MKT Laser Designs

The Difference Between Marking and Engraving To be honest the difference can be very subtle. But to simplify it, some materials can not be "engraved" with small CO2 lasers. That is, material is not removed when the laser strikes the surface. Or with some materials only a very small fraction of the surface is removed. Engraving, on the other hand, removes material from the surface. Some materials will be shown under engraving too.
Samples of Marked Materials
Stainless Steel A paste is placed on the metal and when the laser strikes the surface the paste is permanently bonded to the surface. It leaves a matte black marking. Can't be burned off Chemical Resistant Abrasion Resistant
Anodized Aluminum The anodizing is removed to reveal the natural aluminum color. This can product very fine detail.
Pewter Pewter can be marked in a similar fashion to stainless steel. The contrast creates a beautiful finished product. Caution needs to be taken: Pewter is soft and an abrasive pad could remove the marking.
Marble Marble creates a beautiful contrast when lasered. The marble is actually bleached creating an almost white marking.