Since its earliest beginnings as a theory developed by Albert Einstein in 1917 to its development into a tool commonly used today, the laser has revolutionized operations across industries. The capabilities of laser technology are key to many aspects of medical treatments, scientific research, fabrication, and more. MultiSource Manufacturing LLC utilizes laser marking and welding as a value-added service that offers noninvasive finishing treatments of a wide range of components and full assemblies. As a contract manufacturer with six locations making up the MultiSource network, we are able to offer comprehensive services, including laser marking and welding machines operated by skilled technicians.

For many manufacturing purposes, laser marking and welding is critical to completing components and assemblies. Thanks to our multiple facilities, the MultiSource network is able to offer these high-quality services with the capabilities of a large-scale industry leader and the customer-focused care of a small company. Our laser marking and welding technicians apply their skills across industries, including medical, aerospace and defense, electrical, semiconductor, and more.

 

Components of a Laser Marking or Welding System

A laser marking or welding system utilizes four basic components that work together to conduct the laser’s light-generated-heat to vaporize and remove materials from a component’s surface.

1. Laser: The laser (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) is a highly concentrated light source that, when used in a laser marking and welding application, is actively converting that light energy into heat. This heat can vaporize materials in thin layers from a surface in either vector or raster patterns.
2. Controller: In a laser marking and welding machine, the controller is the hand that guides the laser. This control is programmed to determine the direction, speed of motion, intensity, and spread of the laser. Most of these machines work on x and y axes on a flat surface, but others can work on a cylindrical surface using a helix adjustment. Other machines use galvo mirrors to direct the laser beam while both the laser and surface remain stationary.
3. Surface: The surface of the component or assembly that will be marked or welded make up the third part of the laser system. A wide range of materials can be used with a laser system, including all the metals and plastics the MultiSource network works with.
4. Ventilation: Because a laser system vaporizes the surface material, toxic fumes are created in the process. This emission requires a specialized vacuum ventilation system that can safely remove fumes from the workspace as well as remove debris from the marking or welding process that would otherwise contaminate the operation.

While lasers are commonly used to mark serial numbers, part details, logos, and other information, they have a full and varied range of uses. MultiSource uses laser systems to provide comprehensive finishing, noninvasive assembly, improved precision, and overall increased quality.

To learn more about these and other value-added services, contact MultiSource today at (952) 456-5500, and request more information or request a quote online.