What is laser marking?

Laser marking is a direct part marking process using laser beams to create permanent marks on materials. It is commonly used for engraving serial numbers, barcodes, logos, and other identifying information onto various surfaces like metals, plastics, and ceramics. The process works by changing the surface properties of the material when it's exposed to the laser beam. This can be done through ablation (removing material), engraving (creating depth), color change, or annealing (heating the material to create a surface oxide layer).