Laser Processing Techniques

What is "Laser processing"?

What is "Laser processing"?
Laser processing uses thermal radiation in order to change the surface texture/conditions of a target. The laser irradiates a target with a high-energy beam of light that causes the target surface temperature to rapidly rise. This massive increase in temperature will melt or evaporate the target material, resulting in a physical change to the surface.

Types of Laser processing

Types of Laser processing
Laser processing is classified into "removal", "connection" and "reformulation". Cutting/boring are classified into "removal" while general marking can be classified into "removal" or "reformulation".

Advantages of KEYENCE's laser markers

Advantages of KEYENCE's laser markers compared with cutting process

(1) Target objects will not crack or deform
KEYENCE's laser markers provide noncontact cutting that won't damage target objects. Product quality can be stabilized by eliminating deformation or cracks caused by contact cutters.
(2) Maintenance-free
There is no need to regularly oil or clean a cutting blade.
(3) Homogeneous processing
Laser marker's noncontact cutting eliminates surface irregularity.
(4) No XY stage and lower initial costs
KEYENCE's laser markers need no linear stages to align target objects for cutting. A variety of shapes can be manipulated using the laser beam scanning mirrors.
(5) Graphic data can be loaded and edited
You can load graphic data with dedicated software and arrange it based on the shape of the target object. It significantly reduces time required for setup or editing.

Utilization of Laser processing

Examples of boring, cutting, half cut, paint etching and surface etching are introduced here. A laser marker can respond to a variety of applications with laser scanning and power control.

BORING

BORING

CUTTING

CUTTING

Half cutting of a label

Half cutting of a label

Cutting a wire sheath

Cutting a wire sheath

PAINT ETCHING

PAINT ETCHING

SURFACE ETCHING

SURFACE ETCHING

[Stripping ITO Film on Glass Plates]

Stripping ITO Film on Glass Plates