A laser marking machine writes text, logos, serial numbers and codes on parts by steering a laser beam with fast mirrors (galvo scanner) through a lens. Fibre lasers mark metals and many plastics; CO₂ lasers mark wood, glass, paper and some plastics; UV lasers mark sensitive plastics and glass with little heat.
Quick facts
- Main types
- Fibre (1064 nm), CO₂ (10.6 µm), UV (355 nm), MOPA fibre
- Typical power
- About 20–100 W fibre; 3–10 W UV
- Marking area
- About 70×70 to 300×300 mm (11.81×11.81 inch), set by the lens
- Speed
- Marks a typical serial number in a few seconds
- Software input
- Text, vector logos, serial numbers, barcodes, QR codes
- Footprint
- Desktop or small standalone; can sit in a production line
Main parts
- Laser source (fibre, CO₂ or UV)
- Galvo scanner with two fast mirrors that steer the beam
- F-theta lens that sets the marking area and spot size
- Z-axis column to set the focus height
- Control software for text, logos and changing serial numbers
- Optional rotary axis for marking round parts all round
Which laser for which material
| Laser | Marks well | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre | Steel, stainless, aluminium, brass, many plastics | Most common in workshops |
| MOPA fibre | Same, plus colour marks on stainless and black on anodised aluminium | Adjustable pulse width |
| CO₂ | Wood, acrylic, leather, glass, paper, rubber | Poor on bare metals |
| UV | Sensitive plastics, glass, PCBs | Very little heat |
Good to know
- Higher power engraves deeper and faster but does not mark finer
- A bigger lens gives a bigger area but a larger spot and less detail
- Enclosed (Class 1) machines are safer for the shop floor
- Fume extraction is needed when marking plastics and coatings
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Questions
- Which laser marking machine is best for metal?
- A fibre laser, usually 20–50 W. A MOPA fibre laser also gives colour marks on stainless steel and clean black marks on anodised aluminium.
- Can a laser marking machine cut metal?
- Only very thin foil. It is built to mark and engrave, not to cut; cutting sheet needs a laser cutting machine with an assist gas and a moving head.
- Can it mark round parts?
- Yes, with a rotary axis that turns the part, or by marking within the lens's depth of focus on small diameters.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 18 October 2026.