Omtech LYF-20MP User Manual page 51

5.4 Instructions for Specific Materials
When engraving a new material, it can be helpful to engrave a test matrix of small boxes produced
with various speed, power, and frequency settings to home in on the exact effect that you are
looking for. To speed up the process, here are some general guidelines for commonly engraved
materials. However, these are only guidelines for your convenience and it is the responsibility of the
user to consult material safety data sheets and other sources to ensure the safety of working with
various materials and setups. Some of the materials listed will require additional workspace and
personal protective equipment in addition to this engraver.
5.4.1 Metals
When engraving metals, generally use high power, low frequency, and low to medium speed
settings. To avoid using your marker at greater than 80% power for extended periods, you can also
get similar effects by reducing the power somewhat while also increasing the number of passes or
decreasing the engraving speed.
Be mindful that some metals will produce conducting, reflective, and/or toxic dust. Softer metals
naturally produce more dust during engraving, while harder metals can require higher power
settings that also produce more dust. In addition to the risk to the user's skin and eyes, there may
be enough dust produced (especially for repetitive industrial applications) that a full ventilation
system is required to address the problem. Similarly, operators and others in the work area may
need to use breathing PPE such as masks and respirators.
• Aluminum: Bare aluminum requires a somewhat higher frequency than other metals and will
never produce a strong black mark similar to those created by engraving steel. When darker
marking is required, consider employing anodization or producing a deep engraving that can be
darkened by using black epoxy or other filler. Anodized aluminum requires a little more speed
but a very low frequency.
• Powder Coated Metals: Metals with a powder coating usually require a very high frequency and,
for best results, at least 3 passes to remove the coating and polish the bare lower layer.
• Precious Metals: Gold and similarly soft metals should be engraved with less power but a
moderate speed. Silver and other semi durable metals are best engraved at a slightly higher
power and slightly slower speed, but still not at the same power and speed as steel or aluminum.
5.4.2 Plastics
When engraving plastics, generally use low-power and high-speed settings. Marking and engraving
with too much power or at too low a speed can concentrate too much energy at the point of
contact, causing the plastic to melt. Among other problems, this may produce poor engraving
quality, noxious fumes, and even fires.
5.4.3 Stone
When engraving various kinds of stone, generally use moderate power and speed at low frequency.
As with ceramics and metals, be mindful of the dust created (especially for repetitive industrial
applications) and take similar measures to ensure the safety of users and others in the work area.
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