tamper-proof and easy to read. Consequently, laser internal engraving is the most attractive solution, as it leaves a visible and tangible mark.
Eric Mottay of LIA Today says industrial-class ultrafast lasers permit internal marking of containers without damaging them. During the interaction process, ultrafast lasers deliver an extremely high optical intensity and a short pulse duration, resulting in no heat dissipation, which means no micro-cracks are formed. Because the spots can be made very small, it becomes possible to make them virtually invisible and still guarantee reliable reading in proper lighting.”
