Polycarbonate Laser Marking

Achieving Superior Clarity and Contrast

Exceptional optical clarity preservation
High-contrast mark visibility
Superior environmental durability
Transparent & colored grades

Why Polycarbonate?

200x Stronger than glass
100% Clarity retention
-40°C To +150°C range
∞ Mark permanence

Achieving High-Contrast Marks

One of the most sought-after outcomes in polycarbonate laser marking is creating marks with exceptional contrast that remain clearly visible under varying lighting conditions and viewing angles.

COâ‚‚ laser systems excel at creating high-contrast marks on polycarbonate through controlled surface modification. The laser energy causes localized melting and foaming of the material surface, creating a white or light-colored mark that provides excellent light-scattering properties.

Visible in All Lighting Conditions
Multiple Viewing Angles
Clear & Transparent Materials
UV Resistant Marks

Clarity Preservation Features

Optical Clarity

Maintaining transparency while creating visible marks is crucial in automotive, aerospace, and electronics where optical properties cannot be compromised.

Surface Marking

Creates frosted or white appearance through microscopic surface texturing that scatters light while leaving bulk material optically clear.

Internal Engraving

Subsurface marking creates marks within the material volume without disrupting either surface, perfect for protective applications.

Precision Control

Advanced laser parameters enable marks that remain highly visible while limiting thermal effects to only marked regions.

Durability

Marks withstand UV radiation, temperature cycling, chemical contact, and mechanical wear while maintaining contrast.

Versatility

Works with clear, colored, UV-stabilized, and flame-retardant polycarbonate grades for diverse applications.

Industry-Specific Applications

Automotive Lighting

Headlights, tail lights, and instrument panels

Polycarbonate has largely replaced glass in automotive headlight lenses and tail light assemblies. Laser marking enables precise placement of required regulatory information without affecting light transmission or creating visual artifacts.

Regulatory Compliance Optical Performance UV Resistance

Medical Equipment

Device housings and laboratory instruments

The medical industry extensively uses polycarbonate for device housings, fluid containers, and diagnostic equipment. Laser marking withstands repeated sterilization cycles including autoclaving and chemical disinfection.

Sterilization Safe FDA Compliant Traceability

Safety Equipment

Protective gear and barriers

Safety glasses, face shields, protective barriers, and riot shields utilize polycarbonate for impact resistance. Laser marking applies certification marks without compromising protective properties.

Impact Resistant Permanent ID No Stress Points

Consumer Electronics

Smartphones, tablets, and accessories

Smartphone cases, tablet covers, and display windows incorporate laser-marked polycarbonate for brand identification and regulatory markings. Technology enables crisp logo reproduction and detailed graphics.

Brand Protection Fine Details Aesthetic Quality

Material Grade Considerations

UV-Stabilized PC

Outdoor applications benefit from UV-stabilized grades that prevent yellowing. May require parameter adjustment for optimal contrast.

Flame-Retardant PC

Contains brominated or phosphorus-based compounds. Produces distinct mark colors and may require specialized parameters.

Clear Polycarbonate

Produces white or frosted marks with excellent contrast. Ideal for applications requiring transparency and mark visibility.

Colored Grades

Light-colored polycarbonates achieve good contrast with appropriate laser parameters. Dark colors may need higher energy.

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Scott Sabreen
President & Chief Engineer
30+ Years of Expertise

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