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Permanent marking on metal surfaces: Which technology is more suitable?

Each part in industrial production has an identity. This identity; The product tracking system is of great importance in terms of warranty process, quality control and legal traceability. Permanent marking processes on metal surfaces should be resistant to high heat, chemicals and external factors. Therefore, the selection of marking technology is not only a choice of equipment; It is a strategic decision that affects the future of production.

Today, two main technologies stand out to process data on metal surfaces: laser marking and inkjet (ink spray) coding. While each offers different advantages, their performance varies according to the application conditions. Electrojet Technology makes the most accurate solution to the producers by evaluating both methods at the engineering level.

Laser branding: sharp and permanent traces in metal

Laser marking is a method of leaving a permanent trace by changing the physical structure of the metal surface with a focused light beam. Especially in materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, copper and titanium give very effective results.

In this method, ink, solvent or consumables are not used. Laser beam can oxidize, scrape or color the surface. This makes the text or code appear to be processed on the surface.

The biggest advantage is the permanence of print. Laser marking; It is resistant to scratches, abrasion, high heat and chemical contact. This feature makes the laser indispensable in the sectors with zero error tolerant sectors such as automotive, aviation, defense industry and medical equipment.

However, laser systems have high investment costs and the desired contrast may not be obtained on some surfaces (eg bright coated metals). In addition, excessive power on thin metal surfaces can weaken the structure of the material. Therefore, professionally selected laser strength and wavelength is critical.

Inkjet Coding: Flexible, fast and does not harm the surface

Inkjet technology makes marking by spraying ink droplets without any physical contact to the surface. High -resolution inkjet systems developed by Electrojet provide clear, readable and high contrast on metal surfaces.

This technology is especially ideal for businesses in need of variable data (serial number, date, lot number, barcode, QR, etc.), especially in large production lines. Inkjet systems can work with different colors and ink inks, as they can adapt to dark or light -colored metals. In addition, even very small areas can be made precise data printing.

One of the biggest advantages of Inkjet systems is that it does not harm the surface. Unlike the laser, physical intervention is not performed to the structure of the metal. This is a great advantage, especially for fine sheets, coated surfaces or parts that should not be broken.

However, inkjet prints are not as permanent as the laser. In challenging external conditions (high heat, continuous friction, solvent theme), the risk of erasing may occur over time. However, this risk can be minimized with the right ink selection and surface preparation.

Laser marking? Inkjet coding? How to choose the right technology?

Which marking technology is more suitable on metal surfaces depends on a multidimensional analysis process, not a single criterion. The following questions may be guiding in the election process:

  • How long the pressure ?
  • the other operations (painting, heating, coating) applied on the part ?
  • the speed and automation level of the production line ?
  • the size and accessibility of the area to be branded ?
  • the environmental conditions (heat, humidity, chemical effect) where the product passes

The answers to these questions play a critical role in determining the most suitable marking technology for your production process. Electrojet develops both laser and inkjet systems as technology and develops special solutions for your business; We offer permanent, traceable and fully integrated marking infrastructure with production.

Get to know your material, choose your technology correctly

Branding on metal surfaces is not just a printing process; It is the process of sealing the identity of the product. Marking with the right technology improves production quality, reduces errors and increases brand value.

Whether it's a durable laser scar or a flexible inkjet coding… The important thing is not to the surface; to develop a suitable solution to the process. Electrojet designs this solution with you.

Selcuk Alptekin

The author has experienced experience in the inkjet coding sector for more than 20 years. He was the sales manager at Electrojet