Laser Marking Materials

CerMark ARA Contest

2011-12-06T11:03:00.001-05:00

Hello all,

We are hosting the first annual CerMark Laser Marking Materials Art Contest!

CerMark’s 1st Annual Art Contest begins Jan 1, 2012 and ends Feburary 15, 2012, at 12:00 AM Eastern Standard Time (EST). Artists 18 years old or older are eligible. A photograph of your original artwork on any substrate as long as the use of CerMark related products are used. Artwork MUST contain CerMark related products. Any photos submitted without CerMark related products are ineligible.

Please submit photographs of marked items on-line through our email at cermarkcontest@gmail.com. We will not accept photos of marked items submitted through the mail. Please submit no more than three (3) photos of marked items. We will not accept more than one contestant per e-mail address.

Entrants who live outside the USA are eligible to enter as well.

Digital photographs of marked items must be in a .jpeg, .jpg or .gif format. Files should be resized and submitted at least 300 dpi at 7.5 x 10 inches. File size may not be larger than (5Mb).

To enter contest please provide all contact information in the email:

Name (optional)

Company Name

Address and postal code

Country Code (if not in the USA)

Telephone Number

Fax Number

Short description of artwork submitted

CerMark employee’s will pick the top 10 photos of marked items to be displayed at the booth during the ARA show, March 2012. Creativity of the use of CerMark materials, difficulty of use and artistic talent will be considered but not be the sole criteria to be a top 10 finalist picked. The 10 finalist entries will be printed 8”x 10” photo paper and displayed with a number (1-10) representing the artwork at the Ferro Corporation’s CerMark booth at the ARA trade show. Three (3) winner’s will be selected by popular vote at the 2012 ARA show. Visitors to the CerMark booth may fill out a ballot with their name and the number corresponding to their favorite entry. Votes will be placed in a box and winners will be decided by the most number of votes from each numbered photo of the marked items.

The winners will be announced at 12:00 pm PST on March 9th 2012 at the CerMark booth. The winners of the contest will be contacted shortly after the show and awarded their prize. Winning photos and selected finalists will be published on the blog, http://lasermarkingmaterials.blogspot.com/ or follow us on Twitter CerMark@CerMarkProducts, after the ARA show.

Prizes:

1st Place Prize: 500 dollars credit toward CerMark products

2nd Place Prize: 250 dollars credit toward CerMark products

3rd Place Prize: 100 dollars credit toward CerMark products

For official contest rules please e-mail, cermarkcontest@gmail.com.

More details to follow, please check back soon!

For any questions about the contest or related matter you can also e-mail us at:

cermarkcontest@gmail.com

Have fun!

Follow us on Twitter!

2011-12-02T17:00:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone!

We are alive and well and you can now follow us on twitter!

https://twitter.com/CerMarkProducts

CerMark Can Take the Heat

2009-07-22T13:43:00.005-05:00

Hello,

Once again our materials have passed many chemical and physical testing. Here is a video demonstrating our materials with standing temperatures up to 2500 degrees Fahrenheit. Stay tuned for more postings in the future, take care!

Here is the YouTube link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNNOEFwPeME

New Metal Marking Colors from CerMark

2009-02-17T13:41:00.010-05:00

Hello All,

Here is a sneak peek of a few pictures of art work done with our 45 watt CO2 laser. These are just some examples of what you can do with our new Metal Marking Products we will be launching. They will be on display at the ARA show in Las Vegas next week if you need a closer look. These new products work well on stainless steel with a 45 watt CO2 Laser as well as our CW 10 watt Fiber laser. They are still in developmental stages so all the proper durability testing still has not been done to them yet, we will keep you posted on the testing. The launch of these products will coincide with the ARA show this February the 25th, so they will be available to purchase after that date. More information will be available at the ARA show in Las Vegas so if you are going, Dennis and Dave meet you there to answer any questions you might have. We will be posting updates on these products and any new news we can offer as soon as possible so please stay posted.

Las Z mark

Welcome Joe Sarver!

2009-01-26T14:52:00.001-05:00

2008 has been a very busy year for us. We have had many changes in our department and new product developments as well.

Mr. Science has left the Laser Marking Materials group. Sean Weir had a promotion as the Product Manager of the SpecTruLite line of heavy-metal-free organic inks and coatings. He is responsible for sales and marketing, managing technical service for prospective sales, and supporting Ferro's global organic glass products business. But have no fear Mr. Science fans, Sean remains in our facility and he serves as a consultant for the laser group. We wish Sean all the best with his promotion and hope he brings the same success to his new Organics group as he did with our Laser group. Since there now is an opening position that needed filling we added a new Scientist, Joe Sarver. Joe has a background in color styling & matching in inks, coatings, plastics, and fiber using organic and inorganic chromophores. His specialties are in functional applications of organic & inorganic compounds for use in the areas of laser marking and infrared reflecting technology. We feel that Joe’s special abilities will complement our group and will enable us to provide even more exciting innovations in Laser Marking in our future. Welcome to our group Joe!

Universal Laser mentions our product

2008-06-23T15:37:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone!

We stumbled across a video from an internet television site call Revision3 that mentions our product. If you check out the channel "Systm" you will see a show that is designed for the home project and the Do It Yourself enthusiast. In episode 46, Dave Stevens of Universal Laser shows a demonstration of his VLS 3.50 laser. This episode is about a half hour long but it offers some good tips for the beginner as well as some tips for the advanced laser user. Thanks Dave for mentioning us!

If you would like to check it out click on the title link above, or use this link:
http://revision3.com/systm/versalaser2/

New Laser Video

2008-06-16T15:21:00.006-05:00

Hello everyone, I'm new to this blog and relativity new to the CerMark team. I started in roughly in October 2007 and I'm happy to be a helping hand in providing technical support for our CerMark laser marking materials. I think I met some of you at the ARA show in Las Vegas. Anyways, we just completed a new video on our LMM-6012 screen printable metal marking material. In this video we will show tips on how to use this product as well as a final reading of a small data matrix code. You can also view this video at youtube if you click on the following link.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXELR1492A4

Please stop back from time to time as we will be posting new tips and techniques and also keeping you informed on any new happenings with our team.

EtchAsketch

Back from Vegas, see us at LaserU!

2008-03-07T17:24:00.002-05:00

Well, we survived the ARA show in Vegas, it was a busy week for us! We saw a lot of you there and had a great time meeting everyone. Dennis and I were able to attend the Engraving Etc. "Family Reunion" dinner party. We both won door prizes and had a great time hanging out with the EE crew. Thanks to David L. and the rest of the bunch for the hospitality, camaraderie, and the comedy!

We also met with Mike F. from Laserbits and learned a little about LaserU. Here is a link to a video about metal marking he produced on Youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KmVSSqhpqc

Check it out, you'll hear Mike narrating the video.....

See you next year!!

Mr. Science

Engraving Etc. visits Las Vegas

2008-02-05T17:45:00.000-05:00

Two years ago I met Harvey Lentchner at the ARA show and he told me about David Lavaneri's website, Engraving Etc. This site is an online resource for the awards and engraving industry. It offers discussion forums on all types of topics related to the industry including tools and equipment, industry news, software, glass etching and sandblasting, dye sub and imaging, FAQ's, and engraving tips and tricks.

I think the site is a great resource, if you are interested it is located at http://www.engravingetc.org/ If you are interested in joining, the subscription fee is 1 year for $36 or 2 years for $60. In my opinion, it's well worth the money to share in the engraving expertise available on this site. Everyone there is extremely helpful, and very knowledgable in the trade.

The Engraving Etc. crew will be hosting several events in Las Vegas during the ARA show this year as well. They are planning a show and tell night, a dinner party and a couple of informal get-togethers. Join now, and you'll be able to enjoy the fun and camaraderie of all the great people who make the site such a friendly and welcome place to visit.

Mr. Science

On the Road Again.....

2008-01-25T11:46:00.000-05:00

It’s that time of year again, and we’re planning our trade show attendance and travel for the year. Here is a list of where we’re planning to go this year, so if you want to see us (or avoid us!) you’ll know where we are! We’ll be updating this as we continue through the year, so check back to see where we’ve decided to go.

- Mr. Science

January 29-31st
MDM West, Anaheim CA.
Medical device manufacturing show, Dave Smith attending.

February 27-29th
ARA Show, Las Vegas NV
Dave, Dennis Gilmore, Steve Rozwood and myself exhibiting, laser marking demonstrations in booth.

April 8-9th
UID Forum, Huntsville AL
Unique Identification program seminars and booths, Steve Rozwood attending.

April 10-13th
China Glass 2008, Beijing
Glass Technology show, Dave and myself exhibiting, laser marking demonstrations in booth.

April 16-18th
SGCD Show, Orlando FL
Glass and ceramic decorating show, Ferro Corporation exhibiting, laser marked glass and ceramic items on display.

September 8-13th
IMTS Show, Chicago IL
Manufacturing technology show, possibly exhibiting.

September 23-25th
Assembly Tech, Rosemont IL
Manufacturing and assembly technology show, probably exhibiting.

October 6-8th
Fabtech, Las Vegas, NV
Fabrication technology show, possibly exhibiting.

October 21-25th
Glasstec, Dusseldorf Germany
Glass technology show, Ferro Corporation exhibiting.

November 11-14th
Airtec, Frankfurt Germany
Aerospace industry show, possibly attending.

CerMark in Appliance Design magazine

2007-09-05T09:08:00.000-05:00

Appliance Design magazine is a publication devoted to providing solutions for design and engineering teams in the global, commercial and medical appliance industry. They have served the appliance industry for 52 years. In this month's issue, we have submitted an article on the potential benefits of using CerMark laser marking in the appliance industry. You can check out the article at:

CerMark Article

Mr. Science

Etchstar uses CerMark products to customize iPods

2007-07-06T10:28:00.000-05:00

Check out this video from Etchstar, one of our customers that is using Cermark LMM-6000 to customize iPods, computers and other personal electronic devices.

You can visit the Etchstar web site to see more of what they do, click on the link to the right.

Also, you can now see our own videos on YouTube.... Visit the YouTube site and type "Cermark" into the search field to find our videos.

Mr. Science

Ferro and DataLase Sign Agreement

2007-01-31T15:36:00.000-05:00

Ferro and DataLase Sign Agreement To Market
Special Laser Marking Aerosol For Metals

Laser markings on a metal surface using the DataLase process.

Click on all photos in blog for larger images.

Ferro Corporation of Cleveland, Ohio and DataLase of Widnes, UK have signed a distribution agreement and will develop and market a special laser-markable aerosol containing the DataLase® pigment for applying variable information onto metal or painted metal parts. This agreement covers the US, Canada and Mexico. The new technology will be launched to the market in December 2006.

The new spray containing the DataLase® pigment will be applied onto metal parts using an aerosol and after it has been exposed to a portable low-power CO2 DataLase-approved laser, it will undergo a chemical reaction in the pigment turning it from white to black.

The new solution will be targeted at a broad range of industries, including automotive, aerospace and appliances, for tracking, tracing and bar-coding high-value parts. This is a totally new application for the DataLase process, which to date has been used on primary and secondary packaging.

Phil Maitland, Ferro Glass Systems Global Marketing & Business Development Manager said, “We are very excited to be collaborating with DataLase in the development of this innovative new machine-identification solution. This important investment compliments our existing line of laser-marking materials, and confirms our commitment in offering high quality technologies to customers, to help them significantly reduce costs and increase productivity.”

Steve Kelly, CEO of DataLase, said, “We foresee great interest in the potential use of this new technology for a variety of applications. By entering into this agreement with Ferro Corporation, we can be confident that this groundbreaking technology will be made available to a much broader market.”

Ferro Corporation produces materials that enhance the performance of products in a broad range of industries, including consumer electronics, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, building and renovation, appliances, automotive, household furnishings and industrial products. More information about Ferro is available at http://www.ferro.com/. For more details about the new product contact Dave Smith, Laser Marking Sales Manager at smithde@ferro.com or 1-724-250-5503.

DataLase, the originator of the award-winning DataLase® process, is a fast growing technology company whose patented process is used in a diverse range of applications including product identification and anti-counterfeiting. The firm’s product range includes specialty solutions for primary and secondary packaging as well as alternatives to print-and-apply labels. More information is available at http://www.datalase.com/ or by email usainfo@datalase.com for US and info@datalase for all other inquiries.

Ferro, TherMark, CerLase Reach Accord

2007-01-31T15:28:00.000-05:00

Ferro, TherMark, CerLase Reach Accord
On Laser Marking Technology

From left: Phil Maitland, Ferro Glass Systems Global marketing & Business Development Manager, Arnaud Hory, Managing Director of CerLase and Paul Harrison, Chairman of TherMark LLC signed cooperative agreement in Limoges, France.

Ferro Corporation of Cleveland, USA, TherMark LLC of Los Angeles, USA and CerLase of Limoges, France have settled a long-standing dispute over the use of patented laser marking technology for ceramics, glass and metals.

In addition to settling their legal claims, the firms completed a cross-licensing agreement that allows all three parties to practice and promote laser marking technology under the applicable patents.

TherMark and Ferro had previously reached an accord with a license agreement in 2004 and this agreement includes CerLase who also hold intellectual property (IP) in laser marking technology. Several years ago all three companies developed materials and processes which enhance or enable lasers to make high-contrast permanent marks on a variety of surfaces.

The new agreement gives Ferro, TherMark and CerLase the ability to market each others products, processes and equipment, without triggering issues concerning patent infringement. Ferro will be the sole and exclusive supplier of TherMark and CerLase materials to worldwide markets, except for certain limited pre-existing licensing agreements. TherMark continues as an authorized distributor of Ferro laser marking materials.

At the signing ceremony in Limoges, Phil Maitland, Ferro Glass Systems Global Marketing & Business Development Manager said, “We believe this is great news for the laser marking industry and will enable us to help develop the market more rapidly to reach its full potential.

“With the intellectual property issues finally resolved, we can all concentrate our resources on delivering the integrated solutions that a vast range of customers are demanding for marking and decorating their products.”

Paul Harrison, Chairman of TherMark and Arnaud Hory, Managing Director of Cerlase added, “We are delighted with this cross-licensing agreement relating to our respective technologies and to have strengthened our relationship with Ferro. The industrial laser marking market has enormous untapped potential and this agreement removes any remaining uncertainties or concerns that the market may have had about dealing with any of us for risk of litigation over patent infringement.”

Laser Marking Materials Survive In Space

2007-01-31T15:01:00.000-05:00

Ferro’s Laser Marking Materials Survive
Four Years In Space, Pass NASA’s Criteria

Part of Ferro Corporation’s Glass Systems business, CerMark Laser Marking materials have successfully survived nearly four years of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) exposure on the exterior of the International Space Station (ISS). CerMark supplied bar code test marks on aluminum and glass, which passed the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) criteria for its Material International Space Station Experiment (MISSE).

“This is a significant achievement for CerMark’s laser marking business and Ferro Corporation as well,” said David Smith, Sales Manager, Laser Marking. “Our products have consistently produced high-quality, durable marks for years – and few products can claim space as a test market. We welcomed the opportunity and are extremely pleased with the results.”

Positioned on the lower portion of the ISS’s airlock chamber, Ferro’s marks were exposed to the experiment’s harshest conditions – receiving the maximum amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and atomic oxidation. Created by radiation from the sun, atomic oxygen is found in the upper atmosphere and is extremely corrosive. The oxygen on earth is a gas formed when two oxygen atoms make up a molecule.

Siemens Symbology Research Center (SRC), NASA’s lead contractor for the MISSE marking experiments, applied various test markings to the samples, including data matrix symbols, human readable characters and line patterns. SRC applied data matrix symbols to the aluminum and glass samples using Ferro’s LMM-6000, the company’s primary laser marking material, and Ferro’s RD-6005, respectively.

NASA used four criteria, including percentage of contrast, axial uniformity, print growth and error correction, for its post-flight evaluation of each mark.

MISSE is a multi-stage experiment designed to establish part identification methods and techniques that might survive the rigors of space. With the advent of reusable space transportation vehicles and satellites, NASA needed to rethink how part identification markings are applied – because marks applied to reusable spacecraft need to survive the extreme environments encountered in space.

However laboratories can simulate just one or two space environmental factors at a time. The only way to test how different materials will perform in space is to test them in that environment.

The research from MISSE will provide the insight needed to develop materials for future spacecraft and will also help researchers make materials and coatings that will last longer on earth.

MISSE 1 and 2, which included CerMark’s marks, intended to orbit for one year while MISSE 3 and 4 would orbit for three. However the recovery effort was delayed due to the tragedy with space shuttle Columbia in 2003.

MISSE 1 and 2 were launched with space shuttle Discovery (STS-105) on August 10, 2001, and astronaut Patrick Forrester positioned them on the outside of the ISS on August 16. Astronaut Stephen Robinson retrieved both on July 30, 2005 after 1,443 days of LEO exposure. MISSE 1 and 2 returned to earth when Discovery (STS-114) landed at Edwards Air Force Base on August 10, 2005.

During this mission, the new MISSE 5 was attached to the ISS for its stay in space as well.

CerMark Laser Marking business markets high-performance laser marking materials for permanent bonded marks on myriad aircraft, automotive and industrial parts and products. When compared to other identification procedures, laser marking provides several advantages including increased durability and speed, personalized or custom marks that can also be used for part identification and serialization, precise marks and localized heating.

CerMark’s laser marking materials can be brushed, sprayed or screen-printed onto a substrate using an airbrush or high-volume low-pressure spray gun. They can also be applied with laser marking tape, which utilizes the same materials. Regardless of application, the material and substrate bond only where the laser touches to create marks in a range of colors including red, black, blue, bronze and green. The excess laser marking material is removed to reveal the mark.
Ferro Glass Systems manufactures and markets an extensive variety of glass coating products for the automotive, architectural and container glass industries. It is the worldwide leader and supplier of ceramic and lead-free enamels and conductive paste for the automotive industry and lead-free enamels for architectural spandrels. It was the first firm to introduce lead-free enamels for spandrels and encouraged US glass manufacturers to switch to these environmentally preferred enamels. Glass Systems is leading the way for the adoption of organic, heavy-metal-free inks and coatings in the glass container industry. For more information, visit the company Web site at www.ferro.com.

CerMark Introduces Improved Laser Marking Tape

2006-08-25T14:54:00.000-05:00

CerMarkTM Laser Marking materials has introduced a new and improved LMM-6018 laser marking tape for metal. This tape produces sharper, smoother marks with better definition than our old LMM-6018 tape. The marks are also blacker when used at the same power settings that the old tape was used at.

The improved product is the result of CerMark’ ongoing research and development to make continuous improvements in laser marking tape. The new tape is currently being offered to all current CerMark tape customers. We are always trying to improve the markings while at the same time, reducing the laser power needed for this product.

Like the spray, brush or screen-printed applications of the CerMark metal marking materials, the tape creates a durable, high contrast black marking that is highly resistant to acids, bases, solvents and chemicals. Regardless of the application, the marking tape and substrate bond only where the laser touches. The excess laser marking tape material is peeled off and removed to reveal the mark.

For more information, contact Dave Smith at smithde@ferro.com, or (724) 250-5503. To place an order call Wanda McDowell in customer service at 800-245-4951, extension 5167.

Laser Markable Paints

2006-06-01T09:36:00.000-05:00

A new option exists for marking on painted surfaces without compromising the integrity of the paint. Painting an object generally serves two purposes. The paint obviously acts in a decorative fashion, but it can also be on an object to protect it from weathering. Direct laser marking on paint can often damage the integrity of the paint layer, which will detract from its ability to protect.

CerMark now offers laser markable paint that can be marked using very low powers, which allows marking without damage to the paint layer. The paint come in an aerosol for for easy application. Machine readable marks can be made on a 45 watt CO2 using less than 10% power at 100% writing speed. (see photo at right) This allows a person to mark a painted item without damaging the paint.

For more information about this product, please contact smithde@ferro.com or weirs@ferro.com.

Mr. Science

CerMark's Upcoming Events

2006-05-24T15:50:00.000-05:00

We will be visiting a few more tradeshows and events this year. Some are awards and engraving related, others pertain more to marking for identification or serialization. If you have the opportunity, you might want to visit some of these events as well. I have listed them below:

USCG 2-D Bar Coding Symposium
U.S. Coast Guard ARSC
Elizabeth City, NC
June 8th
(Dave and I will be exhibiting)
Registration is available online at:
http://www.wliinc2.com/cgi/foxweb.dll/wlx/cal/wlxprofile?caleid=190&cc=ECACC

IMAI Awards Show
Long Beach, CA
July 20th, 21st
(Dave will be attending)
http://www.marking-id.org/

IMTS
Chicago IL.
Sept 6th to 13th.
(Dave and Dennis will be attending, TherMark exhibiting)
http://www.imts.com

UID Forum
Dallas, TX
Sept. 12th, 13th
(probably not attending)
http://www.uidforum.com/

ALAC
Detroit, MI
Sept. 18th to 21st
(we may attend)
www.alac-iluc.org

EuroTrophex
Maastricht, Netherlands
October 14th - 16th
(we want to exhibit)
http://82.112.120.133/eurotrophex/

GlassTec
Dusseldorf, Germany
Oct. 24th to 28th
(Ferro exhibiting, we will attend)
http://www.glasstec-online.com/

If you want to go to any of these shows, let Dave know at smithde@ferro.com and he can help you get registered.

Sean

New LMM-6000 Cans - Part Three!

2006-05-12T09:13:00.000-05:00

We have a new batch of cans in stock now, and we think we've addressed all of the previous issues with the old cans. These cans have a new and improved valving system in them, so the problems with leaking around the nozzle should be eliminated. If you have an old can you can still use it, but you may need to take some of the steps outlined in my previous post of January 30th. Again, the material's performance is unchanged. This can will still provide the same dark, black, high contrast mark as before because the active ingredients are still the same.

Sean

To order a new can, please call Wanda at
(800) 245-4951, ext. 5167

Engraving Etc. Website

2006-04-05T08:40:00.000-05:00

I met Harvey Lentchner out in Las Vegas at the ARA show and he told me about his website, Engraving Etc. This site is an online resource for the awards and engraving industry. It offers discussion forums on all types of topics related to the industry including tools and equipment, industry news, software, glass etching and sandblasting, dye sub and imaging, FAQ's, and engraving tips and tricks. It also has an advertising section where you can place an ad. I did a keyword search and found that there were almost 500 posts on the site that had "CerMark" in them. Wow! I think the site is a great resource, if you are interested it is located at www.engravingetc.org

Mr. Science

ARA Show Report

2006-03-31T11:19:00.000-05:00

We're back from the ARA Show in Las Vegas and I think it was a great success. We displayed some of our latest work and new products and generated quite a bit of interest. Many people were interested in our multi-color images that we produced with the CerMark glass and ceramic marking materials. These images were produced by taking a standard JPG image and using Paint Shop Pro to split the image into the C, M, Y, and K color separations. The separations were then used to make the marks. One of the CerMark
colors was applied and then marked using one of
the separations, then the tile was washed off. Then another color was applied, marked with a different separation, and washed off. This produces a multi-color image like the ones you can see on the tiles in the picture at the right. We also met with a company that is making some very nice multi-color images using our marking materials. Atomic Art Images is producing some very good images that you can take a look at in their galleries at: http://www.atomicartimages.com

We have also updated all of our technical literature for 2006. If anyone would like a CD with our updated info, or if you have any questions about making multi-colored marks like those you see here, contact Dave or myself at smithde@ferro.com or weirs@ferro.com.

Mr. Science

LMM-6000 Aerosol Can - Problems with Spray Valve

2006-01-30T09:54:00.000-05:00

The LMM-6000 Aerosol Can package has in the past been known to clog or spit during normal usage. These issues were related to the material settling in the bottom of the can. The settled material could be sucked into the nozzle and valve system of the can, as seen to the right, causing a clog. The LMM-6000 Aerosol Can has been reformulated to correct this issue, and the settling has been largely eliminated.

Some users may still experience clogging of the LMM-6000 can. Our testing has determined that this may be due to a problem with the valve used on the can. The gasket in the valve may not completely seal, causing leakage to occur. If it occurs, the leakage can be seen under the nozzle, in the metal cup, as seen at below right. The gasket problem can cause clogging and leaking of the can.

To help prevent this condition, we recommend a thorough cleaning of the nozzle and valve after each use of the can. The nozzle should be removed from the can and cleaned with warm water. The can valve should also be cleaned well with warm water to remove all traces of LMM-6000 material. Spinning the nozzle slightly while removing and inserting into the can valve will also help loosen any dried material that could cause clogging. Keeping the valve and nozzle system clean should allow continued use of the LMM-6000 Aerosol Can.

Additional Information

Questions about properties of this product, application techniques or laser settings can be directed to:

Dave Smith (724) 250-5503
Marketing Manager

Sean Weir (724) 229-5161
R&D and Technical Service

Wanda McDowell (800) 245-4951, ext. 5167
Customer Service - Orders

CerMark to Exhibit at the ARA Show in Las Vegas

2006-01-10T09:13:00.000-05:00

Ferro Corporation will be exhibiting at the ARA Show in Las Vegas on March 2nd through March 4th, 2006. The Awards and Recognition Association (ARA) is a membership organization of 4,000 companies dedicated to increasing the professionalism of recognition specialists and advancing the awards and engraving industry. We will have an exhibit space displaying metal, glass and ceramic objects laser marked using CerMark Laser Marking Materials. Dave and I will be available during the show to answer your questions about using our products, the applications of our products, and to give you pointers on obtaining the best results with the marking materials. We will also be planning on giving a 20 minute "Quick Tip" seminar on the show floor that will demonstrate the use of our products. If you are a professional working in the awards and engraving industry, this is a show you need to attend. Hope to see you there!

Mr. Science

To learn more about the ARA, or to download the show brochure, visit www.ara.org

CerMark Laser Marks Survive The Rigors of Outer Space!!!

2005-12-06T14:22:00.000-05:00

Ferro Corp.'s CerMark laser marking materials have survived nearly four years of Low Earth Orbit exposure on the exterior of the International Space Station. CerMark supplied bar code test marks on aluminum and glass, passing NASA's criteria for its Material International Space Station Experiment (MISSE). MISSE was a multi-stage experiment designed to establish part identification methods and techniques that might survive the rigors of space.

On the lower portion of the ISS airlock chamber, the marks were exposed to the experiment's harshest conditions, receiving the maximum amount of UV radiation and atomic oxidation. Post-flight, NASA evaluated each mark based on percentage of contrast, axial uniformity, print growth and error correction. The marks passed all of NASA's test criteria, grading no lower than a "B" on all of the markings.

"This is a significant achievement for CerMark's laser marking business and Ferro Corporation as well," said David Smith, sales manager, Laser Marking. "Our products have consistently produced high-quality, durable marks for years -- and few products can claim space as a test market. We welcomed the opportunity and are extremely pleased with the results."

For more information about CerMark's laser marking materials or the MISSE experiment, please contact Dave Smith at (800) 245-4951, ext. 5503, or at smithde@ferro.com

LMM-6000 Aerosol Cans Ready To Go.....

2005-11-14T16:06:00.000-05:00

The new CerMark LMM-6000 Laser Marking Spray cans are now available again. This new package has been reformulated to prevent clogging and spitting issues you may have experienced before when using the aerosol cans. The new cans won't clog or spit, and spray performance has been improved. A new nozzle and propellant combination will provide a better spray pattern with more efficiency than the old can. The material's performance is unchanged. You will still get the same dark, black, high contrast mark as you achieved before with the old cans, or even with the LMM-6000 paste. All of the active ingredients are still the same, so you can now make the same high quality marks you need with an easier to use package.

To order a new can, please call Wanda at

(800) 245-4951, ext. 5167

Lining Up Marks - Part Two

2005-09-21T15:44:00.000-05:00

Another technique we've found useful when lining up artwork or marks on an object is the use of black paper. Black paper is actually pretty hard to find in a store, so we make our own with a photocopier. If you run off some copies with the cover of the copier open and nothing in it, the copies will come out black. You can then use small pieces of this paper to test out the size of your markings. If you run the laser at a low power and a fast write speed, this will etch off the black ink and leave your image on the paper in white. You may have to experiment a little to get the settings just right. This can be a pretty handy tool for testing whether or not a particular design or mark will fit into a certain space on an object.

Finding the Right Power Setting

2005-08-15T15:23:00.000-05:00

Working in the laser industry, I often field questions about proper power and speed settings. These questions are often difficult to answer as there are numerous variables that must be considered when seeking the proper settings. The type of substrate, thickness of the substrate, and laser wattage all factor into what settings will properly mark the material. For instance, aluminum conducts energy much better than steel, a thicker substrate will remove energy much faster than a thinner one, and a higher power laser can deliver more energy than a lower power laser. So what is the magic equation that crunches these variables into a perfect power and speed setting?

Well, in short, there is no equation that can calculate the perfect setting. But, there is a method which will allow you to quickly and efficiently determine a proper power and speed setting for any type of substrate you choose to mark. The key is to make a power/speed grid.

First, obtain a piece of your substrate, spray it with your marking material and focus it in your laser. (A scrap piece of the substrate is best, if possible, because you will ruin it making the grid).

Next, design a varying power/speed grid. For example, on stainless steel:

Steel 100P/50S
Steel 100P/40S
Steel 100P/30S
Steel 100P/20S
Steel 100P/10S

In this grid, P stands for % Power and S stands for % Speed. Adjust your lasers settings to match your selected colors and mark the substrate.

After you have marked the object, you should observe a variation of marks. They should range from barely visible to a slight destruction of the substrate. Pick a pair of settings that give a durable mark of the appropriate color that also maximizes your lasing speed.

Using this method first, when marking a substrate for the first time, can save you time and money. You are sure to only waste one piece of your substrate while quickly finding the optimum settings for the marking you need to do.

If you are using a lower power laser, i.e. 25 or 30 watts, and having trouble marking certain substrates, here is another tip. You can increase your Dots Per Inch (DPI) and deliver more energy to the surface of the substrate. Most lasers have a default setting of 500 DPI, but can be increased to 1000 DPI.

-LaserStud

CerMark Laser Marks Return From Space!

2005-08-11T08:21:00.000-05:00

DPM Data Matrix Samples Retrieved from ISS

The following is condensed from the August 2005 UID Newsletter, published monthly by Acuity CiMatrix. This article was written by Don Roxby of the RVSI Symbology Research Center, Huntsville AL.

Prior to the Space Shuttle Program, space-borne vehicles were expended; consequently their part identifiers were applied using marking processes designed for use in ground operations. With the advent of reusable space transportation vehicles and satellites, NASA needed to rethink how part identification markings were applied. Markings applied to reusable spacecraft need to survive the extreme enviroments encountered in space.

To support this new requirement, NASA approached RVSI to assist with a marking program to certify marking(s) for use in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). An experiment was designed to identify part identification methods and techniques that will survive the rigors of space. The experiment was to be designed to expose human and machine-readable markings to LEO environments. These include, but are not limited to, vacuum, solar UV radiation, micrometeoroids and space debris, atomic oxygen (AO) and deep thermal cycles. Working with the Boeing Phantom Works, RVSI Acuity CiMatrix’s Symbology Research Center applied markings to test coupons made of materials commonly utilized in the construction of the external components used on space transportation vehicles, satellites and space stations.

The test coupons consisted of 26 one-inch diameter disks, a 1-1/2-inch by 6-inch bar and a 4-inch square beta cloth blanket with fastener holes. The coupons were marked with labels, stenciled (additive) markings and direct markings applied using a wide range of different methods and techniques. (Note: CerMark's laser marking materials were a part of this test series) The material test coupons were then affixed to spaces provided on test panels, which were attached to the International Space Station (ISS) during a space walk conducted during the STS-105 Mission flown on August 10, 2001. The panels were positioned on the ISS so that they to could expect to receive the maximum amount of impact damage and exposure to a high degree of AO and UV radiation.

The experiments were recovered early during the STS-114 mission by Astronaut Stephen Robinson on July 30, 2005 when an opportunity presented itself during his record breaking six hours, fifty minute space walk. They were returned to earth on August 9, 2005. The marked coupons will be taken RVSI Acuity CiMatrix's Symbology Research Center where they will undergo a series of decoding tests designed to qualify identification processes for future retrievable spacecraft and satellites. Data from this in-orbit experiment will be added to NASA and military part marking standards.

For more information, contact Don Roxby droxby@rvsi.net , or visit www.uidsupport.com/newsletter/august_news/in_this_issue0508.htm

What is Unique Identification (UID)?

2005-08-04T08:20:00.000-05:00

The following is condensed from the UID support webpage, www.uidsupport.com, which is maintained by the RVSI Symbology Research Center.

Laser bonding and marking are MIL spec methods for meeting the requirements of UID.

UID is a new globally unique "part identifier" containing data elements used to track DoD parts through their life cycle.

UID Data is encoded into Data Matrix symbols that are applied to parts using Direct Part Marking processes (DPM). The DoD has moved to this transformation technology to facilitate electronic data capture and transmission.

UID is a mandatory DoD requirement for all solicitations issued on or after Jan. 1, 2004. The DoD Download --- The DoD Guide to UID - Version 1.5 requires the application of Data Matrix symbols to parts in the following categories:

• Costs over $5,000.
• Serially managed.
• Mission essential.
• Controlled inventory.
• A consumable item or material where permanent identification is necessary.

For more information, visit http://www.uidsupport.com/

Lining up a mark on an object

2005-08-02T12:42:00.000-05:00

When marking with CerMark LMM-6000 or 6038, we use a useful technique here in the lab to help us line up our marks. To test the position of the mark, the LMM can first be discolored using very low power without bonding it to the metal. For example, if using a 35 watt laser, you can run the mark at about 10% power and 100% speed to see its position. The LMM will be discolored on the surface, but it won't be bonded to the metal. If the positioning is correct, you can then mark normally at 100% power and your usual marking speed. This can be very helpful in lining up an image on an odd shaped part.

Note: Be careful not to use too much power when trying this, if you bond any LMM to the part it will be very difficult to remove it without ruining the piece. It is better to start off too low in power than too high.

Sean

LMM-6000 Frequently asked questions

2005-08-01T13:52:00.000-05:00

LMM-6000 is CerMark's laser marking material for metals.

Q. How do I apply LMM-6000?

We recommend that LMM-6000 be applied by spraying directly onto the substrate to be marked. LMM-6000 can also be applied by brushing or painting, but care must be taken to ensure that an even coat is applied. Any variation in the coating such as brush marks may translate into variation in the final mark appearance. Spraying will give you the best results and the most evenly applied coating.

Q. How much LMM-6000 do I apply?

You should apply only enough LMM-6000 to hide the metal surface. Applying more LMM-6000 will result in having to use more laser power to create marks; it will not make the marks darker.

Q. How do I thin LMM-6000?

LMM-6000 can be thinned with denatured alcohol, ethanol, acetone or methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). Add the thinner to the LMM-6000 and stir or shake thoroughly. Isopropyl alcohol should be avoided.

Q. How much thinner do I need?

LMM-6000 can be used as is for brushing but should be thinned as needed to apply by spray. We recommend a maximum thinning ratio of 1 part LMM-6000 to 1 part ethanol for spraying. Ethanol can also be added to help aid in brushing, it will help brush marks flow out. MEK and acetone are stronger solvents; therefore less thinner will be needed when using these solvents.

Q. How do I clean LMM-6000 off of the metal?

LMM-6000 can be cleaned using plain water.

Q. What metals does LMM-6000 work on?

LMM-6000 has been tested on stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper, nickel, silver, and titanium. LMM-6000 will not work on metals that have a coating or protective clear lacquer.

Q. How long will the marks last? How tough are they?

Marks made with LMM-6000 are permanent. Marks made with LMM-6000 are generally considered as tough as the metal they are made on. Physical testing has shown them to be resistant to many common strong acids, bases, organic solvents and extreme heat or cold. LMM-6000 also has good salt spray resistance, scratch resistance and QUV resistance.

Q. How high or thick are the marks?

Marks made with LMM-6000 have been examined by a scanning electron microscope and have been found to be approximately 10 microns, or 0.0004 inches (0.4 mil) high.

Q. Can I reuse LMM-6000?

LMM-6000 should not used if it has dried out. LMM-6000 also should not be reused by washing it off of a part and respraying the washed off material. Reused LMM-6000 will not produce a high quality mark. Performance characteristics will also be affected.

Q. What kind of laser do I need?

LMM-6000 can be used with CO2, YAG, or Fiber laser marking systems.

Q. How much power should I use?

The power settings that LMM-6000 will work best at vary depending on the laser being used. For example, with a 35 watt CO2 laser, marking on stainless steel requires the use of 100% power at a write speed of 4-8 inches per second. Marking on aluminum requires 100% power at a write speed of 1-4 inches per second with the same laser. A more powerful laser will be able to make the same mark using less power or writing faster. Also, aluminum, copper, brass and other soft, heat conductive metals require higher powers and slower writing speeds. These metals will conduct heat away from the marking area faster than steel, thus requiring more heat (power) to make a mark. Your power settings will vary depending on the laser used and the substrate being marked, so some experimentation may be necessary to achieve the best mark.

Q. Does LMM-6000 work on glass?

No. LMM-6000 is not to be used on glass surfaces. It is designed to work only on metal surfaces. CerMark also offers the LMC series products for laser marking on glass and ceramic substrates.

Q. Will LMM-6000 work on coated metals?

No. If the metal has a protective coating on it, the coating must be removed before it can be marked. The protective coating will interfere with LMM-6000’s ability to bond to the surface of the metal.

Q. Will LMM-6000 work on anodized metals?

LMM-6000 has generally been found to not work on anodized metals, but in some cases satisfactory results have been reported. We recommend experimentation if possible to determine if LMM-6000 will work in your particular application. The CerMark LMM-12, LMM-6046 and LMM-6018 tape can be used on anodized surfaces.

Q. How many marks can I get from 500 grams of LMM-6000?

When thinned and used as recommended, 500 grams of LMM-6000 should provide approximately 6000 square inches of coverage. The number of marks you can make will depend on the size of the mark and how much material you apply to the substrate.

Q. Can I get blacker marks with a thicker coat of LMM-6000?

No. Additional LMM-6000 film thickness will only result in more power being needed to make a mark; it will not make the marks any darker.

Q. What other colors for metal are currently available?

Currently we only offer a black mark on metal substrates. Research efforts are underway to develop additional colors for metal.

Any other questions, give me a call.....

Sean

(724) 229-5161

Verifying Laser Marks

2005-05-17T13:39:00.000-05:00

Machine-readable identification holds the key
to manufacturing efficiency

The following is condensed from an article by Chris Davis, vice president of DAPRA Marking Systems, from the April 2005 issue of Industrial Laser Solutions.

Machine-readable identification is quickly becoming a trend throughout many industry sectors, and is used to automatically identify a variety of products. Manufacturers are marking parts with machine-readable, permanent, two-dimensional (2D) data matrix codes that are placed directly on the part itself. The part can then be tracked throughout its entire life cycle, including the manufacturing and supply chain operations. This is called Direct Part Mark Identification (DPMI) or Auto-ID.

DPMI enables manufacturers to improve manufacturing process performance, identify quality defects through in-service tracking, eliminate manual part data-entry errors, support data logging and automated data collection, increase yields and reduce the direct and indirect costs of manufacturing. Many manufacturers also rely on Auto-ID to track high-value parts to prevent theft or counterfeiting, identify parts for maintenance and returns and to resolve any warranty issues and liability claims.

Common application methods are laser, dot peen and electro-chemical etch. For laser-produced marks, IAQG quality metrics measure the following parameters to determine if a 2D mark is acceptable, and assign a grade based upon the following factors: cell shape, contrast level between the marking and its substrate or cell fill of 60-105% of the nominal cell size.

Verification is an excellent real-time method to keep the marking operation in control and to standard, thus helping manufacturers improve their processes through direct part marking.

Click here to read the full article online.