Stainless Steel Engraving & Marking Solutions

Stainless steel engraving and marking involves creating permanent marks or designs on the material’s surface. These markings can include text, logos, barcodes, or other identification and branding. The process typically uses lasers, which remove or alter the surface layer of the material to produce high-contrast marks. Lasers are often preferred as they do not compromise the integrity of the stainless steel.

The machine's laser focuses a concentrated beam of light onto the metal, either engraving by removing material or marking by changing the metal's color through heat. Operators are able to get the detailed and durable results that they require due to its precision. Laser marking on metal does not require physical contact with the steel itself.

Laser marking systems are a preferred choice for marking and engraving stainless steel for many reasons. For one, it offers precision, which is necessary for most companies. Secondly, lasers are also fast and durable. Unlike alternative methods, their focused beam of light creates marks without directly contacting the material. Because of this, a clean, permanent mark is possible without causing wear and tear to the surface.

Laser marking stainless steel works well because it can withstand extreme conditions. Production facilities might face challenges with heat, chemicals, and heavy wear. However, laser technology can still be integrated into these types of demanding environments. Additionally, laser marking is highly accurate and consistent. So, if you have complex designs or small fonts to mark, there is no issue getting the results you’re after.

Now that we have a better overview of what it is and why it is useful, let’s look at some common use cases. For manufacturers, it is used to mark parts with serial numbers, logos, or safety instructions. The medical field marks surgical instruments and devices with precise identification. Safety and regulatory compliance are priorities and laser engraving stainless steel meets the requirements.

The automotive industry also relies on engraving for parts identification and traceability. If there is ever a safety recall or issue, components can be tracked through the supply chain. Aerospace companies benefit from engraving for labeling many components used in aircraft. As this industry is tightly regulated, the marks are needed so that parts meet strict industry standards.

KEYENCE laser systems use advanced laser technology to mark stainless steel. The 3-axis laser systems work by controlling the movement of the laser beam across three dimensions: X (horizontal), Y (vertical), and Z (depth). Technology like this allows the laser to engrave or mark surfaces with varying heights, curves, or angles and cannot be found in conventional laser systems.

Once ready, a laser beam is directed onto the surface of the steel, where it vaporizes a thin layer of material, leaving a permanent mark. KEYENCE’s 3-Axis fiber laser marker and 3-Axis hybrid laser marker can handle a range of stainless steel types and thicknesses. Intricate or multi-layered stainless steel parts are handled with ease by a stainless steel laser marking machine.

KEYENCE laser systems go beyond simple engraving. Through experience, technology, speed, and accuracy, our systems are ideal for high-speed production and intricate designs. If you're looking for reliable, high-performance stainless steel engraving or marking, contact us today.