Laser Marking Systems / Laser Markers
Laser Marking Systems / Laser Markers
KEYENCE offers a diverse collection of laser markers, ranging from Fiber to UV to CO2 systems. Our team also delivers their technical expertise, rapid support response time, same-day shipping and personalized integration so you can enjoy a fully realized traceability solution.
Product Lineup
Features
World’s Smartest Laser Marker
Built-In Vision
Mark the same location on any part, anywhere.
The MD-X Series contains a camera inside the laser marking head which can automatically identify a target’s shape. The laser marker can then adjust for X, Y and theta offsets to ensure the marking position is always correct.
The marking system is even able to distinguish between parts and mark each part accordingly.
Autofocus Anywhere
Mark in-focus on any part, anywhere.
The MD-X laser marker comes standard-equipped with a built-in distance sensor that enables automatic focal corrections. Eliminate manual height adjustments due to part variations in a few simple steps.
Data-Driven Analytics
Automatic fault protection and monitoring from anywhere.
The new MD-X uses predictive maintenance to eliminate problems before they occur. In the unlikely event of a marking defect, the laser marker features a wide range of diagnostic tools to identify the root cause and deploy countermeasures.
MD-U UV laser markers are designed for high-contrast, damage-free marking applications. UV lasers excel at marking plastics, glass, and other heat-sensitive materials. The MD-U's marking head contains an embedded multi-function camera that can autofocus to a part, check-marking quality, and read 2D codes.
Features
Features of 355 nm Wavelength UV Lasers
The absorption rate is incredibly high for a variety of materials, which allows marking and processing to be performed with minimal heat stress.
Clearer, More Detailed
High-Contrast Marking
The MD-U Series is capable of generating greater contrast for more appealing aesthetics and improved readability on 2D codes.
Features
3-Axis Scanner Control
Conventional fiber lasers suffer from sub-optimal scanner controls, which directly affects their marking time and quality. MD-F laser markers optimize their scanner movement, providing better marks in less time for nearly every application.
Black anneal (wobble)
Vivid black marking is possible without bumps or cracks.
Deep-engraving control
Clear visibility is maintained even when a mark is painted over.
Cutting control (scratch control)
High-speed scanners reduce product distortion caused by heat.
Tough and Safe Marking Head
MD-F laser engravers are sealed off from the environment (IP64 rated) and include a built-in power monitor for easy maintenance. These lasers also boast a fanless design and KEYENCE’s smallest marking head, making the MD-F series robust enough to perform in dirty, dusty, wet and oily environments.
Features
3-Axis Beam Control
Three-dimensional control enables marking on non-flat surfaces such as cylinders, slopes, and stepped shapes. It also simplifies product and tooling changeovers. The wide 300 x 300 mm area can efficiently mark and process products simultaneously, helping reduce equipment costs.
Multiple Beam Options
The ML-Z Series lineup includes short-wavelength and thin beam models for unparalleled laser engraving and etching quality. These models not only eliminate unnecessary product damage but also contribute to more refined marking and processing.
Features
Ultra-high definition marking
Traditional lasers struggle to keep their marking area in focus due to F-Theta lenses. MD-T laser etching machines use telecentric lenses to emit their beam straight down across the entire field.
Conventional: Diagonal incident laser beam
MD-T: Perpendicular incidence over the entire area
Unparalleled accuracy and stability
The MD-T’s monocoque design limits warping due to stress and temperature changes. Distortion that occurs during installation is limited to 2 μm or less.
Simply put, laser markers use high-energy light to mark the surface of a part. Laser markers vary by the wavelength of light, and different wavelengths are optimized for marking and processing different materials.
The majority of industrial laser markers are YVO4 lasers, fiber lasers, UV lasers, and CO2 lasers.
Laser markers are used to permanently mark text, logos, barcodes, or 2D codes on parts in all industries. Common marking types include oxidizing, annealing, engraving, etching, discoloration, and processing.
Benefits of Laser Markers
Inkjet and pad-printing systems leave impermanent marks that can be rubbed off or fade away. Laser marking does not wear off or contaminate the product being marked.
Because laser markers use light to directly mark products, there is no need to purchase consumables, clean print heads, or perform other routine maintenance tasks that are necessary with conventional ink and label marking methods. This also helps reduce associated maintenance costs.
Typical systems can only mark in 2 dimensions (X and Y). KEYENCE laser markers have 3-axis beam control, allowing them to mark across a larger area, compensate for part variation, and correct for mounting restrictions with zero physical equipment adjustments.
Laser Marker / Laser Engraver Case Studies
Laser marking in the automotive industry
Learn how laser markers are used with automotive parts. KEYENCE introduces specific laser marking in automotive and other various laser marking with cars.
Laser marking in the electric vehicle industry
Curious how laser markers are used with electric vehicles? KEYENCE introduces specific laser markings for the EV industry and other various laser marking with batteries and ECUs.
Laser marking in the semiconductor industry
Learn about the various ways laser marking has improved electronic components. KEYENCE will also explain electronic parts demand accurate marks with damage-free results.
Laser marking in the medical industry
Curious how laser markers are used in the medical industry, especially with medical device laser marking? KEYENCE introduces specific laser markings for the medical industry and other medical instruments.
Laser marking in the food / pharmaceutical industry
How are laser markers being used in the food and pharmaceutical industries? This section on laser engravers introduces industry-specific applications to help in developing new manufacturing processes.
Laser marking on metal
This section introduces metal laser marking using illustrations and applications for creating dark metal laser markings, white metal laser markings, deep laser engravings, and metal laser processing.
Laser marking on plastic
This section introduces plastic laser marking using illustrations and applications for creating dark markings on plastic, white markings on plastic, transparent markings on plastic, and plastic laser processing.
Laser marking on glass
This section introduces glass laser marking using illustrations and applications for creating white laser markings on glass, transparent laser markings on glass, and shallow laser engraving on glass.
Laser marking on ceramic
This section introduces ceramic laser marking using illustrations and applications for creating dark laser markings on zirconia and alumina based ceramic materials.
Laser marking on wood
This section introduces wood laser marking using illustrations and applications for creating high quality laser markings on wood and cardboard materials.
Laser marking on rubber
This section introduces rubber laser marking using illustrations and applications for creating high quality laser markings on a variety of different colored rubber materials.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Marking Systems / Laser Markers
Laser markers work by scanning a focused beam of high-energy light across the surface of a part in the desired pattern. Different contrast, depths, and surface finishes can be achieved depending on the laser wavelength and part material.
Laser marking causes discoloration on the surface of a part, whereas laser engraving actually removes material and "digs in" to a part.
Practically speaking: no. Laser etchers interact directly with the surface of a part, so the only real way to remove a laser mark is to remove the material it's on.
With a variety of different models and wavelengths, KEYENCE laser markers can mark a wide range of materials. These include materials such as metal, plastic, glass, ceramic, wood, and rubber. There are even more materials than listed that can be marked but some have been shown to emit harmful gases. In this event, proper guarding and fume extraction should be used to provide a safe operating environment.
When choosing the correct laser marking system for your business many factors should be taken into consideration. Throughout this process, you should evaluate all laser marking models to determine the proper wavelength, wattage, marking field of view, and safety requirements. Below are the main factors:
・Materials – this will narrow down laser marking models by wavelength.
・Time allowed for marking – with marking time you can determine wattage.
・Marking Style/Setup – whether it is a large logo or a matrix of small text this will determine the marking field of view.
・Integration style – safety is always a priority so inline vs offline solutions will change the safety requirements.
With KEYENCE having a large range of wavelength options to choose from, most materials have the ability when properly tested to be marked or etched. Some that do not properly absorb laser light or produce toxic fumes include Delrin, PVC, Glue Backing, and Foam.
In comparison to a conventional IR laser marking system, a UV laser marking system has a much shorter wavelength, typically 355nm, which gives it many advantages when marking specific materials and applications. UV light is the best option for laser marking objects made of heat-sensitive materials, such as plastics or resins. With the lower wavelength, you receive a higher absorption rate allowing for contrast marking on a wider range of materials as well.
When deep engraving with a laser marking system, any depth can be achieved depending on how much time is required to complete the mark. Depending on the material and level of depth laser marking may not be the most efficient solution.
Laser Marker Applications
Laser marking
Laser marking is a marking method that uses a focused laser beam to alter the surface of a target. This section introduces how laser marking is performed with different materials as well as the different types of laser marking machines and how they are used.
Laser engraving
Laser Engraving is the main laser process used to produce markings onto parts and products. Using a Laser engraving machine, permanent markings can be engraved onto most materials.
Laser etching
Learn about laser etching machines, the materials used and types of laser etching KEYENCE provides to help improve processes.
Laser cutting
Learn about laser cutting—the process that uses laser light to cut a target—through various examples and different ways to use a laser cutting machine.
Laser paint removal
Laser paint removal is a process that uses a laser to peel paint from a target, and surface peeling. The process that peels the film or plating from a target—through various examples.
Laser drilling
Learn how laser drilling can be used to drill holes by irradiating the laser light on a single point. Learn everything you need to know about drilling with a laser.
Laser labeling
This page includes examples of successful processing improvements made possible by replacing labelers with laser markers (such as for substrate history management labels and vehicle nameplates).
The Resources of Laser Markers
Laser etching vs laser engraving: Which to choose?
Want to know the difference between laser etching vs laser engraving? Learn about each laser marking process and which is best for you.
How does laser cleaning work?
Laser cleaning ablates any contaminants of substrate without causing any damage to the underlying material. Not only is it eco-friendly to remove a number of contaminants, but it is also used in other applications.
What materials can be marked with a UV laser machine?
What materials can engrave a UV laser engraving machine? Find out which laser is best for each material you are looking for.
EV laser marking applications
When dealing with Electric Vehicles, here are things you should note before laser marking on electric vehicles (EV) marking application.
Comparison of different types of electric vehicle battery cells
Understand the various types of electric vehicle battery cells and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Learn about the different chemical compositions, sizes, capacities, and lifespans of various EV.
Difference between UV laser and fiber laser engraving machines
Understand the differences between UV laser and fiber laser engraving machines. Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of each type and discover which one is best suited for your project.
How to choose the right laser marker for engraving
Learn more about the basics of laser engraving, including how it works, the materials used, and potential applications. Learn about the process of laser engraving as well.
Fiber vs. CO2 vs. UV: Which laser marker should I choose?
This section uses videos to explain the differences between fiber, CO2, and UV lasers and to introduce marking on and processing of different materials all in an easy-to-understand manner.
Proven laser solutions for UDI compliant stainless steel marking
Understand laser marking solutions for achieving UDI compliance on stainless steel medical devices. We explore the challenges of marking this hard material, the importance of UDI compliance, and how laser marking technology can provide accurate and permanent markings for traceability and patient safety.
Laser marking—Ensuring the safety of medical device applications worldwide
Learn how laser marking is safe with various medical devices and further understand how laser marking technology can provide accurate and permanent markings to help with traceability and prevent counterfeiting, ultimately ensuring patient safety and regulatory compliance.
The best systems for precisely laser marking surgical instruments
Discover the best laser marking systems for surgical instruments in this comprehensive guide. Learn about the benefits of laser marking and explore top laser machines to ensure efficient and accurate surgical instrument traceability.
Laser marking for traceability - An essential tool in the medical industry
Learn how laser marking allows for medical traceability. Discover its benefits for medical devices, instruments, and packaging, and ensure safety and compliance.
UDI labeling for medical devices
Read on to learn basic knowledge of UDI, adoption advantages, and the corresponding marking methods. Identifying medical devices improves safety in the medical field, including in the distribution stage. This operational system was designed to make providing optimal treatment even easier.
Laser marking for 2D codes
Learn about the benefits of 2D codes and laser marking applications with Laser Marking Basics. KEYENCE CORP provides insight on laser principles, types, and marking techniques for maximizing information storage in limited space.
Laser marking vs dot peen marking machines: An overview of two Popular marking technologies
Discover the pros and cons of laser marking vs dot peen marking machines from our experts. Make an informed decision when selecting the factors that will help your business.
Carbon migration laser marking: Everything you need to know
KEYENCE's laser marking technology offers numerous benefits, including high-speed marking, customization, and exceptional quality. Laser marking is a non-contact process, meaning it does not damage the material, which results in clean and accurate markings. Our systems can handle complex shapes and patterns, making it an ideal solution for intricate designs and labeling.
Laser marking on die-cast components: An introduction to the process and materials involved
KEYENCE's laser marking technology and expertise in the field provides a reliable and efficient marking solution for die-cast components. Contact KEYENCE today to learn more about laser marking on die-cast components and how it can benefit your industry.
What Is Laser Texturing & How Is It Used?
Laser texturing is a revolutionary technology that is changing the way manufacturers create textures and patterns on various surfaces. At KEYENCE, we offer advanced laser texturing systems that deliver high-quality and precise textures on a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and ceramics.

KEYENCE has put together a rich collection of practical, knowledge-based information for getting the most out of a laser marker. This website contains actual marking applications and advice on how to choose a laser marker.

This quick guide introduces the basics of metal marking. Learn why different wavelengths matter and discover the various ways laser light interacts with metal parts.

Choosing the right laser marker wavelength is extremely important for plastic marking. Learn what lasers work best for marking, processing, and coloring plastic in this guide.

2D codes have become a near-universal standard for traceability. This must-read document covers everything from code scanning principles, laser installation, predictive maintenance, and more.

2D codes are used to store date codes, lot codes, serial numbers, and more. Users who are considering 2D code marking should read this laser marking guidebook.

Some laser marking applications require integration with multiple devices. KEYENCE provides a total marking solution, from X/Y stages and indexing systems to head traversal systems. Learn more in this brochure.

This booklet covers a wide range of laser processing techniques - such as cutting, drilling, and deep engraving - as well as welding and soldering that are unique to lasers.