Laser Direct-Part Marking of Data Matrix Barcodes on the Surface of Metal Alloy Material

Abstract

The influences of laser processing parameters on the symbol contrast and surface roughness of Data Matrix barcodes were studied by single factor experiments using a Q-switched lamp pumped Nd:YAG laser. The orthogonal experiments were carried out to further study the relationship between laser parameters and surface roughness. Multivariate nonlinear regression analyses were performed based on the orthogonal experimental results and a mathematical relationship between parameters and surface roughness was established. The results show that the change trend of surface roughness is similar to symbol contrast with the increase of laser parameters. Both the average power and two different overlaps are important factors affecting the surface roughness and symbol contrast. But the current intensity has an insignificant impact on the surface roughness. The developed regression model can be used to predict the roughness of Data Matrix barcodes. This study can improve industrial application of laser direct part marking technology on titanium alloy substrates.