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

Wood is a widely used material for laser engraving. 

Depending on the different types, different colours, engravings and details can be obtained.

In this article we will talk about the different types of wood and the best techniques to engrave it.

What types of wood are suitable for laser engraving

There are different types of wood on the market, each of which can vary in density, resin and more.

Let's see in detail the different characteristics and possible processes. 

Softwood

This is the case with balsa wood or poplar, both of which require lower laser power. For these types of wood, processing will be faster than with other harder woods. In addition, the trace left by the laser will be lighter and less contrasting than the unworked surface.

Hardwood

Oak and cherry wood are part of this category. 

As anticipated, machining requires higher laser power than soft ones and longer times. In addition, the furrow of the line will be more contrasting and visible than the colour of the unworked surface.

Coniferous wood

Larch and fir belong to this category.

These types of wood cannot be engraved as they are too hard in some parts and quite soft in others. This feature makes laser machining very difficult, as the machine settings require continuous changes depending on the area concerned.

Veneered wood

It is a poorly prized wood whose boards are covered with an outer layer of wood called "veneer". For this type, we recommend adopting laser processing parameters similar to those of engraving on solid wood.

Plywood

Wood composed of three or more layers superimposed and glued together. 

In this case, the setting of the machine varies depending on the thickness and types of wood used. It is also important to know the type of glue used, as it could have an impact during processing and therefore on the final result.

MDF

Type composed of soft wood defibrated and then pressed, in order to obtain a homogeneous and solid surface. 

Although it is easily laser machined, it is important to know that the incision visibly darkens the machined areas. 

It is also good to consider the amount of resin present in the wood as it could compromise laser processing or create damage to the machine.

Parameters and techniques of engraving on wood

To be able to process wood efficiently, it is necessary to know the main parameters to be followed both in the preparation phase and during processing.

Before starting the machine, we recommend carefully evaluating: 

• the grayscale matrix, to determine the engraving parameters depending on the blur on the wood (darker or lighter);

• the defocusing of the laser beam;

• the laser density necessary for processing.

It is also important to prepare the material before engraving. 

To prevent the dust generated by the laser from sticking to the processing area, place an adhesive tape (free of PVC as it is carcinogenic when subjected to the heat of the laser beam) to protect the engraving area. Attention: the tape is particularly suitable for large areas and easy to remove once the drawing is finished. However, it is impractical for the processing of very small details and areas, as in the case of the photoengraving technique.

As for the lenses, they must be set according to the type of incision you want to obtain. The smaller the focal length, the thinner the track will be. 

Finally, remember to clean the lenses and machine components at the end of the engraving, as the dust generated could stick to the next piece and compromise the result of a new engraving. 

Conclusions

Wood is one of the most used materials for laser processing, as it lends itself very well to both cutting and laser engraving.

However, it is important to know the characteristics of the wood on which you want to engrave, in order to prepare the settings of the machine correctly. 

If you have doubts about the type of wood that best suits your project and are looking for online assistance, write to us. We will evaluate the possible solutions together.