Laser Marking Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Laser marking is a modern and effective way to mark, engrave or decorate various materials without touching their surface. Here we take a closer look at what laser marking is, how the technology works and how it is used in different industries.

What is laser marking?

Laser marking uses a powerful laser to create markings or engravings directly onto a material. The method is both fast and extremely precise, making it particularly suitable for industrial tasks where permanent marking is essential. Since the laser marks and engraves without physical contact, it also reduces the risk of damage and wear.
Laser marking

How does laser marking work?

The technology is based on a concentrated laser beam being directed at the surface of the material. The laser can either change the material's structure, color or create a depression, depending on the settings and the type of laser used. Since the process is controlled by computers, you can also easily create detailed and identical markings with each marking. This is precisely why laser marking is a flexible and reliable choice for both small and large product series.

Different laser marking methods and how they are used

There are different ways to laser mark, and each method has its strengths depending on what you want to achieve. Here we go over some common techniques, how they work, and when they are best suited.

Labelling with CO₂-laser

CO₂ laser marking is an established and versatile technology that uses a carbon dioxide laser to engrave or mark surfaces. The laser generates a high-energy beam that reacts particularly well with organic materials such as wood, leather, glass and some plasticsThe result is sharp, high-contrast markings – perfect for both product information and decorative details.

For those of you who label products individually, there are several user-friendly options from Trotec, such as the models in Q, Speedy and SP series – known for their reliability and intuitive handling. These machines are known for their stable construction and simple user interface.

However, if you have an automated production line and need to label large volumes at high speed, Linx offers powerful solutions such as: CSL series and SL3 – adapted for effective marking in operating environments with high demands.

Fiber laser marking

Fiber laser marking is a very fast and precise technology that is particularly well suited for marking of metals and certain plasticsThe technology is based on an intense laser beam being generated via a fiber optic amplifier, which provides high energy efficiency, low heat generation and excellent contrast – even for very small details. This makes the fiber laser ideal for industrial applications such as marking of machine parts, electronic components, tools, medical technology and safety marking.

For those of you who work with manual or piece-by-piece marking, Trotec offers effective solutions in SpeedMarker and U-series. These machines are designed to meet high demands for speed, precision and user-friendliness. If you want maximum flexibility, there is also Trotec's Flexx Technology™, which combines CO₂ and fiber lasers in the same machine - perfect when you want to be able to mark different materials without changing equipment.

For labelling in automated production lines, Linx offers its FSL laser, a robust and fast fiber laser designed for continuous operation in industrial environments. With its high precision and low maintenance requirements, the FSL is an excellent choice for companies that require consistent quality and reliability in high-speed marking.

Discover our fiber lasers

UV laser marking

UV laser marking is a technology that uses an ultraviolet laser beam with a very short wavelength (typically around 355 nm). This allows the laser to mark sensitive or heat-sensitive materials with extreme precision – without generating heat damage or changing the structure of the material. It is often called “cold marking” because it does not melt or burn the surface, which is especially advantageous when marking of thin plastic, glass, silicone, ceramic surfaces or electronic components.

UV laser is an excellent choice when high contrast is required on difficult materials, such as security marking, medical technology or components where other technology risks damaging the product. It is also suitable for applications where the marking must be microscopically small yet sharp.

Linx UVG5 is a powerful example of a modern UV solution for production lines. It combines high precision with low heat impact and can be easily integrated into existing marking solutions. The UVG5 is specifically designed for sensitive materials and delivers consistent results even at high line speeds – with minimal maintenance.

Galvo laser marking

Galvo laser marking is an advanced form of fiber laser where the laser beam is controlled by means of fast moving mirrors, known as galvanometers. This technology is particularly effective in industrial environments where large volumes need to be marked in a short time. Trotec's SpeedMarker and U series are examples of Galvo-based fiber lasers, which are ideal for marking things like electronics, metal components and machine parts.

Which laser is right for me?

Which materials are suitable for laser marking?

With the right technology, you can mark many different materials, and which material works best depends on the type of laser you are using. CO₂-laser is perfect for organic materials, while fiber lasers are better for metal and some plastics. With combination technologies, such as Trotec's Flexx Technology™, you can mark even more materials with the same machine.

Materials that work for laser marking

• Metals: Stainless steel, precious metals, aluminum, brass, copper, titanium, brass
• Plastics: Polyethylene, polycarbonate, acrylic
• Organic materials: Wood, paper, leather, cardboard
• Other: Glass, ceramics, stone, cork, rubber, porcelain

Materials not suitable for laser marking

• Inferior Leather (chrome VI)
• Carbon
• Polyvinyl chlorides (PVC)
• PVC based synthetic leather
• Polyvinyl butyral (PVB)
• Polytetrafluoroethylenes (PTFE/Teflon)
• Beryllias
• Materials containing halogens (e.g. fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine and astatine), epoxy or phenolic resins.

Advantages of laser marking

• High efficiency: Laser marking is fast and saves time, especially for large volumes.

• Excellent precision: You get detailed and precise markings, even on small and complex surfaces.

• Flexibility: The technology makes it possible to mark different patterns and texts as needed, without changing equipment.

• No wear on tools: Because the laser works contact-free, both wear and maintenance costs are reduced.

• Adaptable to different materials: It is easy to adjust the marking to different requirements and material types.

• Suitable for both small and large companies: Thanks to its versatility and cost-effectiveness, laser marking is a smart choice regardless of company size.

Typical applications for laser marking

For companies with requirements for permanent marking, high readability and traceability The right marking technology is crucial. Whether it is serial numbers, data matrix codes or batch information, the marking must withstand time, handling and sometimes even harsh environments. Laser marking is often the first choice in these contexts – not only because it provides sharp and durable results, but also because it enables complete traceability throughout the production chain. It is a solution for those who do not compromise on quality assurance.

Industrial manufacturing

It is common for companies in the automotive and manufacturing industries to use laser marking to mark components with serial numbers, logos, and traceability data, as this technology provides durable markings that can withstand challenging tasks in demanding production environments.

Electronics and medical technology

In the electronics industry, laser marking is used to mark small and delicate components that require detailed work. In medical technology, for example, this marking method is important for creating permanent markings such as text and numbers on instruments, implants and other medical products.

Consumer products and design

For manufacturers of jewelry, watches and promotional products, laser marking is a way to elevate the brand, both literally and figuratively. Here, the laser is used to create detailed engravings, personalized inscriptions or subtle patterns directly on the surface with a clear and durable result.

Logistics and packaging

When it comes to inventory management, a smart way is to mark or engrave barcodes, dates and batch numbers directly on packaging, without having to mess with labels, markers and other things that don't last as well. This makes it easier to track goods and keep inventory organized. What's more, the marking lasts even when the packaging is exposed to wear and tear and other stresses.

Laser marking is growing – and for good reason

In recent years, the use of laser marking has increased significantly across several industries – from food and beverage to pharmaceuticals and logistics. The driving force? A combination of stricter sustainability goals, requirements for recyclability and the need for effective, permanent marking.

Laser provides permanent markings directly on the product or packaging – without ink, labels or consumables. This means less waste, fewer chemicals and easier recycling, making the technology a natural choice in an era where every part of production is being looked at with new environmental glasses.

For example, several retail chains have replaced labels on fruit with “natural branding,” pharmaceutical companies are labelling directly on blister packs, and logistics companies are laser marking corrugated cardboard to simplify sorting and reduce downtime.

The future? Everything indicates that laser marking will become a central part of circular production – and a path towards cleaner, smarter and more sustainable marking.

Things to consider when choosing a laser marking system

Are you going to label products in an automated production line – or do you handle each product piece by piece?
Your way of working has a big impact on which laser marking solution is best suited. When choosing a system, it's important to look at the big picture – not just what you mark, but how and at what rate.

Consider the following:

• Which materials should be labeled?
• Durability of the marking (e.g. against heat, abrasion, liquid)
• How large volumes do you handle?
• What marking results do you expect (contrast, detail, permanence)?
• What rated speed is required to follow the production flow?
• Do you work piece by piece or in an integrated production line?
• Does the system need to be able to integrate with, for example, PLCs, databases or vision solutions?
• How user-friendly does the system need to be for operators in daily operations?
• What are your requirements for maintenance and operational reliability?
• Do you want to be able to combine different laser types in the same solution?

Thinking through these factors will help you choose the right technology from the start – so that labelling runs smoothly, now and in the future.

Frequently asked questions about laser marking

How expensive is it to get started?

The initial cost of laser marking depends on the type of laser and the performance you need – it’s like asking how much a vehicle costs without knowing whether you mean a motorcycle or a truck. A smaller, simpler laser marking machine (e.g. a benchtop model) costs considerably less than a large, high-power industrial system, so the price range is wide. Lasers often have higher initial investment than, for example, inkjet printers or labelling equipment, but keep in mind that they require essentially no consumables (no ink, no label material) and are virtually maintenance-free in operation. Thanks to the lack of running costs and minimal service, laser systems can therefore be cost-effective in the long run, even if the purchase price is higher.

Is it possible to tag moving objects?

Yes, with the right equipment it is possible to laser mark objects. on the move. Industrial laser systems have a mode called “marking on the move”, where the laser detection is synchronized with the speed of the object to hit the right spot. For example, marking laser systems from Trotec (SpeedMarker series) or Linx can be integrated directly into a production line and mark products without stopping the flowSome laser markers can handle very high speeds – the Linx CSL60, for example, can mark up to 2100 characters per second – so even fast-moving objects can be clearly and permanently marked while in motion.

Can you mark in color?

Laser marking does not use any dye or ink, so it does not work like a regular color printer that can print all colors. Usually you get a solid color and high-contrast marking – for example, dark text on a light background or vice versa – by the laser changing the surface of the material with heat. However, there are special techniques that give a certain color result. With a special fiber laser (MOPA) that is available from Trotec, for example, you can mark anodized aluminum in black or create different temper colors on stainless steel. So certain color coding is possible in limited form on specific materials, but generally speaking, the laser produces a limited color spectrum (usually in the form of lighter or darker shades of the substrate).

How we at Logimark help you

With us you get more than just the right equipment – you get a partner who follows you all the way.
We offer:

• A wide range of laser types – for different materials, needs and production environments
• Customized solutions built for your specific reality – regardless of whether you work in line or piecemeal
• Support throughout the entire process – from test marking and needs analysis to installation and commissioning
• Training for operators and technicians as well as long-term aftermarket with service and spare parts

We are here to ensure that your labelling works – simply, efficiently and without interruption.

Do you have more questions about laser marking?

Do you need help choosing the right laser marking system or do you have questions about which technology best suits your needs? Then contact us and we will be happy to help you get everything sorted.
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