Fiber, MOPA, UV or CO₂ laser: how do you choose?
Compare sources based on the material, coating, desired result, precision and industrial context.
Read the guideNWS LASER RESOURCES · TECHNICAL LIBRARY
Guides and tools,
start from the part.
These resources help frame a laser marking project, choose a suitable source, prepare a DataMatrix and organize qualification on a part. When the application needs to be tested, they can serve as a starting point for a study or use case.
TECHNICAL GUIDES & TOOLS
Choose, size,
then qualify.
Sizing an industrial laser DataMatrix
Relate encoded content, marking area, module, reading and inspection before finalizing a traceability project.
Read the guideGetting a readable DataMatrix on copper
Prepare the part, marking area, reading method and inspection method for a code marked directly on copper or a busbar.
Read the guideLaser marking on engineering plastics
Choose a UV or MOPA option based on the material grade, colors, fillers, expected result and reading conditions.
Read the guideLaser marking on anodized aluminum
Prepare readable contrast by considering anodizing, finish, source to be qualified, functional surface and inspection conditions.
Read the guideLaser marking on stainless steel: annealing, engraving or contrast?
Define the desired result on stainless steel—surface condition, contrast, readability, depth and conditions of use—before testing.
Read the guidePreventive maintenance of a laser machine
Plan cleaning, extraction, cooling, training and anomaly monitoring according to the model's manual.
Read the guidePre-size a DataMatrix
Estimate a square symbol and the area to reserve based on assumptions about the data, module and reading.
Use the toolMarking capacity calculator
Estimate a production workload per shift, an indicative cycle time and the need for parallel stations based on your assumptions.
Use the toolUSE THE LIBRARY
Technical content
must lead to a decision.
- 01Start with the actual question
Material, part, data, result, throughput, reading or integration: each guide addresses a specific question.
- 02Prepare the assumptions
The available area, finish, sample data and reading method make the test more useful.
- 03Relate the method to the real-world context
NWS LASER applications show the part context; the study validates the process on a representative case.
APPLICATION STUDY
Does your part raise
a specific question?
Provide the material, finish, usable area, data or expected result, throughput and intended reading method. NWS LASER can help you prepare the test.
Technical library
Preventing laser risks in the workshop
Laser class, enclosure, suitable eyewear, fumes, and fire: points to check when organizing workshop safety.
Read moreLaser engraving of glass and ceramics: preparing for a validated result
Glass and ceramics: distinguish engraving, marking and cutting, prepare tests, and assess cracks, dust and fumes.
Read moreThe history of the laser, from laboratories to workshops
From research into stimulated emission to Maiman's laser in 1960: historical milestones and the transition to industrial applications.
Read moreMaintenance and replacement of a BOFA extractor motor
Insufficient airflow, an alarm or a breakdown: identify your BOFA extractor and prepare a motor service suited to its model.
Read moreCutting, engraving and marking leather with a laser
Laser cutting, engraving and marking of leather: verify the composition, test on a sample, and take precautions against fumes and fire.
Read moreLaser cutting, engraving and marking of elastomers
Rubber, silicone and lasers: distinguish the processes, check the composition and prepare tests with appropriate preventive measures.
Read moreLaser cutting, engraving and marking of composites
Cutting, engraving and marking composites: composition checks, manufacturer exclusions, sample trials and fume prevention.
Read moreLaser cutting, engraving and marking of textiles
Understand laser cutting, engraving and marking of textiles: composition, testing, limitations of the result, and prevention of fumes and fire.
Read moreLaser engraving and marking of natural minerals
Marble, granite, slate, quartz or mother-of-pearl: understand laser engraving, its limitations and the precautions to check on a sample.
Read moreLaser cutting, engraving and marking of foams
Polymer, metal or ceramic foams: laser applications, limitations, composition to verify and precautions before testing.
Read moreCutting, engraving and marking paper with a laser
Understanding laser processing of paper and cardboard: cutting, engraving, contrast, composition, testing, and prevention of fumes and fire.
Read moreLaser cutting, engraving and marking of plastics
PMMA, ABS, polycarbonate: understand laser processes, excluded materials, testing, and precautions against fumes and fire.
Read moreWhich materials can be laser cut, engraved or marked?
Identify the process suited to your material: documented guidance, exclusions, sample testing, and prevention of fumes and fire.
Read more