INNOVATION THROUGH AUTOMATION

Laser Marking & Etching

About Automated Laser Marking Systems

Midwest Engineered Systems integrates automated laser marking systems optimized for fast and efficient output. Custom laser marking systems are built to your specific marking needs. Automated laser marking systems have the potential to maximize speed, output and accuracy, particularly for challenging marking operations.

Laser marking is the process of using pulsing or continuous-wave lasers to machine permanent marks on a material’s surface. Automated laser marking incorporates robotics and programming, applying advanced technology to the marking process of many manufacturing products.

In the laser marking process, a laser beam is directed at a material’s surface, affecting the physical properties of the material as well as the surface’s appearance. The result is a permanent high-contrast mark.

There are many methods of laser marking, including engraving, discoloration, etching, annealing and carbon migration. Automated laser marking can effectively mark a multitude of material surfaces. Some commonly laser-marked materials include steel, titanium, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, glass, plastic, wood, ceramic, cardboard and paper

Advantages of Automated Laser Marking

There is plenty of advantages that an organization’s manufacturing facilities can enjoy when integrating automated laser marking processes into their production systems. The following are among the most notable advantages:

  • Production Rates: Laser marking and automation reduce equipment downtime and allow factories to run lights-out operations. It also virtually eliminates mistakes in marking that would inevitably occur with manual marking processes. All of these factors contribute to higher production rates.
  • Energy Efficiency: Laser marking is a clean process that does not rely on consumables, unlike chemical or inkjet etching which uses chemicals and inks to create its markings. Laser marks are permanent and do not have to be reapplied or cleaned up afterward, as would be the case when operating printers long enough.
  • Non-Contact: Automated laser marking interacts with materials cleanly and efficiently, practically eliminating the chance of contamination. Laser marking essentially has little risk of material penetration.
  • Combating Counterfeiting: Counterfeiting is a global issue affecting many industries, particularly the pharmaceutical industry. Additionally, marking on pharmaceutical bottles must be tamper-proof, very easy to read, cannot affect the medical product and must be environmentally friendly. The optimal solution for counterfeiting and these other concerns is laser internal engraving.

Industries that use Automated Laser Marking

Laser marking is incorporated in many industries, including aerospace components, automotive parts, consumer electronics, medical equipment and pharmaceuticals.

Building the future of manufacturing, together

World-class Automation

Related Projects by MWES

Automated Assembly Line with AGVs

Automated Assembly Line with AGVs

MWES built a complete row unit assembly system for a large agriculture equipment company.
Track Seal Inspection and Assembly Automation

Track Seal Inspection and Assembly Automation

MWES provided this firm with a robotic automation assembly system for inspecting, assembling...
Bottle & Trigger Assembly Line

Bottle & Trigger Assembly Line

MWES provided a trigger and bottle assembly system that automatically filled bottles, sorted...
Engine Block Liner Insert Automation

Engine Block Liner Insert Automation

MWES integrated a robotic oven tending and engine assembly cell as part of an outboard engine...
Ventilator Duplicate Calibration Station

Ventilator Duplicate Calibration Station

MWES provided a firm with calibration stations as part of a manufacturing line for ventilator...
Automated Assembly & Testing Production Line

Automated Assembly & Testing Production Line

MWES provided this firm with a robotically automated assembly and testing line for producing...
Modernizing a Manual Assembly Line

Modernizing a Manual Assembly Line

MWES integrated a modernized manual manufacturing process with a suspended conveyance system...
Part Heating Conveyor System

Part Heating Conveyor System

MWES provided a firm with an automated system that would warm appliance doors/mullions on a...
Consumer Electronics Robotic Assembly System

Consumer Electronics Robotic Assembly System

MWES designed and integrated a robot assembly system for mass assembling electronic consumer-level...