Shot Blast Resistant Laser Marking: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Definition and Functionality

To create a shot blast resistant 2D code, you need to engrave the code deep into the material, preferably with enough precision that the cells of the 2D matrix are smaller than the average diameter of the shot blast particles. To achieve this the laser uses precision, power, and multiple repetitions to remove layer after layer of the material resulting in a deep engrave. When done correctly, the shot blast process will impact the 2D code, but the code will keep its structure and uniformity to continue to be readable.

When conducting blast resistant laser marking, we recommend our 3-Axis Hybrid Laser Marker MD-X Series because of its high power, high quality, depth of focus, and long service life.

The MD-X is optimized with KEYENCE’s 3-axis control and built-in autofocus. The 3-axis control laser uses a uniform line width across an entire target, which allows for the engraving to be consistent throughout the mark, a necessity for 2D codes. This 3-Axis can also be used for "deep dig," a feature where the laser marker will stay focused on the material even while the depth of the mark is changing. Furthermore, the built-in autofocus centers the laser to the focal point even if the target is misplaced. Together, Autofocus and 3-axis control ensure marking consistency. Consistency is especially crucial for 2D codes. Without it, it can lead to incorrect readings and lower readability grades.

Engraving a 2D code is generated with the same machine, so there are no extra payments to complete the whole project. Additionally, laser markers are skilled at marking quick and repeated tasks down an assembly line. The efficiency of shot blast resistant laser marking translates into low cost because fewer materials, manpower, and adjustments need to be made. Lastly, laser markers have a long service life, so there is no need for frequent, costly upgrades.

Not only do laser markers have longevity, but the marks do too. 2D codes by laser markers are permanent and are difficult to tarnish. But, if there is any limited tarnishing, the 2D code can stay readable because of the Reed-Solomon code that corrects errors.

Shot blasting is used in the automotive industry for manufacturing new cars and their parts and reconditioning old cars. Small car parts use molds that leave particles on the final product, so shot blasting removes all remnants. In turn, lighter metals are used, and the industry is able to increase the number of fuel-efficient cars. Moreover, shot blasting prepares new or old cars for a paint job.

Traceability is vital to the automotive industry because of the life-threatening implications of a defective vehicle. Using blast resistant laser marking to produce a 2D traceability code on each part that is shot blasted is essential and easy to do. Laser marking can mark on any material like resin, metal, glass, plastic, wood, or ceramic. Therefore, there are no constraints.

The aerospace industry follows strict surface requirements for safety and longevity. Because of these requirements, shot blasting is used for cleaning, deburring, stripping, texturing, and coating preparation.

Since the aerospace industry has strict requirements, manufacturers need traceability marks for ensuring and tracking compliance. For large products in the aerospace industry, laser marking creates extremely small traceability marks that will not be affected by shot blasting.

Heavy machinery and equipment use shot blasting to remove rust from steel equipment or machinery. Steel is a difficult material to mark on in the first place, but laser marking can focus the heat to adequately mark. These marks do not disintegrate with rust, over time, or with shot blasting.