Industrial marking has become essential for ensuring traceability, identification, and management of parts throughout their manufacturing cycle. Whether for metal components, polymers, glass, or electronic parts, the choice of marking machine or device, whether electric, pneumatic, or battery-operated, directly affects the durability, readability, and precision of engraved codes, logos, or symbols. Depending on the jet, scratch, ink, or column format used, and even considering the configuration of the access window, marking can be optimized to meet the specific needs of each production process. It is often recommended to request a quote to select the format best suited to your requirements. Two main options stand out: dot-by-dot reproduction, also called micro-percussion, and laser engraving. Each of these technologies uses a specific machine type and has its own advantages and limitations. Understanding these differences is essential to select the best system for your products and industrial processes.
Understanding laser marking
A laser marking machine uses a concentrated light beam to alter the surface of parts without mechanical contact, eliminating any scratching or wear. While some applications may also benefit from a small and portable engraving machine for dot peen marking on-site, the laser process relies on a sophisticated device where the light jet, emitted by an oscillator, is guided by mirrors and a focusing lens, and can be adjusted column by column for precise marking, similar to applying a virtual ink layer on the targeted surface. Marking is achieved through heat absorption, causing surface ablation or color change depending on the material. This technique is particularly suitable for polymers, steels, glass, rubber, and ceramics, but it can also be used on paper or wood.
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Laser marking allows the creation of logos, text, barcodes, and 2D codes such as Data Matrix, which are essential for tracking systems. Modern machines are often equipped with an interactive screen, USB connectivity, and can be integrated directly into the production line. Different models exist, from UV lasers to fiber or CO2 lasers, offering solutions adapted to various material types and requirements for contrast or depth.
In practice, laser marking offers several key strengths: it provides permanent, precise, and fast markings with high contrast, ideal for automated or manual reading. The technique is quiet, requires minimal maintenance, and protects delicate components since no mechanical contact is applied. However, initial investment is higher, and highly reflective surfaces may require specific preparation. Additionally, laser machines need a secure environment to avoid exposure to light beams.
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Exploring micro-percussion marking
Unlike laser marking, micro-percussion relies on the mechanical impact of a tip or stylet that strikes the surface of the part to create successive marks. This process produces raised or recessed engravings, highly resistant to physical and mechanical stresses. The tips can be made of carbide or diamond and operate via a pneumatic or electromechanical device. Depending on the configuration, the machine can be portable or integrated into the production line.
This technique is particularly suitable for robust materials such as hard metals, technical polymers, or certain industrial tubes. It allows engraving of logos, text, 2D codes, and permanent symbols directly onto the part, even if it is raw, oxidized, or irregular. It is ideal in harsh industrial environments exposed to dust, vibrations, or oils.
The main strengths of this marking method are :
- Deep and robust engraving that withstands mechanical stresses and wear.
- Compatibility with thick, bulky, or difficult-to-handle parts on a production line.
- The possibility to use portable devices or pneumatic machines for on-site marking.
However, this technique also has limitations:
- Marking may be less aesthetically refined than laser marking.
- Production speed can be slower, especially on small manual machines.
- The process can generate noise, requiring precautions in the workshop.
- Manual use requires training, expertise, and mastery of the pistol, stylets, or engraver to ensure quality and durability of the inscriptions.
Differences between laser and micro-percussion
To choose the most suitable marking technique, several criteria must be considered, including material type, production volume, code readability, and environmental conditions. Each machine or device, whether laser or pneumatic micro-percussion, has specific features that influence the precision, depth, and durability of the engraving. Factors such as potential scratching of surfaces, control of the jet, column configuration, and possible use of ink for certain processes should also be considered to ensure optimal results in industrial settings.
For fragile or sensitive materials, or parts that must remain free of dust or residues, laser marking is recommended. This technique ensures permanent, precise marking, ideal for high-density 2D codes and applications in pharmaceutical, food, or electronic industries. It also allows for aesthetically pleasing inscriptions on complex, curved, or transparent surfaces.
Conversely, when components are robust, metallic, or hard polymers subjected to heavy physical stress, micro-percussion marking offers significant advantages. Using its stylet and pneumatic impact system, this device creates a jet of deep marks that resist friction, scratching, shocks, and extreme temperatures. It is the preferred solution for mechanical components, pipes, engine blocks, or industrial tools.
Criteria for choosing the right marking technology
Selecting the most suitable machine requires considering several key criteria that directly impact the quality, durability, and efficiency of marking on your components. These criteria help determine whether to use laser marking or micro-percussion based on production volume, material type, and traceability requirements.
Material type
Material choice is decisive for the marking model. Laser machines are particularly effective on steel, polymers, glass, ceramics, rubber, or paper, offering precise and permanent markings without mechanical contact and without risk of scratching. In contrast, dot-based marking, using a device with a tip often pneumatic, is ideal for robust materials such as hard steels, technical plastics, or large parts. This method creates deep and durable engraving, formed by successive jets of marks with a well-calibrated column, and can be complemented by ink for certain tracking applications.
Production volume and speed
Production speed influences the choice of machine. For large automated series, laser marking provides a fast and uniform process thanks to its motorized scanning system and intuitive touch interface. For small batches, micro-percussion remains more economical and flexible, especially if the device is portable and can be used directly on-site without moving bulky or hard-to-transport parts.
Readability and code types
If your parts require 2D codes, barcodes, or other complex inscriptions, laser marking ensures permanent contrast, optimal reading, and quick recognition by automated systems. Micro-percussion produces visible and durable marks, but readability may be limited for very compact codes. Nevertheless, it remains highly effective for markings designed to withstand harsh industrial conditions.
Environmental conditions
The production environment must be taken into account. In workshops exposed to dust, oils, vibrations, or shocks, dot marking is often preferable. For a clean or controlled environment, laser marking ensures precise and aesthetic results, without scratching or component degradation.
Aesthetic and finish
Laser marking provides fine, uniform letters, logos, and codes, even on curved or irregular surfaces, while micro-percussion produces a more pronounced relief but less refined finish. The choice depends on the importance of visual appeal, readability, and precision for your products and parts.
Practical applications
In the automotive industry, engine parts and blocks are often marked by micro-percussion to withstand thermal and mechanical stress, while logos and codes on electronic components are done with lasers for optimal readability. In the pharmaceutical sector, bottles, packaging, and medical devices are consistently laser-engraved to ensure clean, permanent, and contact-free marking. The aerospace industry uses both techniques: micro-percussion for structural parts and laser marking for electronic components or aesthetic inscriptions.
Manufacturers often combine these techniques to meet diverse needs on a single part: laser for precision, contrast, and code readability, and micro-percussion for robustness and durability in demanding industrial environments.
