RKI's, info on laser engraving?

[m-134b]

Just curious here, but how deep can a laser engrave materials? What are the limitations of laser engraving, any safety concerns regarding the types of materials engraved? What about power requirements?

Any info appreciated!

Thanks,
Ken

[bisjoe]

It depends on the kind of tube (CO2, Yag, or Fiber), the amount of power and the material. When I engrave wood for example, on my 45 watt CO2, set at 35% speed/100% power on oak I'll go 1/32", on basswood just over 1/16. You can also make multiple passes to go deeper.

[m-134b]

Just as an example, let's say it's 4140 prehard, and I'm wanting to go .020 deep. I've heard the term Yag laser before, what exactly is Yag?

Thanks,
Ken

[bisjoe]

Sorry I have no experience with that, my 45 watt CO2 doesn't engrave metal.
I do know that one YAG I know of can do 5mm depth on aluminum plates, and 3mm for steel plates.

YAG is a type of material in the laser tube (yttrium-aluminum-garnet), and provides much higher peak power than CO2.