Industrial Laser Nameplates, Foil, Decal Materials

TESA & 3M Laser Etchable tapes are products used for durable decal production through use of an industrial laser. Both products are adhesive-backed, layered two-color polymer tapes. A laser is used to burn off the top layer, exposing the underlying contrasting color. The materials listed here result in a white marking on a black matte background.

The key differences between TESA PV6 and 3M are thickness(6 vs. 3mil), laser debris(wet vs. dry), and price.
Downloads: 3M 7847 Spec Sheet and 3M 350 Adhesive Spec Sheet
tesa PV6 spec sheet

Use of either product allows a single material stock to be purchased for a variety of decal shapes and sizes, using the laser to both etch and boundary cut the decals.

Camcode Foil products are mounted onto wax-coated backing sheets, and sold per package of 10 sheets. Thicker products are sold in boxes of stacked individual nameplates.

Since laser marking of anodized products exposes the metal to long-term oxidation, use of a clear overcoat material is highly recommended to maximize long-term durability.

Cermark & Thermark Laser Marking Pastes are similar products used for marking bare metallic surfaces through use of an industrial laser. Both products result in a black ceramic marking which is bonded to the metallic surface through the application of localized heat from the laser. The key differences between Cermark & Thermark are in the liquid base, and the pre-laser coating stability.

Cermark is alcohol-based and results in a stable coating which allows prepped material to be stacked and stored for later laser marking.

Thermark is water-based and results in a powdery coating which is too fragile for storage. Immediate laser marking is recommended.

Part cleanup after laser marking is accomplished with simple water rinse and wiping.