When a new laser marking system shows up on a production floor, the goal isn’t just to turn it on. It’s to get the team confident, capable, and actually producing parts as fast as possible.
That’s exactly what happened during TYKMA Electrox’s installation and training at Canik USA in West Palm Beach, Florida. Over the course of two days, their engineering team went from uncrating the system to running real firearm laser marking, laser imaging, and deep engraving applications on their own.
Day 1: Getting the System Ready
The first morning started with the fundamentals.
Before any training began, the machine went through initial startup and testing. One of TYKMA’s many field service technicians was onsite and handled the initial setup. He checked alignment, ran test patterns, and made sure everything was dialed in mechanically and optically.
The TYKMA Electrox Zetalase™ XL MOPA fiber laser ships fully assembled and runs off a 120V outlet and requires an airline. A regulator that is preinstalled on the Zetalase XL controls the air pressure for the automatic pneumatic door design. A small feature often overlooked but crucial for future proofing customers’ investment and allowing for robot tending if they chose. Day one, the pneumatic door offers better ergonomics and better operator experience.
Once the system passed all checks, it was ready for training.
First Laser Marks: Learning the Fundamentals
Shawn led the startup and fundamentals training, starting simple.
Before you mark anything, the focal height must be correct. That means setting the exact distance from the laser lens to the part surface. Luckily, the Zetalase XL comes with a programmable Z-Axis and industry leading (patent pending) Precision Max™ calibration process.
From there, he walked the team through:
- Creating a basic text object
- Using the red dot pointer for alignment and programmable Z functionality
- Running their first laser marking
It’s straightforward, but it builds the foundation for everything else. Within a short time, the team understood how to position parts under the laser and execute marks with confidence.
Moving Into Real Applications: Laser Imaging Firearms
This is where things got interesting.
Canik had a custom fixture from Cerakote designed specifically for handgun positioning. Interesting fact, the Cerakote fixtures are compatible across all the TYKMA Electrox product lines! To learn more, contact TYKMA or Cerakote on how you can get fixtures for your system.
TYKMA came prepared with a laser marking file that included the outline of the firearm, giving the team a visual guide for alignment and graphic placement. We appreciate our collaboration with Cerakote to support Canik in the laser imaging processes. Customers like Canik get to see firsthand what 8+ years of strategic partnership means and how all parties can work together to deliver results.
Instead of using the outer outline of the handgun to position the part, Steve Phillips showed them how to use a small physical feature on the gun as a reference point. In this case, the magazine release.
By isolating that feature in the file and using the red dot pointer, they were able to line everything up precisely. It’s a simple method, but it ensures repeatability across every part that goes into the fixture.
Once aligned, they ran their first laser imaging process on a Cerakote-coated handgun.
The reaction was immediate. You could feel it in the room. This wasn’t a test coupon or a demo piece. It was their product, marked in their facility, on day one!
Dialing in Color: The Parameter Matrix
After the first successful mark, Steve introduced something that speeds everything up: a parameter matrix. This same method is also performed by Cerakote in their R&D lab. New “laser optimized” colors and series from Cerakote are tested and proven on the same laser type. Canik, among others, understands the importance of delivering repeatable results and by using the same lasers, this can be achieved.
Simply put, Laser Imaging is an artform and customers love the results. However, its primary function is a protective coating. Utilizing the same laser in Cerakote’s R&D lab helps ensure the imaging process isn’t impacting that main goal.
Instead of guessing settings, the matrix gives operators a structured way to see how different parameters affect the outcome. It becomes a reference they can use to quickly achieve specific colors and finishes when laser imaging Cerakote.
From there, Canik started experimenting.
They ran a multi-camo pattern. Then pushed into darker, higher-contrast marking by adjusting parameters and running multiple passes. Each iteration built confidence and showed how flexible the system really is.
Beyond Imaging: Ablation and Texture Work
At this point, the team started thinking beyond just marking.
One question came up: can we remove Cerakote in specific areas instead of masking parts?
The answer is yes. Cerakote layer laser ablation makes that possible.
Instead of stenciling, the laser selectively removes the coating, exposing the material underneath. It’s faster, cleaner, and completely digital. For certain product lines, that alone can change how parts are processed.
Then the conversation shifted again, this time toward grip textures.
Steve demonstrated how the laser can be used for deep engraving, effectively replacing manual stippling. By adjusting power and parameters, the system can cut patterns into the surface or replicate textures traditionally done by hand.
They also explored more detailed engraving styles, including decorative patterns that could be applied before Cerakote to create layered, high-end finishes.
At this point, it wasn’t just about marking anymore. It was about expanding what their products could look like.
Day 2: Hands Off, Let Them Run
The second day is where training proves itself.
Instead of being led step-by-step, the Canik team took control of the system. They set up files, aligned parts, and ran marking processes themselves while TYKMA stayed nearby to answer questions and guide when needed.
This is where you see if the training worked.
It did.
By the end of the second day, they weren’t just familiar with the system. They were comfortable using it in a way that translates directly to production.
Built for Production, Not Just Demo
The system installed at Canik isn’t just a standalone engraver. It’s built for real throughput.
The Zetalase XL includes features like an automatic door, which enables what TYKMA calls Auto Mode. The door opens and closes as parts are processed, reducing the number of manual steps required from the operator.
It’s a small shift, but it adds up quickly in production environments where consistency and cycle time matter.
Paired with the Precision Max MFSS 12″ x 12″ continuous processing and 3D scanhead, the system maintains high accuracy across a large marking field. Combined with the Y-axis fixture stage, it gives Canik the flexibility to run single parts or scale into higher-volume workflows.
What This Really Shows
This installation wasn’t about showing what a laser can do in theory.
It showed what a team can do with the right system, the right training, and the right support behind it.
In two days, Canik USA went from initial setup to running:
- Laser marking
- Cerakote laser imaging
- Deep engraving
- Laser ablation
That’s the difference between buying a machine and actually putting one into production.
Want to See What This Looks Like in Your Process?
If you’re working in the defense industry or manufacturing environment and looking into laser marking, laser engraving, or cerakote laser imaging, the process matters just as much as the machine.
TYKMA Electrox provides full installation, hands-on training, and ongoing support to make sure you’re not left figuring it out on your own.
Contact TYKMA Electrox today to learn how systems like the Zetalase XL can fit into your workflow. Check out testimonials from our customers and what they had to say about their experience working with TYKMA Electrox!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to install and train on a laser marking system?
Most installations can be completed in 1–2 days, depending on system configuration and applications.
At Canik USA, the team went from initial startup to independently running parts in two days, including laser marking, laser imaging, and deep engraving processes.
What is required before starting a laser marking system for the first time?
Before operation, the system needs to be:
- Verified for alignment after shipping
- Supplied with proper air (if using an automatic door system)
- Set to the correct focal height for the part
These steps ensure consistent laser marking and engraving results from the start.
How do you align parts for laser marking firearms?
Alignment is typically done using:
- A red dot pointer for visual positioning
- A known feature on the part (such as a magazine release or edge)
- A fixture or template file that outlines the part geometry
- Vision part alignment and or live viewing can be added to certain TYKMA product lines.
This method ensures repeatable positioning for laser marking and laser imaging applications.
What is laser imaging on Cerakote?
Laser imaging is the process of using a MOPA fiber laser to create contrast and color changes on Cerakote coatings.
By adjusting laser parameters, manufacturers can:
- Produce different colors
- Create detailed patterns and graphics
- Maintain precision without inks or consumables
How do you determine the right laser settings for Cerakote?
A laser parameter matrix is commonly used.
This matrix tests different combinations of:
- Power
- Speed
- Frequency
- Waveform
Operators can reference the results to quickly select the right settings for a desired color. Cerakote’s Laser Imaging Training course accelerates this process, giving TYKMA Electrox customers the ability to replicate consistent results from training directly into production.
Can a laser remove Cerakote instead of marking it?
Yes. This process is called Cerakote layer laser ablation.
Instead of adding contrast, the laser removes the coating in specific areas to expose the material underneath. This eliminates the need for masking or stenciling.
Can laser engraving replace manual stippling on firearm grips?
Yes. With the right settings and graphics, a laser can:
- Replicate traditional stippling patterns
- Create custom textures
- Maintain consistent results across parts
This makes it a scalable alternative to manual processes.
What is deep engraving and how is it used in firearms?
Deep engraving firearms uses higher power and multiple passes to cut into the material.
It can be used for:
- Grip textures
- Decorative patterns
- Pre-coating surface preparation
- ATF/NFA Compliance
- And so much more!
It is commonly used in both functional and aesthetic firearm applications.
What is Auto Mode on a TYKMA laser marking system?
Auto Mode automates part processing by:
- Opening and closing the machine door automatically
- Reducing operator interaction
- Improving production flow for repeat jobs
Auto Mode is also critical for easy plug and play automation. Zetalase XL has the I/O for customers to add robots or even conveyors to the systems with the removable side panels.
This is useful for higher-volume laser marking workflows.
Do you need prior experience to operate a laser marking system?
No.
With proper installation and training, operators can learn to:
- Align parts
- Set focal height
- Run marking programs and adjust parameters
In this case, the Canik team was able to operate the system confidently within two days.
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