Laser Marking on White ABS Plastic

In the application shown, we are able to achieve black contrast on white ABS plastic with our MOPA fiber laser.

Laser etching on some plastics can be difficult and various levels of contrast can be achieved depending on the type of plastic and the laser parameters utilized during the marking process.  To achieve optimum contrast on ABS plastic, the laser must melt or burn only the surface layer of the plastic.  This type of laser engraving is sometimes referred to as “foaming”.   This is accomplished by lowering the power of the laser, utilizing a low frequency and moving at a high scan speed.  If the laser scanned too slow, used too much power or too high of a frequency, the material would simply melt, as too much heat would be generated by the laser.  In this case it would be difficult to achieve a sharp crisp character with ideal contrast.  In summary, laser marking of plastics is a delicate balance of generating the correct amount of heat on the surface of the material to obtain the best mark.

This mark was made with our 10 Watt Fiber Laser using the settings shown below.

About the Author

Aaron Grimes

Strategic Sales and Global Product Manager

I enhance products and grow sales by combining a passion for technology, multi-channel marketing, sales coaching, and deep technical knowledge. With over 17 years of experience working at TYKMA, I now manage the fastest growing sector of our business, high specification and custom systems.