Creating a permanent, readable mark on metal can be challenging for shops that rely on CO2 laser systems. A CO2 laser on its own cannot produce a durable dark mark on bare metals such as stainless steel or raw aluminum. To get a lasting result, you either apply a laser marking compound to the part or use metal that has been engineered for CO2 laser marking.
Both approaches work, but they serve different needs. Your choice depends on the material you’re working with, the required durability, and the volume of parts you process.
For high-volume flat tags and plates, pre-treated metal is a straightforward option. These materials are built to respond consistently to a CO2 laser, and they remove the steps of spraying, drying, and rinsing.
DuraBlack - DuraBlack is designed for harsh environments. It is a CO2 laser-markable aluminum product that meets requirements such as MIL-STD-130 and MIL-DTL-15024F. It holds up to abrasion, chemicals, UV exposure,