Plastics Decorating - January/February 2008 - (Page 29) 2D Data Matrix Code Information capacity Kind of information Information density About 4,000 characters Alphanumeric figure, Kanji 160 Barcode About 20 characters Alphanumeric figure 1 The hardware and software components that a laser manufacturer Error correction function Contained Uncontained incorporates into its systems makes Contrast As low as 20 percent Usually 80 percent a significant difference in marking (relative to substrate) and up quality and speed. A primary atReadability 360 degrees (any angle) Fixed position tribute is the power density (watts/ cm2) at the mark surface (which is Cycle time to apply code Milliseconds Seconds different than the raw output power (by laser) of the laser). Beam-steered Nd:YAG Figure 2 laser markers (arc lamp and diode Laser Marking light sources) utilize mirrors that are mounted on high-speed This segment focuses on using 2D Data Matrix codes on computer-controlled galvanometers to direct the laser beam three-dimensional plastic-manufactured component parts and across the surface to be marked, much like writing with assemblies (including Acetals, Nylons, Polyolefins, Polycar- pencil and paper. Each galvanometer, one on the Y-axis bonates, Polyesters, Styrenics, etc.). These types of plastics and one on the X-axis, provides the beam motion within are chemically inert, non-polar with low surface energies. the marking field. A flat-field lens assembly focuses the For direct part marking, Nd:YAG lasers offer advantages over laser light to achieve high power density on the substrate ink-based processes such as inkjet, which require surface pre- surface. Figure 3 shows optical beam delivery system using treatment and curing. Beam-steered Nd:YAG lasers (“YAG”) computer-controlled galvanometers. at 1064nm wavelength (near infrared spectrum) are popular in continued on next page the laser marking industry due to their emission wavelength, power performance, and versatility. This results in faster marking speeds, higher quality, and greater production. As reference, the continuous wave (CW) CO2 lasers operate at a wavelength of 10.6 µm (far infrared spectrum). CO2 lasers generate comparatively much lower peak power than YAG lasers and thus, they cannot produce high contrast markings on most plastics. Note, CO2 lasers are commonly used for marking barcodes and matrix codes on labels, paper-stock, and ink ablation. The mechanism of laser marking is to irradiate the polymer with a localized high-energy radiation source (laser). The radiant energy is then absorbed by the material and converted to thermal energy. The thermal energy induces reactions to occur in the material. All beam-steered YAG lasers are not created equal. YAG Laser Source beauty is in the eye of the beholder There’s more to decorating than aesthetics. Barcodes, instructions, and warnings are functional graphics that can be in molded and protected for years. Decals that are pretty useful. Enhance your product performance, manufacturing process, and product appearance with Romo Durable Graphics. X-Galvanometer Y-Galvanometer Flat field lens Computer-controlled mirrors DURABLE•GRAPHICS Y X Workpiece (920) 712 -4090 www.romoinc.com Figure 3 In-mold Graphic Solutions is a division of Romo Durable Graphics. 29 http://www.romoinc.com
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