This guide is designed to help our B2B and industrial partners select the optimal laser technology for their specific material and application. By housing Fiber, CO2, and UV laser systems under one roof in Newcastle, we provide a suitability-driven approach to manufacturing, ensuring every laser engraving and cutting requirement is dealt with using the correct process.
Technical Comparison of Laser Technologies
1. Fiber Laser Systems (λ=1064nm)
Our Fiber lasers are the workhorse of industrial metal marking. Operating in the near-infrared spectrum, they are highly absorbed by metals, making them ideal for high-speed, high-contrast marks on stainless steel, titanium, aluminium, and brass.
- Best for: Serial numbers, QR codes, and deep engraving for harsh environments.
- Key Advantage: Exceptional durability; the mark becomes part of the metal’s structure, resisting chemical washes and heavy abrasion.
2. CO2 Laser Systems (λ=10.6μm)
The CO2 laser is our primary tool for organic and non-metallic materials. It excels at both deep surface engraving and high-speed precision cutting of materials up to 10mm thickness.
- Best for: Hardwoods, acrylic (Plexiglas), leather, and glass.
- Key Advantage: Produces “flame-polished” edges on acrylic and rich, dark contrast on wood, eliminating the need for post-processing.
3. UV Laser Systems (λ=355nm) – “Cold Marking”
Our UV laser is a specialist tool for delicate or heat-sensitive materials. Unlike IR lasers that melt the surface, UV light breaks molecular bonds through a photochemical process. This results in a high-contrast mark with a Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ) of nearly zero.
- Best for: Medical-grade plastics (PEEK, HDPE), micro-electronics (PCBs), and fine crystal.
- Key Advantage: Sterile, perfectly smooth marks that do not compromise the material’s structural integrity or surface finish.
Material Compatibility Matrix
| Material Type | Fiber (1064nm) | CO2 (10.6µm) | UV (355nm) | Typical Application |
| Stainless Steel | Excellent | N/A* | Good | Industrial Traceability |
| Aluminium | Excellent | N/A* | Good | Aerospace Components |
| Hardwood/Plywood | N/A | Excellent | Good | Branding & Signage |
| Acrylic | N/A | Excellent | Good | Custom Cutting / POS |
| Medical Plastics | Poor | Fair | Excellent | Sterile Implants / UDI |
| Electronic PCBs | Poor | Poor | Excellent | Micro-Serialisation |
| Fine Glassware | N/A | Good | Excellent | High-End Branding |