Epilog Fusion M2 32 Manual page 203

APPENDIX B: MATERIAL SETTINGS
Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber)
Material
Etching: Like our C02 counterparts, the slower the speed setting, the deeper the etching. However, many metal applications can be processed at higher speed
settings in the range of 50-100%. Again, consider the marking requirements. If the only stipulation is permanency, you'll find the FiberMark can engrave a
broad range of metals at higher speeds, regardless of laser wattage. Don't be afraid to turn up the juice!
Annealing: To achieve an annealed mark, the focal point should be significantly away from zero. The unfocused, broader beam provides the heat to change the
surface color without actually penetrating the metal. The focal point can be either closer to or away from zero. Focusing away from the material should be in
the range of -.060" to- .090". Focusing closer to the material is generally in the range of +.070" to +.110".
Both focusing methods will result in a dark black annealing of the metal. Focusing up typically results in a slight indentation of the metal.
Multiple passes can darken the mark even more (no data to confirm whether multiple passes offer more permanency).
Polishing: Some steel alloys are easier to polish than others. For best results, clean off the surface with alcohol prior to processing. Any leftover grease, oils
or residue can affect how well the polished mark turns out. Polishing the metal where the final marks result in a bright white engraving requires finer tuning of
settings, more so than the etched or annealed marks. Determine a base speed and frequency setting and adjust the power in small increments/decrements. If
you are unable to get a white bright mark, increase the frequency setting and try again by adjusting only the power.
Titanium
Annealing
Etching/Marking
Titanium and Ti alloys are highly amenable to marking at this wavelength. Similar to aluminum, a black mark from the etching process is difficult to achieve.
Various shades of gray can be made, from very dark gray to light gray. Annealed marks can also be made on titanium materials using the same processing
parameter described for stainless steel. Depending on the Ti alloy, marks of various colors can be achieved by changing the frequency values for 1% up to
100%. It is common to see red, blue, green, orange, yellows and purple marks, depending on the frequency selected.
Plated Metals
Etching/Marking
Metals are often plated to assist with conductivity, to provide a protective coating against rust and elements and for aesthetic purposes. Plating thickness will
depend on application and purpose. Most of the plated metals processed through the applications lab are electronic components (to enhance conductivity)
and various fittings (protection against environment & rust). The typical plating thickness varies from .001" up to .005". Our recommended settings for
general metal engraving works well for ablating through the plating; exposing the base metal. Ablating the plating will also provide high contrast. Using an
oxidizer will enhance the look.
Our recommended settings for polishing of metals are a good starting point where ablating through the plating isn't an option. This is likely the most common
plated metal application as exposing the raw metal underneath will break continuity and / or expose the bare metal to rust and other elements. Note that the
contrast of polishing of plated metals won't be as consistent or contrasting as a direct ablation. Multiple passes will help and end results will vary based on the
metal used for plating, thickness of plating & size of mark. Our recommended settings for annealing will often work for plated metals where the plating has a
thicker wall and material used has high levels of carbon or metal oxides.
DPI/Freq. 20 watt
600 DPI Speed: 5-10%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.08 to +.110
600 DPI Speed: 20 - 30%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%
Focus: -.01 to +.01
600 - 1200 DPI Speed: 10-20%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%
Focus: -.09 to -.100"
Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber)
30 watt
Speed: 7-12%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.08 to +.110
Speed: 30 - 40%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%
Focus: -.01 to +.01"
Speed: 20-30%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%
Focus: -.09 to -.100"
+.09 to .100" +.09 to .100"
- 197 -
50 watt
Speed: 11-15%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1%
Focus: +.08 to +.110
Speed: 40 - 50%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1-5%
Focus: -.01 to +.01
Speed: 30-40%
Power: 100%
Frequency: 1 - 5%
Focus: -.09 to -.100"
+.09 to .100"