In manufacturing, every product and its materials need proper tracing. The part number allows you to identify the component and manage its use cases safely. However, maintaining the quality marks is tricky. In general, there are various types of industrial part marking methods. In this case, choosing the right method is crucial to your production line.
Introducing Industrial Part Marking
Industrial part marking is the process of permanently labeling products. It is performed at the end of production lines. Whether it is a complete product or spare parts, they are marked at the end of manufacturing or assembly.
Usually, barcodes, tracking codes, serial numbers, and batch numbers are marked on the items. Using these codes or numbers, you can identify your products or quickly track them through the supply chain.
There are several methods for industrial part marking. Some common methods include laser marking, inkjet printing, dot peen marking, and chemical etching. Each marking uses a different approach. Some engrave the surface, while others alter its properties. Some methods use separate ink or stickers for traceability.
The right marking type depends on your project needs and durability requirements. For example, laser marking can produce permanent dark marks on materials. However, it is limited to producing color marks. You can also consider putting a paper sticker, but it won’t ensure long-term usability.
Different Types of Industrial Part Marking
Once again, you can mark your part in various ways along the production line. Each of these methods uses different technologies. Besides, they also have unique advantages and limitations. Understanding these pros and cons allows you to find the best way to mark serial numbers.
Marcado láser
Laser marking is one of the most widely used processes across many sectors for industrial part marking. It uses a focused, intense light beam to create marks on the material’s surface. During the process, the beam heats, melts, and vaporizes the targeted spot, resulting in a clear code or text.
There are different types of laser marking, each with its own unique benefits. Some common marking methods include laser engraving, etching, foaming, annealing, coloration, and ablation.
Pros
- Laser marking can produce marks that withstand wear and tear.
- It works on metals, plastics, ceramics, and more.
- Laser marking is highly precise, contactless, and ink-free.
- You can integrate laser marking in automated production lines. As a result, it is highly suitable for industrial part marking.
Contras
- Laser marking may require a high initial investment.
- Particular materials need specific lasers.
Dot Peen Marking
Dot peen marking is a mechanical process that uses a stylus for marking. The stylus strikes the surface, which creates a series of small dots. These dots later form numbers, codes, letters, and other necessary information. Since this process involves pressurizing and impact to create engraved dots, it mainly works on metals. It is simple, easy, reliable, and widely used among many industries for permanent metal marking.
Pros
- Generated marks are highly deep, durable, and hard to remove.
- It works smoothly on hard metals and rough surfaces.
- Dot Peening needs comparatively low operation and maintenance costs.
Contras
- The entire process is loud and noisy.
- It is slower for high-volume production.
- Mark quality can be lower than that of laser technology.
Inkjet Printing & Stamping
Inkjet printing is another popular method for industrial part marking. It uses liquid ink to materialize the surface using a pressurized nozzle or a mechanical stamp. When the printhead moves along a conveyor, it leaves microscopic droplets of liquid on the materials. On the other hand, stamping presses the character directly on the parts. Both are fluid-based solution that works well on packaging, consumer goods, and plastics.
Pros
- Both methods allow fast marking and are suitable for high-volume projects.
- Inkjet printing supports marking uneven surfaces.
- The equipment costs are lower, and it is easy to operate.
Contras
- Ink may fade or wear off over time.
- Both methods may not be suitable for harsh weather and high temperatures.
Rotary Engraving & Scribing
Rotary engraving uses a spinning tool to create a channel physically. Scribing is similar but uses a diamond tip under pressure to cut lines. Both leave deep cuts in metals, making them suitable for high-end aerospace applications or industrial use.
Pros
- The method produces clean, deep marks on metals, plastics, and flat surfaces.
- It also produces a premium visual finish after marking.
- These markings are reliable and will not cause thermal damage.
Contras
- The marking is comparatively slower than laser and inkjet printing.
- Tools may wear and require replacement.
- These methods are not suitable for curved or rough surfaces.
Grabado químico
Chemical etching is also a popular method for industrial part marking, using masking and an acidic solution. When you expose the material in the solution, the unprotected surface triggers instantly, leaving a clean mark. Without applying any mechanical force or heat, it easily modifies the surface.
Pros
- Chemical Etching doesn’t require any mechanical stress.
- It can easily mark delicate metals.
- It also supports marking complex shapes.
Contras
- These chemicals require safe handling during use.
- Chemical marking is slower and not ideal for fast production.
Key Requirements of Serial Number Marking
You cannot simply put numbers on your part. It requires proper traceability, including unique values, durability factors, and performance. You must pay attention to the following five key requirements for serial number marking.
Unique Identification
Every part needs personal identification codes. Each part should have a unique serial number. Two parts should never share the same code. This way, it ensures product tracking from the factory floor to the consumer shops.
Performance and Durability
Marks should be durable and able to withstand extreme weather conditions. They cannot fade from friction or moisture, or be worn off by chemicals, either. Each serial number must be intact for the lifetime of use.
Velocidad de producción
Production speed is a key concern, especially in mass production. The marking speed must match your daily output. It cannot create a bottleneck. The process should be able to apply numbers in a fraction of a second.
Readability and Contrast
Another important concern is the quality and readability of the marking. Make sure to create a mark that is easy for the human eye and machine scanners to read. Always use high optical contrast and clean lines to avoid machine scanning errors.
Cumplimiento normativo
These industrial part marking codes must meet international standards and strict rules. These strict rules can include FDA UDI requirements, military standards, and so on. Using accurate and proper compliance helps to avoid product rejections.
How to Choose the Best Way to Mark Serial Numbers on Production Lines?
You know there are various ways to mark serial numbers on production lines. However, are they all suitable for your case? That’s where you should do some research and find the best way to mark your parts in your production line. Consider the following key factors when choosing the best marking method.
Consider the Key Requirements and Compare Each Marking Method
At first, you need to set your tracking goals and match them to the tech, whether it suits them or not. In this case, compare all the methods available and choose the one that meets all your requirements.
Product Material
Before choosing a method, analyze your material type. For hard metals, you can go for laser or the dot peen method, as they work well on both; dot peen may have material limitations. Use non-contact printing for delicate materials such as glass and plastics.
Check Marking Durability Requirements
Consider the after-phase of marking and the conditions that withstand such vulnerabilities. Avoid ink-based printing if it will be subject to friction or chemicals. Use laser engraving for these conditions.
Velocidad de producción
Match your requirement with the line speed. Laser and inkjet printing are among the fastest processes. With chemical or dot-peen marking, large-volume production slows.
Code Readability and Traceability
Ensure whether you need basic text or 2D codes. Each code must be scannable and readable for traceability. Lasers work well for such tasks, since they can produce high-resolution marks with precision.
Compare Operating Costs
Among the different methods, select the right one by comparing costs within your budget. Lasers may have an initial cost, but in the long run, they yield a fast return.
Ability to Automate the System
Check if the system supports automated marking. Lasers and inkjet printing can connect with PLCs and vision systems. Other manual methods are hard to integrate with automated systems.
Introducing Laser Technology for Industrial Part Marking
Laser marking is a versatile option for marking a wide range of materials. It removes material from the surface using a highly concentrated laser beam. Some lasers do not ablate material; rather, they modify its properties. That’s the job of the numerous sorts of lasers. The three categories below are widely used in product labeling in different industries.
Fiber Laser Coding Machine
Fiber lasers are an excellent choice as they are fast and powerful. Its power usually starts at 30W or higher for demanding lines. They work on high-speed fly coding right on the moving production line. These laser batch coding devices are ideal for marking on metals, food, and beverage packaging.
UV Laser Coding Machine
UV lasers use a short wavelength to perform cold marking rather than producing thermal stress. Thus, the technique alters the surface texture without burning the surface. The UV laser coding machines are high-precision equipment primarily used for thin cosmetics, plastics, and glass.
CO2 Laser Coding Machine
CO2 laser coding machines are used for non-metal materials. They work well on acrylic, wood, leather, and other non-metals. CO2 laser markers can also be used for laser ablation to mark covered metals. This technology delivers high-resolution marks at an economical cost for textiles, packaging, and commodities. It is easier to track for both customers and manufacturers.
Póngase en contacto con nosotros
If you are looking for custom-made laser markers for your production line, Hispeed Laser is the right choice. In addition to the standard options, HiSpeed Laser offers customized solutions. Besides, the company also offers reliable after-sales services, including on-site installation. Póngase en contacto con nosotros Para más información.