Laser Marking Systems / Laser Markers
Laser Paint Removal
Laser paint removal technology has continued to emerge in recent years as it offers limitless possibilities and can be used in a myriad of applications. For example, laser marking paint removal can quickly and effectively remove layers of paint or plating from plastics, metals, and other surfaces. This process is an incredibly useful tool for those in the automotive, aerospace, agriculture, construction, and manufacturing industries.
These industries use laser paint removal for a variety of parts and materials for numerous reasons. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits they provide.
Benefits of Laser Paint Removal vs Traditional Methods
One of the biggest advantages of using lasers for paint and surface removal is that it is fast, efficient, and cost-effective compared to traditional methods like sandblasting or chemical stripping. Since no physical contact is made with the material being removed, there is less risk of damage to surrounding areas, which can save time and money in cleanup costs. This makes it an optimal choice for high-volume needs. With processes such as masking, ongoing maintenance is often required. On the other hand, laser paint removal can be fully automated, allowing for significant savings.
Additionally, since laser beams can be focused with pinpoint accuracy, they can be used to selectively remove certain areas while leaving others untouched. This accuracy is useful as it gives users greater control over their projects. Lastly, because lasers do not use any hazardous chemicals, there are no environmental hazards associated with their use.
In the following section, we’ll explore how lasers are used for paint removal and surface removal (the process that peels the film or plating from a target).
Basic Principles of Paint Peeling Using Laser Markers
Also known as laser ablation and laser coating removal, laser energy is focused on the material, and short pulses repeat. These pulses ultimately release the coating from the surface, leaving the desired marking and surface intact. This process is highly precise and efficient, making it ideal for a wide range of industrial applications.
In simple terms, laser ablation involves removing the surface coating of plastic to expose the base material or coating underneath. However, the effectiveness of laser paint removal can vary depending on the material being treated. Certain materials may respond differently to laser energy, requiring adjustments in laser parameters such as wavelength, power, and pulse frequency to achieve the best results.
In the shift lever processing example below, the black coating on the plastic was removed to allow light to pass through to the coloured material underneath. Laser paint removal is useful for exposing multiple layers of plastics (such as black, red, and green coatings).
Shift lever paint peeling
Features of KEYENCE Laser Paint Removal Machines
Paint removal machines utilising laser technology help precisely remove layers of paint or coating from surfaces. These machines are widely used across manufacturing industries such as automotive, medical, aerospace, and construction, where there is a common need for efficient paint removal equipment.
KEYENCE laser paint removal equipment offers various features and options to cater to your specific needs. Our machines prioritise precision, speed, accuracy, versatility, and durability. User-friendliness and customisation are also standard across all KEYENCE products.
It is important to weigh these different factors to choose the right machine for your particular needs. So, let’s look at some common types of KEYENCE laser markers used for laser paint removal to help you make an informed decision.
3-Axis Hybrid Laser Marker MD-X Series
While commonly purposed for marking applications, the 3-Axis Hybrid Laser Marker MD-X Series is perfect for ablation needs as well. The level of flexibility attained through its variable Z-Axis scanner, automatic position adjustment, and high peak power allow it to be an ideal fit for a vast array of ablation applications.
Since IR (Infrared) light travels through transparent and translucent materials, it is optimal for paint removal applications where the underlying substrate falls into these categories. The MD-X will efficiently and effectively remove all paint or coating without any negative impact on the plastic beneath.
3-Axis CO2 Laser Marker ML-Z Series
The 3-Axis CO2 Laser Marker ML-Z Series is a CO2 laser system designed specifically with paint ablation and other processing needs in mind. KEYENCE's 3-Axis control keeps the ML-Z perfectly in focus throughout its large field of view and allows it to account for focal depth changes, unlocking the potential to ablate paint or other coatings from non-flat objects.
The ML-Z is perfect for any application where paint needs to be removed from a metal substrate. The very long (10600 nm) wavelength of the ML-Z is able to quickly remove the paint layer while having zero impact on the underlying metal. Its large beamspot and high output power allow for incredibly fast ablation without the fear of leaving paint behind.
Environmental Considerations in Paint Removal with Laser
For most organisations, being conscious of sustainability and eco-friendliness is a priority. When considering paint removal with lasers, several environmental factors come into play.
Unlike traditional paint removal methods that involve the use of chemical strippers or abrasive materials, laser paint removal is a chemical-free process. This eliminates the need for hazardous chemicals and reduces the risk of environmental contamination from toxic substances.
Laser paint removal also produces minimal waste compared to other methods. Since the paint is vaporised directly from the surface, little to no physical waste is generated during the process. This reduces the amount of material that needs to be disposed of and minimises the environmental impact of the operation.
These systems are even designed to be energy-efficient, as many machines use advanced technologies to optimise energy usage. This helps to minimise the overall environmental footprint of the process by reducing energy consumption and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
Finally, laser paint removal systems are equipped with features to ensure safe operation and minimise the risk of accidents or environmental hazards. These include interlocks, emergency stop buttons, and protective enclosures to contain laser emissions and prevent exposure to harmful radiation.
Paint Removing Laser Applications
So, how are manufacturers and companies utilising paint removing laser technology to improve their operations? From automotive, aerospace, and other industries, here are a few common applications that benefit.
Onboard instrument panel switch paint peeling
Creating contrast on vehicle switches is usually done one of two ways: either the desired contents are printed on top, or the paint is removed with a chemical or removal agent. However, the former method requires custom printing plates for each mark, while the latter method involves expensive chemical consumables. Laser markers simplify this application because they can peel the paint off the part via laser irradiation.
Cars with illuminated switches are becoming much more common, requiring fast and effective processes to meet the demand. For automotive manufacturers producing both EV and gas-powered vehicles, having efficient technology like this is critical to the bottom line. Many have ditched traditional methods, such as masking, due to the increased costs and time that they involve. As a result, laser markers are being rapidly adopted thanks to their ease of use.
These laser paint removal tools are being utilised on larger parts and components like airplanes, as manufacturers have found them to save significant amounts of time while eliminating hazardous waste. Because planes need their coatings removed every five years or so (due to branding changes, fading paint, and inspection purposes), having the right tools and technology for the job is paramount.
Laser marker machines, such as our 3-Axis Hybrid MD-X Series, are the perfect fit for marking these types of parts. Their built-in vision automatically identifies a target’s shape to ensure the marking position is always accurate. Another useful feature is the system can distinguish between parts and mark each part correctly based on its unique shape, size, and requirements. For example, the marker can quickly identify and differentiate between onboard instrument panel switches solely based on their sizes.
Overall, laser paint and coating removal is an incredibly useful tool for quickly removing layers of paint or plating from various surfaces. This is all completed efficiently without damaging surrounding areas or requiring consumables or manual cleaning. For those who work in the automobile industry or manufacturing, laser paint removal and laser marking machines will continue to provide the technology that is required to meet demands.
Regardless of the application, KEYENCE has the paint removal machines and technology to improve your operations. Contact us today or request a demo below.
