Laser Photonics’ non-contact marking tool can be to identify and prevent counterfeiting of catalytic converters and other car parts.
ORLANDO, Fla.—A global developer of industrial laser systems has brought to market a handheld part marker that is said to meet rising demand for efficient laser-based marking technology in the automotive industry.
The MarkStar Handheld VIN Marking Laser 1050, recently introduced by Laser Photonics Corporation (LPC), is specially designed as a safe, reliable marking tool for the auto industry. The non-contact marker can be used easily by vehicle manufacturing and sales professionals for on-the-fly marking of catalytic converters and other car parts, LPC said in a release.
The automotive industry increasingly requires a cost-effective and time-efficient method for tracing valuable components and parts, whether they are installed in new vehicles, recycled, resold, or disposed of at end of their service life. Automotive part marking and traceability begins by applying a unique identifier onto a product. That identifier is linked to a database that enables tracking of the product through its entire life cycle.
“Part traceability streamlines production processes, assisting with potential assembly issues and regulatory requirements, aiding safety data logging and minimizing recall costs,” said Wayne Tupuola, CEO of Laser Photonics, in the release. “With the MarkStar Handheld VIN, we are prepared to make an even larger contribution to creating a safer, cleaner and more sustainable future.”
In recent years, legislators in various states have joined law enforcement, manufacturers, and sellers to find a solution to catalytic converter theft. Recently, California legislation mandating the permanent marking of catalytic converters for dealers and retail sellers became effective. Arizona and Maine have been considering legislation requiring permanent marking of vehicle parts, though legislation has yet to be passed. These efforts reflect the heightened demand for effective marking solutions in the automotive industry, according to the release.
The automotive industry holds a large and growing set of applications for laser marking. Applications range from barcode marking and direct part marking to serial number marking, OCR coding, lot coding, and UDI and UID marking. They also include texturizing, paint ablation, and coating removal.
The MarkStar Handheld VIN system is reportedly capable of deep marking to light engraving. It provides users with permanent marking that withstands wear and tear, LPC said in the release.
The product also features a narrow processing chamber, said to make marking “easy even in hard-to-access areas.” In addition to creating markings that can identify parts, the MarkStar VIN can be used to promote a brand, prevent counterfeiting, and meet quality standards and regulations, the company said.
According to the release, the MarkStar VIN requires no consumables other than power, and no routine part replacements, All LPC MarkStar models, offered in various configurations, are reportedly flexible on inputs, require little to no maintenance, and are easy to use on multiple materials. These materials are reported to include coated metals, uncoated metals, silicon, rubber, wood, plastics, and thermoplastics. They also span graphite, acrylic, fabrics, leather, composites, ceramics, and marble.
Laser Photonics describes itself as “a vertically integrated manufacturer and R&D Center of Excellence for industrial laser technologies and systems.” The company focuses on surface cleaning, rust removal, corrosion control, de-painting, and other laser-based industrial applications.