Videojet USA
Login Laser Marking & Laser Coding FAQs
You will find the following information here:
- What is the difference between the various types and powers levels of lasers and how do I know I have what I need?
- What are the variables of my operation you need to know to be able to recommend the correct system?
- What are my interfacing options and how do accomplish that?
- Can it mark stationary or static?
- What is the PM for the system?
- Safety considerations?
- What are the advantages over CIJ?
- Service organization and capability?
What is the difference between the various types and powers levels of lasers and how do I know I have what I need?
| Most coding lasers fall into 3 basic groups; 10 watt (our offering is 3120 10 w), 25-30 watt (3320 30 w) , and 40+ watts (3430 50 w). Most of the systems now sold are steered beam (using x-y axis galvos and providing solid font characters. The power class you require is applications dependence. Power equals speed so the faster the line, the more power that is required. There are other factors also such as substrate and code content (see below). |
What are the variables of my operation you need to know to be able to recommend the correct system?
| Line speed, pitch between products, substrates you intend to mark, code content (amount and field size), environment (hot or cold, wet, dusty) and integration needs. |
What are my interfacing options and how do accomplish that?
You have the option of using a handheld controller, SOI touch screen or a PC (with our Smartgraph software). For connection to PLCs there is a Customer Interface Box that allows an 8 bit/line (256 template) digital input selection.
What is the PM for the system?
Basic PM is minimal and dependent on environment (wet or dusty). Periodically, you will need to change the filters in the extractor and also check and clean the front optics (as needed). Depending on the operating conditions and usage, we would recommend a more detailed PM on a yearly basis.
Safety considerations?
CO2 lasers are considered Class IV and are recommended to be operated in a Class I system. This means that you will need to protect the mark point so that individuals cannot look into the laser or place their hands in front of the output optic. This is normally achieved by placing a Plexiglas (or similar plastic) housing around the output optic and conveyor limiting access. Interlocks are normally included in this basic set-up to stop operation if the housing is not in proper position. This guarding is the responsibility of the buyer and we will be happy to assist in understanding the needs of each particular application.
What are the advantages over CIJ?
Lasers are normally sold to reduce downtime, eliminate consumables (both for cost and environmental reasons), provide a permanent mark, and reduce the PM and associated maintenance associated with in jet coding.
Service organization and capability?
Our Service organization includes 185 field service engineers spread throughout the US and Canada. They are backed up by product specialists, applications engineers, Integration and Special Applications Engineering, Training and other Support groups. The result is the most comprehensive and experienced service and support Team in the industry.
How to buy
To Order in The US
800-843-3610
Videojet Technologies Inc.
1500 Mittel Boulevard
Wood Dale, IL 60191
Outside the US (e.g. Puerto Rico):
+1 630-860-7300
Wordwide Sales
To use our worldwide Sales and Distributor Search tool to find contact information for a local Videojet representative or Marsh distributor in your region or country