Omtech LYF-20MN - Instructions for Specific Materials

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4.3 Instructions for Specic Materials
When engraving a new material, it can be helpful to engrave a test matrix of small boxes produced with various
speed, power, and frequency settings to home in on the exact eect that you are looking for. To speed the process,
here are some general guidelines for commonly engraved materials.
However, these are only guidelines for your convenience and it is the responsibility of the user to consult material
safety data sheets and other sources to ensure the safety of working with various materials and setups. Some of
the materials listed will require additional workspace and personal protective equipment in addition to this laser
marking machine.
Metals
When engraving metals, generally use high power, a low frequency, and low to medium speed settings. To avoid
using your laser marking machine at greater than 80% power for extended periods, you can also get similar eects
by reducing the power somewhat while also increasing the number of passes or decreasing the engraving speed.
Be mindful that some metals will produce conducting, reective, and/or toxic dust. Softer metals naturally produce
more dust during engraving, while harder metals can require higher power settings that also produce more dust.
In addition to the risk to the user's skin and eyes, there may be enough dust produced (especially for repetitive
industrial applications) that a full ventilation system is required to address the problem. Similarly, operators and
others in the work area may need to use breathing PPE such as masks and respirators.
Aluminum: Bare aluminum requires a somewhat higher frequency than other metals and will never produce a
strong black mark similar to those created by engraving steel. When darker marking is required, consider employing
anodization or producing a deep engraving that can be darkened by using black epoxy or other filler. Anodized
aluminum requires a little more speed but a very low frequency. Powder Coated Metals: Metals with a powder
coating usually require a very high frequency and, for best results, at least 3 passes to remove the coating and polish
the bare lower layer.
Precious Metals: Gold and similarly soft metals should be engraved with less power but a moderate speed. Silver
and other semidurable metals are best engraved at a slightly higher power and slightly slower speed, but still not at
the same power and speed as steel or aluminum.
Plastics
When engraving plastics, generally use low power and high speed settings. Marking and engraving with too much
power or at too low a speed can concentrate too much energy at the point of contact, causing the plastic to melt.
Among other problems, this may produce, poor engraving quality, noxious fumes and even res.
Stone
When engraving various kinds of stone, generally use moderate power and speed at low frequency. As with
ceramics and metals, be mindful of the dust created (especially for repetitive industrial applications) and take
similar measures to ensure the safety of users and others in the work area.