Many users wonder if their CO₂ laser engraver can work on metal. The short answer is yes—but with limitations. This 2025 guide explains:

✔ How CO₂ lasers interact with metal
✔ Best techniques for engraving (not cutting)
✔ Top machines for metal marking
✔ Alternative laser options

1. Can a CO₂ Laser Engrave Metal?

The Reality:

✅ Yes, but only for marking/engraving (not cutting)
❌ No, it cannot cut metal (requires fiber laser)

How It Works:

• CO₂ lasers (10.6µm wavelength) reflect off bare metal

• Requires special coatings (Cermark, Thermark) to create contrast

• Works on anodized aluminum, coated metals, painted surfaces

2. Best Metal Engraving Techniques with CO₂ Lasers

Method 1: Spray-On Coatings

• Products: Cermark, Thermark, LaserBond

• Process:

  1. Spray coating on clean metal

  2. Engrave (low power, high speed)

  3. Wipe off excess

• Results: Permanent, high-contrast marks

Method 2: Anodized Aluminum

• Works naturally (no coating needed)

• Settings:

  • Low power (10-20%)

  • High speed (500-1000mm/s)

• Effect: White/gray frosted marks

Method 3: Paint/Lacquer Removal

• Engrave through paint/powder coating

• Reveals bare metal underneath

3. Best CO₂ Lasers for Metal Engraving (2025)

Key Feature: Look for pulsed laser mode (better for metal marking).

4. Materials That Work Best

5. CO₂ vs. Fiber Lasers for Metal

Verdict: If you only work with metal, a fiber laser is better.

6. Step-by-Step Metal Engraving Guide

1. Clean the metal (use alcohol)

2. Apply coating (Cermark/LaserBond)

3. Test settings (start with 10% power, 500mm/s)

4. Engrave (1-3 passes if needed)

5. Wipe off residue (water/damp cloth)

Pro Tip: Use light pressure when wiping to avoid removing marks.

7. Safety Tips

⚠️ Ventilation: Metal coatings release fumes
⚠️ Fire Risk: Some coatings are flammable
🛡️ Eye Protection: Always wear CO₂ laser goggles

Final Verdict

• CO₂ lasers CAN engrave metal, but only with coatings

• Best for: Anodized aluminum, painted metals, industrial marking

• Worst for: Raw steel, deep engraving, cutting

For occasional use, a CO₂ laser + Cermark works.
For professional metalwork, invest in a fiber laser.

FAQs

Q: Can you engrave stainless steel without coating?
A: No—CO₂ lasers can’t mark bare stainless steel effectively.

Q: How permanent are Cermark engravings?
A: Very durable—resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and heat.

Q: What’s the cheapest way to engrave metal?
A: A diode laser (20W+) with coating (~$600 setup).