There are many advantages to laser engraving over more conventional methods. Using a beam of light as a tool, engraving by laser produces a non-contact mark which results in less wear and tear on tooling and associated costs. There is also less chance for product damage and/or deformation. There are also no consumables and no problems disposing of toxic by-products, as there may be with some methods.
Laser engraving produces a mark that is crisp, clean and permanent. Lasers are also faster than many conventional methods of product imprinting, providing greater versatility in material choices. Also, the same machine can cut through thin materials as well as engrave on them.
While the original laser engraving systems were large, cumbersome, difficult to run and maintain, today's systems have evolved into machines that are simple to learn, operate, and take care of. The earlier systems also had more safety issues than today's systems and required the constant replenishment of gasses.
Today's equipment has evolved greatly from those early days. The lasers are now sealed and a constant flow of gas is unnecessary. The latest equipment also provides faster engraving speeds and features more options. Most service is performed via e-mail, fax, and phone with parts being exchanged, as necessary. Prices have also dropped making it feasible for more people. But the most significant change of all has probably been the interface of laser engraving equipment with computer technology.
The engraving system is connected to a computer via a parallel printer cable. A machine driver, provided with the machine, is installed into the PC. The process is much like adding a printer to your computer. Artwork is generated on the PC in a graphics program much like CorelDRAW (other products are used as well) or artwork is scanned in via a scanner, and then cleaned up as necessary. The manufacturer can assist you with selecting a computer that is best compatible with your laser engraving system. Keep in mind however that greater computer capabilities will result in greater engraving capabilities. You will quickly learn that laser engraving is very much a computer function. The best engravers we know are excellent graphic artists. |
