There are a few types of laser machines that are well-suited for engraving metals:
-
Fiber Laser - This is one of the most common and versatile lasers used for metal engraving. Fiber lasers use a ytterbium-doped gain medium and produce laser light at near-infrared wavelengths. They can engrave stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, precious metals and more.
-
CO2 Laser - CO2 lasers generate laser light in the far infrared spectrum. Their longer wavelength can penetrate and mark some metals like anodized aluminum and coated steels. Less effective on bare metals than fiber lasers.
-
Nd:YAG Laser - The neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet crystal lasing medium produces light in the near-infrared. Nd:YAG lasers with shorter pulses and high peak power are suitable for shallow engraving of metals.