About Laser Cutting & Laser Etching

WHAT IS A LASER?

A laser is a specialized piece of equipment giving off light by optical amplification based on the stimulated emission of photons.  Now that sounds rather intimidating, doesn’t it?

“Laser” is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.”.   The history of the Laser is a fascinating story.  In 1917 Albert Einstein established the theoretic beginnings in a paper titled “On the Quantum Theory of Radiation.”  During the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s many scientists refined and advanced the theory.  In 1964 Charles H. Townes, Nikolay Basov and Aleksandr Prokhorov shared a Nobel Prize in Physics for their fundamental work in the field of quantum electronics leading to the construction of oscillators and amplifiers expanding the maser-laser principle.  In 1960, the first functioning laser was operated at Hughes Research Laboratories in Malibu, California.

Engraving is the technique used to engrave or mark an object with lasers, a beam generated and directed through mirrors, lens and into the laser bed. This practice doesn’t use tool bits or any kind of ink; because of this, laser engraving is distinguished from other older engraving techniques.

Unlike most cutting machines, laser engravers don’t expose the user to open, moving parts. This makes using the machine very safe and simple. Laser engraving makes clean edges and fine detail that make any piece stand out from the rest, but it’s also more environmentally friendly than other cutting machines. Lasers are very fast, ensuring that your product will be done on time with the quality you expect.

Lasers can engrave and mark on laser-sensitive polymers, novel metal alloys, and wood. Laser engraving can be used on a number of sources.  It’s the perfect method for promotional items and personalized gifts. You can do something as simple as making a customized picture frame or as complicated as a very detailed photo. Laser etching is very precise, and lasers are scientifically formulated to fuse materials together creating high-resolution and high-contrast marks in the material being used.

Lasers can be directed to precise areas and can be set for thousands of repeats. Speed and the power discharged can be changed to evenly control the depth at which it cuts. The energy focused by the laser changes the surface of the material under the focal point, cutting the material in the way you desire. The laser does not transmit color but it can change the hue of the material being engraved. It can remove material very efficiently because the laser beam is designed to deliver energy which converts a high percentage of light energy into heat, which is hot enough to cut the material.

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