Laser engraving on glass: how it works and what you can expect

Laser engraving on glass is often used to personalize objects such as bottles, cups, glasses and much more.

In this article we will talk about the types of glass suitable for laser engraving, the processing methods available and how to prepare the digital file to be sent to the machine for the best performance.

Types of glass suitable for laser engraving

The type of laser suitable for engraving on glass works with CO2, often used for flat surfaces such as glass plates, mirrors or conical and round-shaped surfaces (as in the case of glasses and bottles). 

It is important to know that glass contains lead, an element that makes laser processing more difficult since it increases the strength of the glass, which if put under stress could break or crack during processing. 

The amount of lead inside the glass can vary depending on the quality of the material. 

For example, if we buy cheap glasses, the percentage of lead is likely to be lower than blown glass or crystal glasses.

Working on glass

It is possible to obtain different effects and results depending on the technique you intend to use. Let's look at the different types together.

Use of paper to cover the surface

This technique is used to avoid the incision area and obtain a white and transparent trace.

Procedure

Before starting the machine, place a layer of damp paper (preferably a napkin) on the glass, and spread it on the area so that it adheres to it. 

Then deactivate the "Air" function to prevent the paper from drying out during processing. 

Do not worry about paper residues, once the engraving is finished these will be easily removable and will not leave traces. 

Application tape

This solution is an alternative to paper towel and is applied according to the same procedure. However, unlike the white track, in this case the colour of the process will be light grey and more opaque. 

Since in this case it is adhesive tape, once the processing is finished it will be necessary to wash the glass thoroughly to eliminate glue residues.

Standard engraving

This is the engraving without auxiliary materials. 

In this case it is possible to change the colour of the engraving by varying the percentages directly from the digital file. Within the graphics, it will therefore be enough to decide on the fullness of the black colour, from 70% to 100%.

Procedure

Once you have chosen the colour, check the printing and rasterization parameters. 

In addition, among the settings of the machine there is also the possibility of arranging the rotation of the workpiece. 

So, if you want to customize a handle, you can change the engraving rotation settings. Position the workpiece carefully, check the Y-axis (rotary motion) as the first parameter, and adjust the X-axis accordingly. 

Finally, make sure that the rotation of the piece is not hindered by other objects and proceed with your engraving. 

Conclusions

Laser engraving on glass allows you to customize the surface of different objects. 

To ensure the success of the project, it is important to take into account the variables in the field such as: the percentage of lead, the technique you intend to use and the correct setting of the print file.

In addition to this, remember to monitor the machine so that you can intervene in the event of malfunctions or objects that obstruct processing.