Fiber Laser vs CO2 Laser Engraver
What's the difference between CO2 and Fiber Laser Engravers?
Before you start the next masterpiece of metal laser engraving, you’ll need to decide whether to use a CO2 Laser Engraver vs Fiber Laser. As you choose the best type of laser for metal engraving, consider which materials you plan to work with, the size of your metal laser engraving projects, and the laser power needed to achieve your desired finish.
Can you use a CO2 laser for metal engraving?
CO2 Laser Engravers are often used for applications such as wood, glass, leather, and acrylic, but if you apply a special laser bonding agent, you can mark metals with a CO2 laser engraver. This marking agent is used to treat the metal’s finish prior to engraving - like a paint primer for metal surfaces.
With a simple laser bond spray, you can turn your CO2 laser into a stainless steel laser engraving machine! Coated metals such as painted brass and anodized aluminum do not require this treatment. One advantage of the CO2 Laser for metal engraving is that the mark is left on top of the metal, maintaining the final integrity of your product. The CO2 Laser Engraver is more affordable, but fiber lasers are known for durability and low-maintenance.
A disadvantage of using a CO2 laser for engraving metal is the extra step of coating the metal for laser engraving. It is also less efficient, as the laser must be run at low-speed and high-power settings to successfully utilize the laser marking agent.
What is the best laser for engraving metal?
Fiber Lasers are often considered the best laser for engraving metals such as aluminum, brass, copper, nickel, and stainless steel. Fiber laser machines are also recommended for engraving engineered plastics or thermoplastics such as ABS, PEEK, and polycarbonates.
The first advantage of choosing this machine is superior power - engraving on metal doesn’t require pre-treatment, as the fiber laser wavelength better penetrates bare metals and hard plastics. The only disadvantage of the Fiber Laser for metal engraving is that it is limited to only metals and hard plastics. Applications such as wood, glass, leather, and acrylic are often too transparent for the Fiber laser's wavelength - it can strike through the material and hit the engraving table below.
