Laser Marking with Galvo Scanner

What is Laser Marking and Why It Matters

Laser marking is a highly precise, non-contact technique for creating permanent marks on a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. It has become an essential part of modern manufacturing, providing reliable solutions for product identification, traceability, and customization.

At the core of laser marking systems is the galvo scanner—a high-speed beam steering device that directs the laser beam with exceptional accuracy and flexibility. By precisely controlling the laser spot’s position and movement in real time, galvo scanners enable sharp, consistent markings on complex shapes at industrial production speeds.

Whether it’s serial numbers on automotive parts, logos on consumer goods, or functional marks on electronic components, laser marking powered by galvo scanner technology combines speed, precision, and durability in a way that traditional methods cannot match.

How Laser Marking Works

Laser marking is based on localized energy delivery. A focused laser beam heats the material surface precisely, causing controlled changes without physical contact or mechanical stress.

The process starts with a laser source—commonly fiber, CO₂, or UV lasers depending on the application and material. The laser beam is directed by a galvo scanner system, which uses fast-moving mirrors to steer the beam along programmed paths across the workpiece surface.

Laser marking with galvo scanner

Galvo scanners not only make this possible but also highly efficient. Compared to mechanical systems, galvo-driven beam control enables rapid repositioning, often completing complex marking patterns within seconds. This efficiency makes laser marking ideal for automated production lines where both speed and repeatability are crucial.

Moreover, manufacturers can precisely control the mark’s depth, color, and shape. For instance, a short, high-frequency pulse can induce shallow surface discoloration (annealing), while higher power with slower pulses can engrave deeper structures.

Laser Marking Applications

Laser marking finds extensive use in modern industrial manufacturing, spanning metal parts to consumer goods. From serial numbers on automotive engines and QR codes on battery cases to brand logos on electronic device housings, laser marking provides clear, durable, and eco-friendly solutions.

Auto parts laser marking

With galvo scanner systems, laser beams can rapidly and accurately mark metals, plastics, ceramics, and more—meeting industry needs for traceability, functional labeling, and customization in mass production. Especially in automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical devices, and energy sectors, laser marking has become indispensable for product tracking and brand enhancement.

Advantages of Laser Marking with Galvo Scanners

Galvanometer scanners enable microsecond-level beam movement, greatly boosting marking throughput compared to mechanical XY stages, ideal for high-volume manufacturing. They offer micron-level positioning accuracy and real-time feedback, ensuring consistent mark quality across thousands of parts.

Galvo-based systems are compatible with metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites, adjusting laser parameters to optimize marking without substrate damage. The non-contact nature of laser marking minimizes wear and reduces maintenance costs, while seamless integration with robots, vision systems, and MES enables fully automated workflows.

Additionally, laser marking is an environmentally friendly process, eliminating inks, solvents, and abrasives, producing clean marks with minimal waste.

Laser marking is rapidly evolving from a basic identification method into a cornerstone of smart, automated, and green manufacturing. Leveraging high-speed galvo scanners, it delivers precise, durable, and contact-free marking solutions across industries like automotive, electronics, batteries, and medical devices.

As production demands faster throughput and enhanced traceability, laser marking is increasingly integrated with robotics, vision systems, and real-time data monitoring, aligning perfectly with the future of intelligent and sustainable manufacturing.

FAQ — Laser Marking with Galvo Scanner Systems

1: What is the advantage of using a galvo scanner for laser marking?

Galvo scanners offer ultra-fast beam positioning with micron-level precision, allowing complex marking patterns to be completed in seconds. Compared to mechanical motion systems, they provide higher speed, better repeatability, and lower maintenance.

2: Do your galvo scanners support 3D or curved surface marking?

Yes. Our 3-axis galvo scanner solutions support dynamic focusing, allowing precise laser marking on curved and irregular surfaces, suitable for automotive parts, medical devices, and batteries.

3: Can I customize the galvo scanner solutions according to my production needs?

Yes, we offer customized galvo scanner solutions tailored to your specific marking area, working distance, and field size requirements. Our team can help you select the right configuration based on your materials and production setup.