Laser Marking Application Case: Standard Marking on Stainless Steel

Equipment Configuration: Chuangxin MFP Series 20W / 30W / 50W Fiber Laser

Stainless steel is one of the most common metal materials for laser marking, used across nearly every industry—from kitchenware and medical devices to industrial components. This case focuses on standard marking effects on stainless steel surfaces—the most common gray-white or light black identification marks, suitable for serial numbers, brand logos, QR codes, parameter nameplates, and similar applications.

I. Material Characteristics

Stainless steel has a relatively high absorption rate for 1064nm fiber lasers. When the laser acts on the surface, a thin oxide film forms, producing a contrast ranging from gray-white to light black. Different grades (such as 304, 316, 430) respond slightly differently to the laser, but the basic parameter framework is generally applicable.

Advantages:

• Permanent, wear-resistant, and corrosion-resistant marks
• Clear contrast, suitable for automated identification
• No consumables required, low processing cost

II. Equipment Configuration

All three machines use acousto-optic Q-switched pulsed fiber lasers, 1064nm wavelength, air-cooled, suitable for standard marking on stainless steel.

III. Parameter Reference

The following are recommended starting parameters. In actual production, it is recommended to run a power-speed matrix test on scrap material before fine-tuning.

20W Model

30W Model

The 30W model has 50% more power than the 20W model. At the same percentage, the actual energy is higher, so the power percentage must be reduced by 25-35%. Do not directly apply 20W parameters.

50W Model

Key Point: The higher the power, the higher the absolute energy at the same power percentage. When switching from 20W to 30W or 50W, be sure to reduce the power percentage, otherwise it can easily cause burning, excessive blackening, or edge melting.

IV. Effect Characteristics

• Color: Light gray to dark gray, depending on parameter combination
• Contrast: Clear and distinguishable, suitable for machine reading (barcodes, QR codes)
• Feel: Slight tactile sensation, no obvious depression (not deep engraving)
• Wear Resistance: Permanent mark, not easily worn away

V. Precautions

1. Surface Cleaning: Wipe the stainless steel surface with alcohol before marking to remove oil and fingerprints; otherwise, contrast uniformity will be affected
2. Focal Point Calibration: Always use the red light pointer to confirm the focus; defocusing will result in blurry marks
3. Batch Production: The first piece must be inspected to confirm stable results before proceeding with batch processing
4. Thin Sheet Deformation: For sheets below 0.5mm, pay attention to power and number of passes to avoid thermal deformation

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VI. Application Scenarios

• Stainless steel nameplates and labels
• Medical device identification
• Kitchenware brand logos
• Industrial component serial numbers / QR codes
• Food equipment parameter nameplates

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Summary: Standard marking on stainless steel is the most basic and mature application of fiber laser marking machines. The 20W model is suitable for small-batch fine marking, while the 30W and 50W models offer higher efficiency for medium to large batch production. The key is to remember—when switching to a higher-power machine, reduce the power percentage.

*Actual results may vary slightly depending on material grade, surface condition, and equipment differences. It is recommended to conduct sample testing first.*