Marking Solutions: Laser vs Dot Peen

Presented by: Nichol Industries.

We often receive enquiries for laser marking where dot peen is a better solution.

So, what’s the difference and when is one better than the other.

“Dot peen” and “laser” refer to two different technologies used for marking or engraving surfaces, and each has its own set of advantages and limitations. Let’s compare dot peen and laser marking in terms of key characteristics:

Technology:

Dot Peen: Dot peen marking, also known as dot marking or pin marking, involves using a stylus or pin to create a series of dots on the material’s surface. The dots form alphanumeric characters, logos, and 2D codes.

Laser: Laser marking utilises a laser beam to apply intense heat to the surface removing material or change its colour to create high-contrast markings. Different types of lasers, such as fibre, CO2, or Nd lasers, are used depending on the material and application.

Marking Speed:

Dot Peen: Generally, dot peen marking can be slower compared to laser marking, especially for detailed or intricate designs.

Laser: Laser marking is often faster, especially for applications where high-speed and precision are crucial.

Marking Depth:

Dot Peen: Dot peen creates indentations on the material’s surface, resulting in a noticeable depth. The depth depends on factors like material hardness, stylus size and angle and stylus force. Dot peen can be seen after painting, powder coating and galvanising.

Laser: Laser marking can be either surface marking (colour change without material removal) or engraving (material removal), providing some flexibility in marking depth.

Material Compatibility:

Dot Peen: Suitable for a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and composites. However, harder materials may require higher stylus force.

Laser: Highly versatile and can mark various materials, including metals, plastics, glass, ceramics, and organic materials. The choice of laser type depends on the material properties.

Precision and Detail:

Dot Peen: Capable of achieving high precision but may have limitations in intricate designs or small characters.

Laser: Provides excellent precision, making it suitable for detailed markings, small characters, and complex graphics.

Maintenance:

Dot Peen: Generally, dot peen systems have fewer components and may require less maintenance. The stylus may need periodic replacement.

Laser: Laser systems may require more maintenance, including the periodic replacement of components such as laser tubes or optics.

Noise and Vibration:

Dot Peen: Produces some noise and vibration, which may be a consideration in certain applications. Clamping of the component is important.

Laser: Typically, quieter and generates minimal vibration, making it suitable for applications where noise is a concern. Fixturing is for location only.

Cost:

Dot Peen: Initial equipment costs for dot peen systems are often lower compared to laser systems.

Laser: Higher initial equipment costs but may offer cost advantages in terms of speed and versatility for certain applications.

Safety:

Dot Peen: In most applications dot peen machines do not require guarding. The stylus is set so fingers cannot reach under the stylus eliminating most risk.

Laser: Contact with a laser beam can cause major harm. The beam will severely burn the skin. Contact with eyes will cause blindness. This is particularly important with fibre and Nd lasers. Most safety standards mandate that the laser should be fully enclosed during operation.

Ultimately, the choice between dot peen and laser marking depends on a number of factors related to the specific application. Material, marking speed, data to be marked and the working environment all need to be considered. Budget will also be considered. Both technologies have their strengths and are widely used across various industries.

Generally, laser is used in clean environments where high quality fast marking is required, and depth is not important. Dot Peen is used in less clean environments where depth is important and high speed is not required.