Laser Marking on Anodized Aluminum  

Anodized aluminum is used in a variety of applications, from machine nameplate and small signs to promotional items like pens, key rings and business card holders. It is also a common material for many industrial applications such as tool handles, racing parts and control panels.

Using a CO2 laser to mark anodized aluminum or other coated metals, is a very simple process. The process of anodized metal marking creates a bright white contrast with the pigment of the anodizing. Painted metals are processed by the actual removal of the coating to create a contrast. With both, the contrast is typically so good that even machine readable barcodes can be produced. However, CO2 lasers cannot mark uncoated metals without the use of an additive paste.