CerMark Technical Support

The most common problem with the CerMark process is when incorrect laser settings are used and the material does not create a permanent bond to the item. This is normally due to laser power being too low and/or speed settings being too fast.  It can result from the laser not being in focus or the laser optics may require cleaning or replacement.

No two CO2 laser tubes put out the exact same amount of energy so we can not create specific settings charts.  You will have to do testing to determine specific power and speed settings for each of your own systems.

Every material types require different power and speed settings.  Hard metals like stainless steel can be marked at much faster speeds then softer metals like aluminum and copper which suck the laser heat away quickly.

Many times brass and copper items will have a clear coating on them to prevent tarnish.  These coatings prevent CerMark from bonding to the base metal.

Thicker application of CerMark does not make a darker mark or make it stick better.  For best mark results spray application of CerMark with just enough coating to hide the base material.  In the case of glass marking you want to be sure you can not see through the CerMark coating.

The chart below is just for general reference and shows heat conductivity values for different metal types.  The lower the number the slower heat is sucked away.  Higher number mean you have to mark at slower speeds to adjust for higher heat conductivity.

Check out our instruction videos on YouTube: 

Detailed Technical support documents  

Shelf Life:
Spray Cans:  24 months from date of manufacture.  Must shake for 2 minutes before use. Do not exceed 120 degrees F.

Liquid:  24 months from date of manufacture.  Must be shaken and stirred to smooth consistency prior to each use. Keep container tightly closed when not poring out for use. Do not exceed 120 degrees F in storage.

Tape:  30 months from date of manufacture. Store in a dry conditions between 40 and 95 degrees F.