Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


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Laser-marking on metal

I can only find a single product marketed for laser engravers to mark on metals. At $135 per 1/2 pound, I think it's way too expensive plus, it only comes in black (that I've been able to find), and you have to wash off the excess with water.

I don't mean to sound like I'm talking down to anybody since this is a technical forum, but the process I learned is very primitive. This is how it works: you mix it with water, "paint" it on your metal surface, let it dry then laser engrave the substrate. The heat from the laser thermally bonds the stuff to the surface. Then, you run the piece under water and wipe off any excess.

I don't know enough about metal finishing, but there HAVE to be other products available that are cheaper, in other colors, non-toxic when heated with a laser and produce the same results. I guess the key is finding a material that will stick to the etching, but wipe off the un-etched parts.

Can anyone suggest the names for me to search? Will powder coatings work in the manner described?

Thanks.

Beth Ann Greer
Laser Engraving - Terre Haute, Indiana, US
2005

I have black anodized aluminum and then used a laser to burn through the anodize down to the actual aluminum. It turned out very well. I used a shop in town that has a laser setup just for this purpose. It cost around $200 to do but the piece of material is very large in size.

Bryan Parker
- New Mexico
2005