Engraving

How does it work & what can I do with it?

Mechanical engraving machinery

Gravograph M20 photo engraving system

Today thanks to advances in technology and computer software, most engraving machines are controlled by some form of personal computer or PDA. This has allowed engraving machines to be purchased by people that might otherwise had to understand much more about the process and how to make it work on a repeatable basis, plus it has also contributed to systems being able to produce high quality work for a relatively low capital investment.

Traditionally, mechanical engraving machines use a specially hardened drill to cut the material that is being engraved. These drills are available in a range of sizes and can be used to create different surface textures and finishes.

Pen engraving with Gravograph engraving systemsMost modern engraving systems can have accessories fitted that allow them to personalise non-flat products such as pens or other larger cylindrical items such as trophies and other similar items used in the awards and recognition industry.

Twin head mug heat transfer press

To help with setup of the engraving machine, some of the better systems such as those manufactured by a French company called Gravograph, offer laser beams to help with product positioning.




Laser engraving systems

A laser engraver differs fundamentally from a traditional mechanical engraving system. Laser engraving is the practice of using lasers to engrave or mark an object.

The technique does not involve using drill bits found in traditional machines which contact the engraving surface and as a result, wear out as cutting is now taken care of by a laser beam. This is considered an advantage over mechanical engraving systems where drill heads have to be replaced on a regular basis. Laser engraving machines are very quiet to operate and as such can be located almost anywhere within your business premises.

Gravograph laser engraving system

Laser engraving is the ideal solution for marking, engraving or even cutting a wide variety of materials such as coated metals, glass, plastic, wood, acrylic, leather and much more.

The power of a laser engraving system is measured in watts and most CO2 based units will have a power level between 30 to 80 watts.

 

If you would like more information on engraving systems, please feel free to ask us for a recommendation, or contact Gravograph UK directly on +44 (0)1926 884433.