How Can Laser Marking be Used to Add Barcodes?
Fiber lasers are used throughout many industries for the marking of a wide variety of materials. One such application is the addition of surface marks which are still visible after the final product is finished, one such example of this are barcodes. In our latest question and answer, we examine “How can laser marking be used to add barcodes?”

An example of a barcode marking, as seen on a can of coca cola
How do fiber lasers add barcodes?
Marking is a standard application of SPI’s fiber laser range. The fiber laser is simply programmed to mark in the precise area of the material, which requires a barcode. This is usually a surface-level mark but can on occasions even be a deeper engraving. Power and duration can be varied to achieve the perfect barcode required for each job.
Barcodes can be marked on a range of metals such as aluminium, brass, copper and steel, etc. Numerous other materials can be barcode marked too including carbon compounds, ceramics, plastics, etc.
What Similar marks can be added?
Other similar marks, which can be added through fiber lasers include:
- QR Codes – a QR code is similar to a barcode. Whilst barcodes only hold information horizontally, QR codes hold information both vertically and horizontally. QR codes can be marked in the same way as barcodes
- VIN marking – this is the marking of a vehicle identification number, this is used in the automotive industry primarily to uniquely identify a vehicle. This and other similar serial numbers can be added as marks
Related reading
Also, read the following articles, which relate closely to this topic:
- Raised marking
- Black and white QR code mark on mirrored stainless steel
- Marking FR4 on Printed Circuit Boards
Contact SPI Lasers to solve barcode marking problems
If you need to mark barcodes or similar types of code SPI Lasers can help. Our range of fiber lasers are perfect for marking, engraving, drilling and a range of other tasks. Speak to our experts today by contacting SPI Lasers, we can tailor a solution, which will exactly match your needs.
Laser trials can be arranged, so “try before you buy”. We are only a phone call away, so simply contact us to buy a widely-diverse fiber laser. Click this link to subscribe for future updates.
Image Credit: Wikipedia