Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/747414
A&E DECEMBER 2016 • a-e-mag.com 19 Laser Engraving an item, product or substrate, there is no going back. So for those who engrave a customer's own products, there is always some sort of inherent risk involved. At our shop, we have a drawer full of hard educational evidence including assorted coffee mugs, beer steins, desk accesso- ries and even iPads that we have had to replace due to unexpected results. After inspecting the metal watch backs, I suggested to the client that there was no magical way of removing the existing engraving. The previous engraving was completed using either an Nd:YAG or fiber laser, and the graphics in question were black, also known as annealed. Annealing is comprised of laser marking the metal surface and forcing the carbon in the metal to rise to the surface. The result is typically a smooth dark mark, which is only about 2 to 3 microns below the surface. The client asked if we could just sand off the laser marked graphics. While this is actually possible using sandpaper, trying to match the existing metal finish The previous engraved graphics were completed using an Nd:YAG or fiber laser. Have a service or product to sell? For A&E Marketplace advertising inquiries, call 800.669.0424 www.LaserBits.com 800.733.7705 ALDER WOOD • Solid American wood • Large frame area • Ideal for laser engraving or UV inkjet printing Laser Engraved PHOTO FRAMES UV Inkjet Printed