Laser engraving and silk screening are two ways to print logos and patterns on the surfaces of 3D molding prototypes. The working principles are totally different. Also, their final effects vary.
The Working Principle of Laser Engraving
First, the technician outputs the file for the pattern to be engraved in a format confirmed by the laser engraving machine. After that, the part’s surface is burnt at a high temperature by a high-temperature laser ray to create the pattern. This pattern is actually a scar left by a high-temperature burn, but the scar is calculated by a computer.
There are also many different types of laser engraving machines distinguished by their function, but the principle is the same. There are also some laser engraving machines that can engrave the surface of the part in black or red through the principle of the spectrum. However, only one color can be engraved at a time, and one laser engraving machine cannot change colors simultaneously.
The Working Principle of Silk Screening
When doing silk screening, the ink is transferred to the substrate through the mesh of the image by squeezing the squeegee, forming the same graphic as the design. One color is printed at a time, so several screeners can be used to produce a multi-colored image. A silk screening equipment is simple, easy to operate, and inexpensive to make screeners and print.
It is also possible to print a variety of colors on the same screener at the same time. And now multi-color silk screening machine has been very popular in the market.
The Differences Between Laser Engraving and Silk Screening
Laser engraving is scorching. So when you touch the pattern, you tell it is concave. While silk screening does not destroy the prototype’s surface but prints on it. So the pattern is convex.
The image printed by silk screening can be in multiple colors without damaging the part’s surface. But the colors of laser engraving are very limited. When metal prototypes are laser engraved and exposed, they are prone to rust.
Conclusion
In general, deciding how to get your logos and patterns to be printed depends on your detailed requirements. We at X Rapid Technologies are very pleased to offer you the best option for your needs. Or contact us now to learn more about our capabilities of rapid prototyping.
