Laser processing laminates

TroLase engraving laminates are ideal for laser cutting and engraving

In this tips and tricks guide we show you how to get the best results when laser processing our TroLase engraving laminates,Read on to find tips, tricks and tested laser parameters for processing the material.

What applications can you create using TroLase?

Signage and more

Laminates are particularly well suited to creating all kinds of signage. When the cover layer is removed by the laser beam, th base layer is exposed revealing the second colour. The effective contrast created by the two colours not only makes the engraving visible, it can create eye catching deigns. Combining multiple laminates on top of each other is another way to create special effects used for personalising your laser cut signage. Your only limit is your imagination! Watch our video for inspiration where we show you an example application: TroLase name badges.

Easily create two-toned stickers

Two-toned stickers can be easily created by laser cutting and laser engraving TroLase Foils and Thins. The kiss-cut technique is used when processing these material. Using this process means that the upper adhesive foil is cut but the layer underneath is not. The top layer is thus “kissed” by the laser beam but not separated. This allows the sticker to be quickly and easily pulled off. The adhesive foil is protected and the sticker adheres perfectly to the surface where it is applied.

Processing and application information for TroLase materials

Selecting the correct table

To achieve the best possible processing results for engraving materials, the selection of the optimal table is essential. We recommend using the aluminium grid table or the acrylic cutting grid table. To optimise the vacuum, simply cover the free surface area with paper or another thin material. That fixates the laminate in the right place during laser engraving.

Laser engraving direction

laser engraving materials from bottom to top is recommended since the exhaust hose is above (in back of) the laser machine. It helps ensure that the already lasered areas remain free from debris and that the core layer is not discoloured. This is especially relevant when processing laminates with a light carrier layer and dark cover layer.

Resolution from 500 dpi

Choosing the correct resolution is also crucial for achieving the best results with material, graphic and processing time all playing an important role. For processing TroLase, a medium resolution of 500 dpi is recommend for achieving optimal results. It allows the finer details in the workpiece to be engraved. However, don’t forget: the higher the resolution, the longer the processing time.

Use the 2” lens

Our expert staff recommend using the 2” lens for laser engraving laminates. Using this allows both small, delicate details in the workpiece to be worked as well as engrave large surfaces in top quality. The reason for this is that the universal lens has a broader focal length but is still small enough to engrave the details. Thicker laminates can also be cut with the focus length.

Use the large nozzle

For processing TroLase, the large nozzle offers the best results. That makes a weaker dose of Air Assist so that the freshly melted material doesn’t cool off too fast. If the Air Assist is too strong, the engraving results take on a light gray effect. A moderate Air Assist is also necessary for the life span of the lens since smaller dirt particles do not reach the lens on the air flow.

Laser engraving for large surfaces: De-focusing recommended

For laser engraving large surface areas with laser, intentionally de-focusing usually works better than processing the material “in focus”. Set the z offset to between 2 and 7 mm, depending on the power of your laser machine and the graphic, in order to achieve a more even result. By de-focusing, grooves are avoided and the end result has a smoother surface. The chosen lens also plays a role here: for large surfaces, it’s best to use lenses with larger focal lengths. For very fine details (e.g., a 4 point font), we recommend not using any z offset.

Cleaning the material

Generally speaking, if the parameters are optimally set, minimal cleaning should be required. In most cases, simply use a damp cloth to wipe off the smoulder as only minimal residue will be created. If more substantial residues are unexpectedly visible on the product, we recommend cleaning with alcohol-free cleaner. After that, nothing stands in the way of a brilliant result.

Determining the ideal laser parameters

Our experts have tested and collected the optimal parameters for processing TroLase laser engraving laminates. Use these to achieve perfect results when laser processing.

View the laser parameters

We recommend the grayscale matrix for determining the laser parameters for new materials and product groups. It will allow you to find the ideal parameters easily.

Tips & Tricks: Grayscale matrix

TroLase laminates: Ideal for interior and exterior applications, personalisation and more

TroLase engraving laminates are perfect for interior and exterior use. The materials can be perfectly personalised and used for a multitude of applications. We offer single or multi-layered laser materials, featuring a range of colours and a variety of material thicknesses. They are also available with self-adhesive reverse sides and special textured surfaces suitable for applications in challenging environments. Discover the diverse world of the TroLase product family.

TroLase laser material

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