The results obtained in marking ceramics with laser systems depend highly on the type of ceramic. Usually slight material removal is achieved. Household ceramics such as stoneware can be engraved. This involves removing the glazing, and – depending on the laser power – some of the underlying material too.
Nice effects can be achieved if the surface is covered beforehand with masking tape and the engraved surface is designed in color. Industrial ceramics are generally heat-resistant and have a smoother surface. The resulting engraving appears especially clean.
Since laser marking of ceramics requires high laser powers, laser systems at higher power levels (starting at 45 Watt) are more productive than devices with lower power outputs. One special laser application on ceramics is processing of special tiles (laser tiles). They can be marked directly with a CO2 laser, which produces a full, dark contrast.