There are various ways to apply markings to plastic or aluminium enclosures so that they are both permanent and clearly legible. The options range from adhesive labels to various printing techniques, but laser marking stands out as a particularly precise and versatile solution. It enables high-contrast marking directly onto the material surface without additional layers.
Which approach is most suitable depends on whether the focus is on branding, colour prints, technical requirements or a combination of these factors.
Laser marking is a process used to mark components directly on their surface without the need to apply additional printed layers. It is particularly suitable for applications where precision and durability are crucial.
A major advantage is its abrasion resistance. This means that, in practice, the marking is abrasion-resistant, water-resistant and smudge-proof, and does not wear away under normal use. Even uneven surfaces and those that are difficult to print on can be marked using a laser. This is particularly useful for changing layouts, such as sequential serial numbers and model designations, consistent or changing barcodes/QR codes, single-colour graphics, etc.
RAILTEC with laser marking
About the “Laser Marking” service
Unlike conventional printing processes, where ink is applied (often in several layers and steps), laser marking alters the material surface itself. In this process, the laser beam specifically alters pigments and molecules in the material in such a way that a visible colour change (colour shift) occurs. As a result, the colour can change from light to dark or from dark to light; for example, a grey-white housing colour results in a darker marking colour. In the case of an anthracite-grey housing, laser marking produces a medium to light grey inscription. Depending on the base material and material colour, the intensity of the colour change may be more or less contrasting, but it remains visible throughout the entire product lifecycle.
SYNERGY: combining precision machining and laser marking
Laser marking can be applied to a wide range of materials commonly used in standard enclosures. These include plastics such as ABS, ASA+PC, ASA+PC-FR, PC and PA, as well as reinforced variants such as PA GF. Aluminium surfaces can also be marked effectively. Furthermore, rubber-like materials such as TPE can be processed on request, which further expands the range of applications. For plastic enclosures, the best visual results are generally achieved on white, grey or black surfaces, where the contrast of the marking is particularly clear.
Light-coloured laser marking on a dark SOFT-CASE
This marking method is useful when components require individual identification, such as serial numbers or product-specific data. Laser marking is also well suited for integrating machine-readable codes directly onto the housing.
Whenever high precision and fine detail are essential, or when a clean, durable and abrasion-resistant marking is required, laser marking offers clear advantages. It is therefore frequently used in applications where identification, traceability and a professional appearance play a key role.