Laser Marking
Consumable-free, permanent marking
What It Is
A non-contact marking technology that uses a focused laser beam to alter the surface of a substrate (via ablation, foaming, or color change) to create a permanent mark.
How It Works
A laser source (CO2, fiber, or UV) generates a beam that is directed by galvanometer mirrors to trace the required code onto the product surface, causing a physical or chemical change that forms the mark.
Typical Machine Appearance
A sealed laser head/scanner unit mounted above the line, connected to a control cabinet housing the laser source and electronics.
Typical Applications
- • Date/batch coding on films and cartons
- • Product surface marking (metal, plastic)
- • Traceability codes requiring permanence
Suitable Substrates
Speed & Print Quality
Speed: High, largely independent of ink-based limitations
Quality: Excellent contrast on compatible/coated substrates; variable on standard uncoated substrates
Consumables & Maintenance
Consumables: None (no ink/ribbon) — periodic optics cleaning only
Maintenance level: Low — no consumable replenishment, mainly optics and filter cleaning
Best-Fit Industries
Advantages
- Zero running consumable cost
- Permanent, tamper-evident mark
- No ink drying or ribbon logistics
Limitations
- High upfront capital cost
- Requires laser-reactive coating on many films (added material cost)
- Safety/enclosure requirements
- Limited color options (typically monochrome mark)
Common Mistakes
- Assuming laser works on any film without checking laser-reactive additive compatibility
- Underestimating enclosure/safety compliance cost
- Ignoring laser source lifespan and replacement cost
Hidden Cost Factors
- Laser-reactive film additive cost (paid to film supplier, often invisible in machine TCO)
- Laser source/tube replacement after rated hours
- Safety enclosure and interlock costs
When Not To Use Laser
When substrate is not laser-reactive and additive cost is not justified by volume — inkjet or TTO may be more economical.