Engraving has virtually endless applications. It is successfully used in almost all areas – from handicrafts to mass industrial production. Laser engravers allow you to apply the selected image to any surface with the highest possible accuracy. In this article, we will provide you with more information about the capabilities of the laser cutting machine.
How a Laser Engraver Works
Modern laser engravers are CNC machines, mainly of portal design. They differ depending on the initial power, the size of the working surface, the design features of the emitters, and the process mechanics.
The following types of materials can be processed on a laser engraver:
- All kinds of wood, including solid wood, plywood, veneer, etc.
- Polymer materials, including PVC, acrylic, organic glass, etc.
- Artificial and natural leather, textiles.
- Cardboard and paper.
The image is applied to the selected surface due to the directed combustion process at the point where the beam is focused. Due to the device’s design and the technological features of the process, when working with a laser engraver, it is necessary to exclude the processing of metal blanks. Working with such materials requires specialized equipment, where the power of the emitters is significantly higher than in standard engravers intended for home and small-scale production. Combustion of surface layers requires higher temperatures and additional processing of blanks with special matting compounds.
As a rule, vector images, which include any inscriptions, trademarks, logos, and other elements, can be applied to any material at the customer’s request. Raster images, which traditionally include portraits, landscapes, and other types, are used on special plastic that is distinguished by its multi-layered composition, often incorporating materials such as wood or plywood. For the applied drawing to have high definition and be readable, the material of the blanks must be selected correctly.
Capabilities and Application of a Laser Engraver
These machines are designed to decorate items made of virtually any solid material. They can be used to apply drawings, inscriptions, or patterns to the surface of wood, leather, glass, plastic, and other materials. The device can be used to create:
- Company logos.
- Brand badges.
- Advertising materials.
- Information signs.
- souvenirs.
- Stamps and seals.
- Named awards.
- Paintings, etc.
The machines are designed not only for applying drawings to a workpiece, but also for polishing, grinding, and cutting materials. The machine can also be used to make 3D elements and drill holes.
Application Examples
Now, let’s talk about specific examples of the application of this technology.
Phone Cases
The vast range of accessories for mobile phones does not always satisfy the needs of buyers, so a case with your own design can be a great gift. Laser engraving makes a smartphone case truly unique. With its help, you can decorate a case made of genuine or artificial leather, plastic, wood, or other materials.
Stamp
One of the most popular business areas today is the production of stamps, bookplates, and cliches on a laser engraver. In this case, a special rubber is used as a material. The ability to apply any drawing or inscription makes the production of seals and stamps extremely popular among users.
Roller Cookie Press
The blanks for such products are ordinary rolling pins made of wood or plastic. Laser engraving technology enables you to apply text, patterns, or drawings of any theme – for New Year’s, birthdays, Halloween, or any other special occasion.
A feature of manufacturing a dough press on laser machines is the round shape of the processed surface. The manufacture of such items is possible only on those machines where the CNC stand supports the possibility of equipping the machine with an additional rotary axis.
Puzzles
Laser engravers allow you to make puzzles and brain teasers of any complexity from solid wood or plywood of any thickness. When making such items, the first task in processing includes engraving, followed by cutting the part. For making puzzles, long-focus lenses are most often used, which are capable of burning through a sheet of plywood in one go.
Decorative Items
Creating decorative items using engraving machines is a popular activity among users. Engraving applied to transparent plastic or glass can produce an excellent visual effect when used with properly selected lighting. When applying engraving to organic glass, the surface of the workpiece should be coated with a special matting compound, which will then be washed off with a solvent.
Plywood Furniture
Plywood is characterized by high strength, ease of processing, and successful decorative characteristics. It looks equally good in classic and futuristic solutions. Not only is furniture very popular, but also decorative wall panels, radiator screens, lamp shades, and other plywood products.
Leather and Leatherette Products
Engraving on genuine or artificial leather products is also a popular trend. Wallets, passport covers, and other personalized products will make a valuable and memorable gift for any occasion.
Packaging
Laser engravers allow you to create packaging for goods according to individual layouts. The machine will also easily apply the necessary markings to the packaging material and cut it according to the specified dimensions.
Conclusion
Laser engraving is a technology that combines high precision, speed, and versatility in the production of products with individual designs. With the help of a laser engraver, you can create an exclusive gift for a loved one or make your image or interior truly special.
