Precision and permanence with laser-engraving POM
Discover how Polyoxymethylene (POM) offers unparalleled precision and durability for laser engraving, meeting the demanding requirements of various industrial applications across Europe.
Why Choose Laser-engraving POM?
1. Higher Visual Contrast
POM produces a distinct color change on the surface during laser processing (typically resulting in white or light gray markings).
- Dark-colored POM: Laser engraving creates sharp white contrast, making it ideal for marking logos, serial numbers, and text.
- No Ink Required: Unlike traditional screen printing, laser engraving eliminates the need for ink. This prevents issues such as paint chipping or wear, which is particularly critical for components subject to frequent friction.
2. Non-Contact Processing
POM is commonly used in the manufacture of precision gears, bearings, and bicycle drivetrain components.
- No Mechanical Stress: Laser engraving is a non-contact process. Unlike mechanical cutting or dot peening, it applies no pressure to delicate parts, thereby eliminating risks of deformation or loss of dimensional accuracy.
- Exceptional Precision: The laser can reproduce extremely fine details, maintaining clarity even when engraving small specification numbers on miniature gears.
3. Chemical Resistance And Durability
POM inherently offers excellent resistance to chemical solvents and superior wear resistance.
- Chemical Stability: Adhesives or inks can easily detach when exposed to lubricants or cleaning agents. Laser engraving permanently modifies the material’s surface structure, ensuring markings are durable and capable of withstanding harsh industrial environments.
4. Suitability for Automated Production
POM allows for an efficient production with modern technology, making it a option for automated production
- High Efficiency: Laser marking is extremely fast. Content (e.g., serial numbers) can be changed instantly via computer software, making it highly suitable for high-volume automated production lines and significantly reducing labor costs.
5. Superior Aesthetic Finish
Due to POM’s melting point and thermal characteristics, laser-engraved edges are exceptionally clean, with minimal burrs or melt residue. This preserves the professional appearance and industrial texture of the parts.
Targeting key European industries
Laser-engravable POM is highly sought after in the medical, automotive parts, and electronics sectors, where precise and permanent identification markings are crucial. Its versatility makes it ideal for a wide range of critical applications.
Solutions Tailored To Your Needs
From low volume, high variety production to applications demanding excellent wear resistance, our laser-engravable POM eliminates the need for secondary processing, streamlining your manufacturing and improving efficiency.
Specification
| Properties | Test Method | Unit | FMX20L | FMX40L |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melt Index | ISO 1133 | g/10min | 9 | 27 |
| Rockwell Hardness | ISO 2039-2 | M | 80 | 80 |
| Flexual Strength | ISO 178 | MPa | 88 | 90 |
| Flexual Modulus | ISO 178 | MPa | 2500 | 2550 |
| Tensile Strength (Yield) | ISO 527 | MPa | 62 | 63 |
| Tensile Elongation (Break) | ISO 527 | % | 35 | 30 |
| Chary Notched Impact Strength | ISO 179 | kJ/m² | 6.5 | 5.5 |
Notes:
- Except for color contrast, the mechanical properties of laser-engravable POM grades are comparable to standard POM base resins.
- Custom laser-engravable POM can be developed based on the customer’s current POM specifications by selecting a base resin with a similar Melt Index (MI).
Product Application Comparison
| Injection Mold Customization | Labeling | Screen Printing | Laser Engraving | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Order Pattern | High volume | Premium products | Low volume, high variety | Low volume, high variety |
| Key Features | No secondary processing required | Labels may detach | Poor wear resistance; paint may chip | Excellent wear resistance |