laser etching tube

Properly done, I don't think that one can compromise structural integrity of a steel tube by lasering it.

You'd have to come up with an indexer NC controlled spindle to hold your piece during the etching and rotating it accordingly.

I've read that the new-generation laser markers can adjust projection to concave or convex shape to compensate for the roundness of the tube.

So all in all I think you could do it, lad!

The LASER will etch the tube if it is the proper wavelength for your material.

They etch: diamonds, a jello like substance for printing presses, computer chips, just to name a few, all finer than the eye can perceive. Some times it takes a very good microscope to read the markings.

I have not dealt with that field for about ten years now, and that was then. Look for LASER marking machines etc.

As for the heat issue, these lasers are usually pulsed very fast to let the abated material escape the path between the laser and the work piece so heat build up is very minimal.

Oh ya, the higher the frequency the finer the detail. There is a point of diminishing returns in air. The heated air bends the light similar to the heat waves on a hot road.

They also can be very fast.

Lots of luck, hope this was of help. I'm on vacation (Working on my sisters house for her) so I.m data poor.

Brad

do you know of anyone in the world who would or does do this kind of process , as i am in no possition to be able to research and develop such a thing myself

regards

daniel