VIN Mark 30 laser system produces tamper-proof vehicle labelling

Laser marked tamper-proof labels have now replaced the traditional metal plaques once commonly used for vehicle VIN plates. These new labels are ideally suited to the automotive, electronics and security fields. They cure upon adhesion so that they cannot be removed without destroying the label, and they also withstand high temperatures and are highly resistant to weathering. The ES Technology-developed VIN Mark 30 Laser System uses laminate foil material manufactured and supplied by TESA in reel form. Foil material from other manufacturers can also be used, following initial feasibility trials to establish suitability and optimum laser marking parameters. The 120 mm wide reel of material is loaded to a motorised dispensing mandrel on the machine. At the processing area on the machine a pair of pinch rollers, one stepper motor drive and one spring loaded are used to accurately feed and position the strip material for laser marking. The system for the TESA materials uses a 30W CO2 laser source that is fully integrated within the machine; however, other laser sources such as Nd Yag are available for alternative materials from other foil suppliers. The marking process is achieved using a high speed servo driven galvo head which is located above the working area of the machine. A built in extraction and filtration system performs a dual role within this system. The extraction system not only removes fumes and particulate, it is generates a vacuum under the foil location area to ensure that the material remains perfectly flat during the laser marking process. Safety interlocks on the filtration system access door means that the machine will automatically stop if the access door is opened during production.