Metal marking

Properties of Metal Surfaces:
Requirements for Graving and Labeling

Types of Metal and Their Properties

Uncoated Metals (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum) – Provide a hard surface, ideal for laser graving. Polished metals require special pre-treatments for better color adhesion.

Coated Metals (e.g., anodized aluminum, painted surfaces) – Anodized metals can be laser engraved, while painted surfaces require special inks or engraving techniques.

Rough & Oxidized Metals – Rusty or uneven surfaces complicate graving; oxide layers can be used for contrast or need to be removed.

Optimization of Metal Surfaces

Cleaning – Removes oil, dust, and oxidation for better adhesion.

Grinding & Polishing – Enhances contrast and improves print quality.

Coatings & Primers – Regulate color absorption and improve durability.

Influence of Heat & Environmental Factors

Thermal Conductivity – Highly conductive metals require adjusted laser parameters.

Moisture & Corrosion – Can affect gravings; oxide layers influence durability.

Reflection – Highly reflective metals complicate laser and inkjet marking, while matte surfaces improve results.

Optimal Metal Preparation for Precise Marking

For optimal marking results, careful preparation of the metal surface is essential. A clean, uniform, and, if necessary, matte or pre-treated surface ensures the best possible adhesion of inks, laser engravings, or electrochemical markings. By applying targeted measures such as cleaning, grinding, and selecting appropriate coatings, high-quality and long-lasting markings on metal can be achieved.

Requirements for Metal Graving

Durability & Resistance

Abrasion-resistant, UV- & weatherproof
Chemical- & corrosion-resistant

Legibility & Adhesion

High contrast & precise gravings
Secure adhesion on smooth & rough surfaces

Process Adaptation & Environmental Compatibility

Compatible with laser, printing & engraving
Compliance with standards & use of sustainable materials

Graving Technologies for Metal

Laser Marking

Fiber Laser – Ideal for stainless steel & aluminum
CO₂ Laser – For coated metals

Laser Marking Solutions

Inkjet Printing

CIJ (Continuous Inkjet) – Serial numbers on aluminum & pipes
UV Inkjet – Resistant to abrasion & chemicals
Drop on Demand Inkjet (DOD) - Precise printing for large characters or logos on metal sheets or parts

Continuous Inkjet Systems

Drop on Demand Inkjet (DOD)

Prints large characters, logos, or barcodes directly onto corrugated or folded cartons
Uses pigmented inks for high contrast and readability on brown or recycled surfaces

DOD Solutions