After wrapping up our visit with West Michigan Cerakote, we headed west to meet another industry leader: Nevada Cerakote. Known for their elite custom finishes and unmatched attention to detail, they’ve taken laser engraving and Cerakote laser imaging to a whole new level using TYKMA Electrox laser engraving machines.
Cerakote Laser Imaging at Scale with the Atlas™
The primary focus of our visit was engraving the Virtus™ laser control panel, a giveaway project for our community. These panels were coated at West Michigan Cerakote, then shipped to Nevada Cerakote, where they used their TYKMA Electrox Atlas™ laser engraving machine to laser image a unique pattern.
The Atlas is built for large-format engraving and delivers unmatched precision. Key features include:
- 48″L x 24″W XY marking field
- Programmable Z-axis for variable-height parts
- Optional rotary accessory for cylindrical engraving
- Large breadboard tooling plate and lowered base for ergonomic loading
- Pneumatic front safety door
- Integrated system control PC with slide-out monitor and keyboard drawer
With this setup, Nevada Cerakote easily handled the dual-layer Cerakote panel. The Atlas ablated the top color to reveal the blue undercoat and used high-contrast settings to engrave crisp white graphics into the gray top layer. The word “Virtus” was engraved at the center, creating a unique, one-of-a-kind giveaway piece.
This was our first time working with Cerakote’s latest F-Series coatings, and the results look fantastic. This panel is for the Virtus Platinum Laser Giveaway prize, an example of what is possible with our lasers and cerakote.
A Surprise Gift: The Minilase LBL
Upon arrival, Steve Phillips from our team surprised Russ with a custom Minilase LBL laser engraver, housed in a Pelican case and co-branded with Nevada Cerakote’s logo. It was a gesture of appreciation for their ongoing partnership, and a practical one too. This compact machine is ideal for the smaller parts Russ frequently engraves. He was thrilled to receive it and already has plans to put it to work.
Compact Power, Endless Possibilities
Learn more about the Minilase LBL and see how this portable laser engraving machine fits big performance into a small footprint.
Scaling Capabilities with the Zetalase XL UV Laser
In addition to the Atlas, Nevada Cerakote also runs a Zetalase XL UV laser engraver, a powerhouse for marking delicate and high-detail materials. This system has opened the door to new revenue streams for the shop, including:
- Glassware engraving
- Laser stippling on polymer pistol frames, including glass-filled nylon
- Cold marking on sensitive materials
The UV laser’s precision and material flexibility make it a powerful asset for a shop looking to diversify.
Inside the Shop: From Blasting to Branding
Russ gave us a full behind-the-scenes tour of their facility. During our day on-site, we captured footage of their crew prepping parts, from sandblasting and coating to laser marking serial numbers, logos, and complex patterns. Projects included everything from rifle parts and pistol frames, to sprockets, knives, and other components.
It’s clear that Russ enjoys creative applications with their laser imaging capabilities.
Why Russ Trusts TYKMA Electrox
In his interview, Russ speaks candidly about his journey — including the struggles he faced with low-cost, unreliable lasers from overseas. Since upgrading to TYKMA Electrox machines, he’s seen major improvements in uptime, engraving quality, and customer satisfaction.
He emphasized that support and service are just as important as the hardware. Having a team that’s responsive and knowledgeable has made a huge difference for his operation. Russ even shared plans to upgrade his current Class 4 system with a Virtus Class 4 laser and expand with a CO2 laser engraving machine from TYKMA Electrox.
What Russ had to Say about TYKMA Electrox
“For over a decade, we’ve aimed to innovate in our industry by combining lasers and Cerakote for advanced production designs. Our ideas outpaced affordable technology until we discovered Tykma Electrox. We connected with Tykma Electrox years before purchasing our first machine, meeting at trade shows and through industry conversations. Although we initially worked with another brand, visiting the Tykma factory convinced us we needed to partner with them. The Atlas, Zetalase XL UV, LBL and other systems provided exactly what we needed to move to the next level of efficiency and technology. Their quality, support, innovative designs, and outstanding team set them apart. Our collaboration with Tykma has played a significant role in our success. With every challenge, the Tykma Electrox team provided prompt solutions and insight that empowered our growth. As our capabilities evolve, we find ourselves setting new standards in both aesthetics and performance, inspiring others in the industry to rethink what’s possible.”
Thank you, Tykma.
Russ Bacon
Nevada Cerakote / NV Coatings & Laser
From Cerakote to Laser Engravings
Nevada Cerakote is a great example of how a laser engraver and creativity can improve your business. From expanding service capabilities to taking on non-cerakote orders, a laser engraver opens up endless possibilities. Check out Nevada Cerakote’s Instagram page for more examples of the work they are doing with their laser engravers.
Their use of the Atlas and Zetalase XL UV laser engraving machines, plus the addition of the Minilase LBL, proves how versatile and scalable the right laser technology can be.
If you’re serious about precision, reliability, and creative potential, TYKMA Electrox machines are built to perform. Our laser applications engineers are always available for assistance on laser process settings.
Why Partner with TYKMA Electrox?
Laser systems are only as valuable as the support behind them. Downtime from technical issues or incorrect settings can cost a business time and money. That’s why Nevada Cerakote, and countless other companies, trust TYKMA Electrox.
We provide:
- Fast, expert-level support for laser hardware and software
- Assistance with Cerakote laser imaging parameters and material processing
- Cerakote Laser Imaging Training through our partnership with Cerakote
- Reliable machines built with premium components
- Customized solutions to meet your production needs
All of our systems are proudly designed, machined, and assembled in Chillicothe, Ohio. With decades of experience in laser marking and engraving solutions, we’re here to support your success.
Learn More About the Atlas Laser Systems
If you’re exploring ways to improve part traceability, or provide custom laser etching services, the Atlas laser engraving system is a great starting point. Our laser experts are always at hand if you need laser settings support, training, and more.
Contact Our Team today to learn more about our laser marking and engraving solutions for your industry.
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