Evaluating Marking Methods Laser Marking vs Pin Marking
Comparing Marking Technologies
Do you need to track parts throughout the manufacturing process or add branding and/or traceability to comply with industry standards? Do you want to reduce the risk of counterfeiting or mass recalls?
Permanent part marking ensures your marks -- whether barcodes, serialization and other critical product information -- are more readable and longer lasting than other nonpermanent marking applications. MECCO specializes in two complete lines of direct part marking technologies: laser marking and pin marking (dot peen). This is a quick introduction to selecting which method your operation should invest in.
Factors to Consider when Selecting Laser vs. Pin Marking
It’s important to first consider the material, environment, and other key factorys before identifying the proper tool.- Materials Being Marked: Metals, Plastics, Cardboard, Etc.
- Environment: Clean room vs. dirt & debris
- Temperature When Marked: Standard temperature vs. high heat
- Surface Quality of Part Being Marked: Machined vs Cast Parts and Dry vs. Oil
- Life Expectancy of the Part
- Space & Location of Barcode
- Connectivity to the Factory Floor: Standalone System or Full Integration?
Once you have your marking criteria specified, explore the benefits that each piece of equipment offers.
How to Choose a Marking Method
Determining the best equipment, application & software
MECCO works with our customers to determine the best equipment, the best application, and the best software. We want to make sure that the products we provide are the right fit for your application in order to save time, money and frustration.
If you have questions about choosing dot peen or laser marking for your project, contact us today. We’ll be happy to guide you through to the best solution for your needs. Whether you have a basic marking project or sophisticated application requirements, MECCO brings our 130+ years of experience in part identification to deliver everything from standard units to full turnkey solutions.
See our systems in action!Marking Videos
Access MECCO's video library of marking applications, showcasing a variety of capabilities from laser marking and cutting to dot peen, Vibra Peen™ and scribe pin marking.
Free Sample Marking
See what laser and dot peen marks look like on your parts
Not sure what marking process would be best for your parts? MECCO offers free sample marking to help your evaluation. We'll test different settings and product options to help you determine the best solution.