Plastics firm Ampacet has introduced two new masterbatches for laser marking.
The masterbatches are cost-effective and enable high-definition, high-contrast laser marking on clear and dark surfaces using NdYAG laser systems.
Laser marking is widely used for marking logos, barcodes, graphics, expiration dates and serial numbers in a number of industries, including food packaging, automotive, medical and electronics. Laser marks are indelible and can resist abrasion and solvents.
Because most plastics cannot be detected by laser beams, additives can be added to enable and improve a laser marking process. Ampacet's new masterbatch Laser Mark 1001074-E enables sharp, dark laser marks to be made on transparent or light coloured plastic parts with an NdYAG laser, while not affecting the colour or transparency of the plastic part. It is antimony-free and suitable for food contact applications.
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The other new masterbatch, Laser Mark 1001088-E, is designed for complex projects featuring different colour shades, according to Ampacet. It enables either dark or clear markings to be made depending on both the colour of the plastic item and the parameters of the laser.
Laser marking displays several advantages compared to conventional methods such as printing. The laser beam produces high-definition images or labels, with the flexibility to handle items with varying geometries. The technique is a sustainable alternative to labels or ink printing, and removes helps avoid ink contamination during the recycling process.
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