Product category:
Laser marking systems
News Release from: HK Technologies | Subject: BenchMark laser marker
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 13 February 2006
Benchtop fibre laser marker costs 30%
less
With a footprint some 60% less than previous models a compact fibre laser powered laser marking unit is also 30% cheaper and can be sited easily on any convenient bench top.
UK laser marking system manufacturer, HK Technologies, is using the UK's MACH 2006 exhibition to launch its new compact BenchMark laser marker, which is based on the latest innovation to sweep the industry - fiber laser technology The use of a solid state fiber laser source within the new BenchMark model is a first for HK and offers potential users numerous benefits, such as round-the-clock, maintenance-free operation
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 12 Sep 2002 at 8.00am (UK)
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Whereas conventional lamp or diode-based laser markers require periodical replacement of non-serviceable parts such as diode bars, there are no such costs associated with fiber laser technology, which offers far higher life expectancy - in the region of 100,000h minimum.
This new technology also presents far lower running costs to the customer thanks to its high efficiency performance.
As a result, BenchMark is powered by a standard single phase 240V supply (drawing approximately 6A) and is air cooled using integral fans.
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Conversely, other solid state or gas-based laser marking systems traditionally require three-phase supply and are water cooled.
Designed, developed and built at HK's dedicated production facility in Rugby, UK.
BenchMark is ideal for manufacturers looking to introduce unique part identification, branding and traceability into their processes.
The system deploys HK's in-house developed EasiMark laser marking software.
This simple-to-use package has been proven across more than 200 UK installations, allowing manufacturers to create a multitude of different marks to suit requirements, including barcode, data matrix and a host of other marks (as small as 0.5mm), quickly and reliably.
If required, EasiMark can be linked to existing databases to simplify information retrieval.
Any company with part marking requirements should consider BenchMark to produce high quality permanent marks on all metal and most plastic components.
All shapes can be accommodated, even those featuring curved surfaces.
BenchMark also comes with an optional rotary axis so that components requiring marks on multiple faces can be finished complete in a single set-up.
The process is also extremely environmentally friendly: no chemicals are used and no waste products are generated.
Visitors to stand 5357 in Hall 5 at MACH06, taking place at the Birmingham NEC from 15-19 May 2006, will be able to see BenchMark in action performing a number of working demonstrations.
With a footprint some 60% less than previous generation models (80% less volumetric footprint), this compact unit can be sited easily on any convenient bench top.
The price of BenchMark is some 30% less than previous models representing a significant capital cost reduction and bringing laser marking process technology to sectors and companies to which prices may have rendered it prohibitive.
Such has been the interest in the new machine that HK has already taken advance orders for BenchMark from European customers.
As standard, BenchMark will be offered in 10W and 20W versions, although machines can be custom built to suit customer requirements such as automation, workholding or integration into existing OEM production facilities.
Joint managing director of HK Technologies, Nigel Bunt, says: "This latest development provides HK with an extension to our Laser Marking portfolio, which in addition to our new BenchMark fiber laser, compliments our lamp and diode pump systems.
BenchMark now means we have a solution for all laser marking requirements that will enable us to provide our customers with the best laser marking solutions." * HK Technologies at MACH 2006, NEC, Birmingham, UK, May 15-19, Hall 5, Stand 5357.
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