Marking Metals with Laser: Processes, Applications and Laser Types

Learn how CO₂ and fibre lasers create permanent, high-contrast marks on metals and industrial plastics. Explore serial numbers, barcodes, QR codes, logos, compatible materials and the right laser for your application.

Laser marking provides a fast, accurate and permanent way to add identification and traceability information to metal and industrial plastic components.

Different laser sources are suited to different materials and applications. CO₂ lasers can mark coated metals and anodised aluminium, while untreated metals such as stainless steel generally require a specialist laser marking compound. Fibre lasers can mark metals and many industrial plastics directly, without coatings or pre-treatment.

By adjusting the laser’s focus, speed, power and frequency, manufacturers can produce a range of permanent marks, including serial numbers, barcodes, QR codes, logos, text and technical information.

Fibre laser systems can mark materials including stainless steel, aluminium, tool steel, brass and titanium. They are suitable for applications ranging from individual product labels to batches of engineered components requiring consistent, precise identification.

Read our guide to learn more about CO₂ and fibre laser marking, compatible materials and how to select the right laser technology for your application.

Visitors to Advanced Engineering can also see the Epilog Fusion Galvo G100 in action on the CSI Manufacturing stand. Bring along your own component or sample and speak to our team about how it could be marked.