Production & Manufacturing

Automotive Laser Marking

The advantages of using laser technology in automotive production are plentiful. From initial design to the final assembly of the vehicle, laser technology can be employed throughout the entire automotive production process. Whether it’s textile cutting for seatbelts or marking parts for traceability, let’s find out how lasers are used in the automotive industry today…

Mark, Cut, Engrave

Versatile & Reliable

Endlessly versatile, laser systems can cut, mark, etch and/or engrave a range of materials, making it an invaluable technology for a cutting-edge industry. From plastics, metals and glass to textiles and rubber, the automotive sector utilises a plethora of materials during production, all of which can be modified by laser technology.

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Automotive Laser Marking

Lasers are used on many car parts

From tracking critical components through traceability to marking plastic parts for dashboard panels, let’s take a look at how the automotive sector is utilising laser technology today…

Technology First

Automotive Laser Marking

In today’s world, the manufacturing of vehicles is largely automatic. Robots have been routinely used in the industry for many years and now manufacturers are utilising laser systems in line with this technology to further streamline the process. This automated way of manufacturing means it’s imperative that the laser machines can be easily integrated into production lines.

An automotive laser marking machine is easy to integrate into manufacturing lines thanks to the relatively small size of the systems. Furthermore, the beam deflection unit (sometimes known as the scan head) can be placed several hundred millimetres away from the product being marked. Thanks to it being a non-contact method of marking, there’s no need for parts to be clamped down before marking, avoiding unnecessary secondary damage, and further increasing productivity and efficiency.

Production

Traceability Marking

The automotive industry is heavily reliant on traceability for success. In an industry where a large number of components come from different suppliers, it’s imperative that every part can be traced back to the manufacturer to avoid costly scrap material. Laser technology is ideal for traceability marking because it is permanent and difficult to counterfeit. It can produce a wide variety of graphic formats, from logos and barcodes to simple text and it has no consumables, so running costs are low as is the requirement for maintenance.

legalities

Vehicle Identification Number

Every vehicle registered in the UK must have a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This 17-character VIN is usually stamped in the chassis of the vehicle and serves as the car’s unique identity code before it even leaves the production line. Laser marking is a consistent and reliable way to brand vehicles with a VIN, ensuring legibility for the lifetime of the vehicle.

Automotive Sector

Suitable Machines

Whether it’s marking Vehicle Identification Numbers or data matrix codes, we have the right laser machine to meet your automotive sector needs. From steel ball bearings to plastic housing, when it comes to the laser engraving of automotive parts, our machines are designed to do it all.

Meta-C 3D • Fiber Laser Engraving Machine

The Meta-C Fiber Laser Engraver is the best solution for laser marking and engraving stainless steel, plastics, aluminium, and much more. It guarantees you accurate, durable and high-contrast markings on metals and plastics to a standard other machines just cannot do. •  Built for 24/7 industrial use over decades •  Perfect for traceability, QR codes, barcodes, and logos •  Ultra-precise engraving for incredible detail and accuracy

Power: 30w, 60w, 80w, 200w
Ideal for: Traceability, Serialisation, Part Marking, QR Codes, Logos
Materials: Steel, Aluminium, Titanium, Brass, ABS Plastic

Meta-C 3D • UV Laser Marking Machine

The Meta-C UV laser engraver is the best laser for marking glass, plastics, and much more. It uses UV technology to create an amazing finish across glass surfaces without cracking or damaging the glass, and can mark plastics & silicone with pristine clarity. •  Ultra-high detail on any material •  World-leading glass marking that far surpasses CO2 etching •  Leaves surface marks with no damage or ablation

Power (W): 5, 10, 15
Ideal for: PCBs, Electronics, Components, Branding, and much more
Materials: Glass, Plastics, Wood - Almost Everything!

Meta-C 3D • CO2 Laser Etching Machine

•  Precise 3D beam delivery & powerful Galvo CO2 laser source
•  Designed for high speed etching and engraving
•  Made for millions of operations – backed by a 10 year warranty

Power (W): 60, 80, 100
Worktable (mm): 350 x 350
Materials: Wood, Some Plastics, Textiles

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