Laser marker dedicated to gunmaking

24 Sep 2014

Specialized pulse configurations for deep material ablation creation of optimal edge quality.

Fonon Technologies, Lake Mary, FL, USA, a developer of fiber and CO₂ laser systems for marking, cutting and engraving applications, is now targeting gun manufacturers with the launch of a new fiber laser system for marking parts.

Gun makers have long marked components with logos and numbers for inventory purposes, to fulfill UID (unique identification) requirements, and for other engraving needs. Methods have been as varied as the parts. Fonon Technologies’ systems are used by manufacturers in the automotive, aerospace, industrial, defense, electronic and medical industries.

Conventionally, certain gun parts have been cast or molded with logos while others had serials numbers marked with dot peen machines. However, Fonon believes it is offering “the ultimate direct parts marking and deep engraving system for the gun industry” – the Fiber Laser Marking & Engraving System.

High-precision

Fonon’s engineering systems can make high-precision, deep 2D and 3D engravings on metal surfaces with a combination of its fiber laser technology, the robust and accurate FiberScan C3 software, and industrial grade-safe enclosures.The company says its new system “will push the boundaries of nanotechnology within the manufacturing sector, with more precise laser spectrum, higher strength, lighter weight, and increased control, allowing for more flexibility in an ever-changing environment.”

The gun marker uses specialized pulse configurations for deeper material ablation while creating perfect edge quality with straight and smooth walls and low cycle times. The system is specifically designed for high-speed metal removal with no re-melting, while being able to perform enhanced image detailing and finesse engraving.

Joshua Jones, company spokesman, commented, “Gun manufacturers are discovering that fiber lasers are not only idealfor marking and engraving metal parts, they take up less floor space, are easily upgradeable so that the system can grow and change directly with the applications and they also offer the fastest speeds, therefore increasing throughput.”

System electronics are situated on top of the laser device, allowing the ablated metal particles to free-fall into a collection container, without damaging the machine’s electronics hub. ATF regulations have led the firearms industry to seek laser solutions. With high peak power systems now available, firearm manufactures are able to meet ATF standards while manufacturing 24/7 with zero down time for maintenance or retooling.

About the Author

Matthew Peach is a contributing editor to optics.org.