How To Remove Laser Engraving From Stainless Steel

If you've been searching for information on light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation engraving stainless steel, you lot've probably constitute articles that provide you with steps on how to practice information technology. The truth is: yous tin can't light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation engrave stainless steel. Here's why this metallic alloy is different.

Laser Engraving Stainless Steel Leads to Corrosion

Light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation engraving stainless steel removes an important protective layer. In fact, any method that digs markings on the surface (deep or shallow) will remove this layer.

This thin protective layer is equanimous of chromium oxide. Chromium oxide is formed naturally when chromium reacts with oxygen. This process is a desired course of oxidation known as passivation. The resulting layer prevents corrosion by stopping oxygen from reaching the underlying steel.

When that layer is removed, oxygen causes a chemic reaction on the bare steel. That reaction is known as oxidation. The result is rust, which creates weak spots that gradually destroy the material. That's what happens when yous mark stainless steel past laser engraving or laser etching.

Note that laser etching and annealing for stainless steel are sometimes used interchangeably.

Stainless Steel Must Exist Light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation Annealed, Non Engraved

To create marks such as logos or data matrix codes on stainless steel, you lot need to rely on a engineering science that does not remove the chromium oxide layer from the surface.

For such a need, simply 1 technology leaves a permanent marking directly on stainless steel. This technology is laser annealing, and it tin exist done using a metal light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation marker machine.

Laser annealing chemically modifies the steel located under the chromium oxide layer. To do so, the surface is heated until it melts temporarily. During this brusk time bridge (milliseconds), oxygen travels below the surface. This creates a desired and controlled course of oxidation under the surface.

What's the result? When the surface cools downwardly and solidifies, the surface colour is modified due to oxidation. This color is typically black, although a broad range of colors can be achieved. The resulting marker is beautiful, colorful and permanent.

Most chiefly, no textile is removed from the surface (as opposed to laser engraving, which ablates the material). This means that the protective layer is unaffected, and that your parts are protected from rust.

Why You Use Stainless Steel Dictates How You lot Mark It

The main reason for using stainless steel is because it grants protection against rust. Exhaust lines, for instance, need that protection considering they are constantly exposed to corrosive acids. Just there are other reasons for using stainless steel likewise. Medical devices are made of stainless steel for germ-free reasons. Car interiors may include stainless steel to obtain cute designs.

Laser annealing provides permanent traceability and meets all those requirements. Here'due south what you lot can expect:

• Permanent marks
• High dissimilarity marks
• High level of detail
• No cracks or bumps
• Wide range of colors
• Relatively irksome mark times
• No consumables
• Low maintenance

Discuss Your Stainless-Steel Application With a Laser Skilful

What tin can you obtain past discussing with an expert?

• Marking times
• Tests using your parts
• Possible marking colors (depends on your alloy/course)
• Quotes for laser machines and systems
• And much more than!

Inquire an Expert

Source: https://www.laserax.com/blog/laser-engrave-stainless-steel

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