If you are thinking of investing in an engraving machine, you are surely wondering which one is best for your activity. In this post, we explain the differences between hand or mechanical engraving and laser engraving, the advantages of each one and we indicate which option is better according to the application you want to carry out.
Introduction to the engraving sector:
Until the late 1970s, manual, mechanical engraving machines also known as pantographs were the only type of engraving equipment available on the market. These pantographs were used to engrave trophy plaques, pens, watches, signs, and many more items.
Computer-driven mechanical engraving machines revolutionized the world of engraving, as they made it possible to dispense with the brass stencils used with pantographs and go directly to writing a message or importing a design directly from the computer and viewing how it was automatically recorded by the machine.
In recent years, Atomstack laser engraving machines have arrived to further simplify the engraving process, by allowing us to mark an infinite number of materials using a beam of light, avoiding the relative complexity of the necessary use of engraving tools (burs, drill bits, diamonds) which is intrinsic to mechanical engraving.
However, although computer-driven mechanical engraving machines replaced pantographs in a relatively short period of time, the effect of lasers has not had the same impact on computerized rotary engraving, and today both technologies coexist. However, the engraving sector is turning more and more towards laser marking technology (being dominant in many specific sectors), especially due to the new technologies that are emerging within this range of equipment.
What items do I need to get started?
To start a laser cutting and engraving business, you need the following elements:
- Laser system - the most important element: A laser system that adapts to your needs.
- Computer: It can be a desktop computer or a laptop. Almost any computer will allow you to link it with your laser machine.
- Graphic software: Laser printing equipment allows you to print with software such as: Illustrator, AutoCad, CorelDraw, PhotoShop, among many others. Even with Acrobat Reader if you save the file in PDF.
- Extraction system: To work with a laser engraving and cutting machine, it is necessary to have an extraction system for the smoke and waste it generates.
Laser engraving and cutting machines:
Atomstack laser engraving technology is developing at a very fast pace and every year we receive new advances. Generally speaking, today's lasers are cheaper, faster, and easier to use than they were a few years ago.
The trend towards laser marking is currently very evident in the sector due to the fact that new laser technologies have incorporated functionalities that were previously only available in more sophisticated and expensive equipment, now appearing as standard in smaller models and without a significant increase in the cost (red pointer, air assistant, cylindrical accessories, more power options, optical recognition systems, etc.).
All in all, since hand or manual engraving works by taking away bits of metal and the other hand, Atomstack laser engraving method is more resistant to wear and corrosion over time.