TYKMA Electrox recently visited West Michigan Cerakote & Laser (WMC) in Grand Rapids, Michigan to collaborate on a unique project that showcases the synergy between Cerakote coatings and TYKMA’s laser engraving technology. From coating and curing to laser imaging a knife, our visit was full of action.
Main Video Montage: Behind the Scenes with WMC
Spenser, the owner of WMC, walked us through their facility, introducing us to the team and showing us what projects they are working on. WMC specializes in Cerakote coatings and laser marking using their Virtus laser engraving system from TYKMA Electrox. Their process combines craftsmanship with digital graphics, allowing them to create unique, durable laser engravings on everything from custom components to golf clubs.
Laser Imaging Virtus Panels for a Special Edition Giveaway
For our Virtus Laser Giveaway, TYKMA Electrox shipped the laser controller panels to WMC for a dual-layer Cerakote application. Spenser and his team applied Bolt Blue (F-121) over Storm Gray (F-109), achieving a rich, multi-layered application which is perfect for laser imaging.
Once coated and cured, the panels were shipped to Nevada Cerakote, another TYKMA customer equipped with our ATLAS laser engraving system. The Atlas has the perfect marking area for processing large parts, perfect for laser marking the custom design we had in mind.
View Virtus Laser Sweepstakes!
Hear from Spenser at WMC
Hear from Spenser as he shares how a laser from TYKMA Electrox has added value to WMC’s service capabilities. By integrating the Virtus laser engraving system into their workflow, WMC can provide new levels of customization that go far beyond what traditional stencils can achieve.
Their in-house laser imaging and deep engraving capabilities now support a wider range of custom requests, from detailed branding and part serialization to intricate artwork on metal and Cerakote-coated components. The Virtus laser engraving system gives them the speed, precision, and repeatability needed for demanding industrial laser engraving requests.
What Spenser Has to Say About TYKMA Electrox
“West Michigan Cerakote has had an outstanding experience working with Tykma, and we couldn’t be more impressed with the quality of their laser systems. Their equipment has consistently delivered precision, reliability, and efficiency, which has elevated the standard of our work. Beyond the product itself, the relationship has been just as valuable. Steve and Adam have been an absolute pleasure to work with. Their professionalism, responsiveness, and genuine commitment to our success makes Tykma a trusted partner we’re proud to recommend.”
Spenser Sydow, Owner of West Michigan Cerakote & Laser
Real-World Results: Knife Laser Imaging and Parameter Tuning
During our visit, Steve Phillips from TYKMA Electrox fine-tuned laser parameters on WMC’s Virtus system to mark a camouflage pattern on a Cerakote-coated knife. The results highlighted the precision and control achievable with our private label MOPA fiber laser engraving technology, especially on coated surfaces like Cerakote.
Advancing Laser Imaging Through Collaboration with Cerakote
Our ongoing partnership with Cerakote has played a critical role in the advancement of laser imaging techniques. Together, we’ve enhanced the ability to produce vibrant, high-contrast color tones through precise laser marking, all while maintaining the durability and protective properties of Cerakote’s ceramic coatings.
To achieve this, Cerakote adjusted select coating formulas to improve laser reactivity, allowing for cleaner ablation and more consistent visual results. TYKMA Electrox’s Cerakote-Certified laser sources are the best lasers for marking and ablating multi-layer Cerakote coatings with optimal clarity and precision.
Not all lasers are created equal. Our private-label MOPA fiber laser systems have been fine-tuned by our engineering team to deliver best-in-class results across a wide range of laser engraving applications. Whether you’re marking logos, multi-layer designs, or achieving complex textures, TYKMA Electrox lasers provide unmatched control and repeatability.
In Action: Cerakote Spraying at WMC
This video shows WMC coating the Virtus giveaway laser controller panels with Cerakote F-Series before the laser imaging process.
The Club Lab: Custom Golf Clubs and Deep Engraving
One of WMC’s standout ventures is The Club Lab, a sub-brand dedicated to restoring and customizing golf clubs. Their deep laser engraving capability allows them to carve custom designs on putters and golf drivers. After laser engraving, the clubs are coated in Cerakote and detailed with color-fill techniques to make the design pop.
This fusion of laser engraving and Cerakote offers a durable, eye-catching result that customers love. Check out The Club Lab on Instagram to see all the unique designs they can engrave with their TYKMA Electrox laser engraver.
Expanding Possibilities with In-House Laser Engraving
By bringing a Virtus laser engraving system in-house, WMC has unlocked a broad range of new services. From logo branding and part numbering to barcoding and personalization, laser systems provide unmatched flexibility.
Whether you’re engraving steel knives, customizing tumblers, marking carbide tools, or engraving promotional items, our laser marking systems deliver the repeatability and detail that modern manufacturers demand.
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 WMC, and countless other companies, trust TYKMA Electrox.
We provide:
- Fast, expert-level support for laser hardware and software
- Assistance with laser imaging parameters and material processing
- 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 Virtus Laser Systems
If you’re exploring ways to improve part traceability, or provide custom laser etching services, the Virtus 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! If your business would like to be featured in our customer spotlight series, reach out to your sales representative today to set up a visit!
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