The most common use on metals being laser engraved is to add a part number, bar code, QR code and/or identify parts with a product code or logo. The laser engraved method is perfect for this as it can permanently mark a part or item without stressing the component as would happen with traditional engraving.
The nuclear business is a perfect example of laser engraving on metal because full traceability is required on ALL parts that are exposed to a source, no matter how small. Laser marking allows us to engrave serial numbers and part numbers (sometimes including the source) on tiny parts with text so small a magnifying glass is required to read it. Traceability on all medical equipment is to be implemented in the coming year where new legislation will require a QR code, bar code or manufacturers number. Laser engraving is ideal for this, even on surgical steel.
With the precision control of a laser, the speed, power and frequency of the beam can be varied achieving different results from a near black marking to a soft watermark like etch. Deeper engraving can be gained by repeating the etch with multiple passes.
Because of the diversity of metal structures they react differently to the laser giving varied results. Steel would look different to aluminium if the same settings were used but once set for that particular part the last item will look exactly the same as the first. See below list of metals we have engraved.