Why berings should use Laser + DataMatrix
- Tiny footprint, big payload. DataMatrix (ECC200) stores dense data in a compact code—ideal for outer rings and faces.
- Error correction = real-world readability. With ECC, scanners still read even if marks suffer minor wear or partial obstruction.
- Non-contact and precise. You control heat input and geometry to protect raceways while achieving high contrast.
- Audit-ready traceability. Encode batch/lot, date/time, line, station, and operator for closed-loop QA.
Quick result you can trust: send a sample, get a verified scan grade plus a 1-minute video—free.
Engraving vs. Annealing — pick what your parts need
Laser gives you two reliable approaches. Choose based on zone, finish, and stress sensitivity.
Starter guidance: Begin with shallow engraving on rings exposed to media. Use annealing on sensitive faces; validate after finishing.
Materials & surfaces you work with
- Bearing steels (e.g., 100Cr6/52100) & stainless variants — both engrave/anneal well with controlled parameters.
- Coated/finished parts — if parts are blasted, blackened, plated, or coated, validate readability on finished samples.
- Thermal care — manage heat input near raceways; fixturing must avoid raceway load.
Fixtures, rotary, and cycle time (production reality)
- Rotary chuck presents the ring while the beam stays fixed—fast, repeatable, no stress on raceways.
- Quick-change jaws speed size family changeovers.
- Typical cycle windows are seconds per code; exact takt depends on code size, process (engrave vs. anneal), and finish. We tune with your samples.
Inline vision & code verification (zero-guesswork)
Red-light preview → camera alignment → laser mark → instant DataMatrix verification (grade storage per lot/WO). You block mis-marks at the source, reduce rework, and standardize evidence for audits.
HeatSign’s Bearing Laser Marking Solution
HS-FL60-R Fiber Laser with Rotary (best for rings & curved faces)
- 60 W, 110 × 110 mm field, Ø4–200 mm rotary clamp range
- Non-contact permanent marks; stable EZCAD workflow
- Ideal for small–medium bearings: outer ring, faces, and light curves
- Typical price: US$ 6,000 – 8,000
HS-PFL20 / HS-PFL30M-B Handheld Fiber (best for large or in-place work)
- Mobile setup: trolley all-in-one (HS-PFL20) or battery handheld (HS-PFL30M-B)
- Up to 100 × 100 mm marking area; great for big housings or on-site marks
- Typical price: US$ 3,500 – 9,000
Need rugged depth on rough cast/shot-blasted parts? Add a dot peen station for deep, permanent geometry.
Internal link: HS-DC01 Dot Peen Direct Part Marking
Explore all fiber systems: Fiber Laser Marking Machines (All Models)
How to laser-mark a bearing (your operator’s checklist)
- Clamp on rotary with jaws that avoid raceways; confirm run-out.
- Set content & parameters (power / speed / frequency / hatch); load your DMC template.
- Preview with red-light; align code to the target zone.
- Mark — choose engrave or anneal per zone; log parameters.
- Clean (wipe away dust) and scan; store verification grade against the work order.
Cost & ROI — predictable by design
You eliminate inks/labels and standardize read rates. Your main ongoing cost is power.
Fast math:
Cost/part ≈ (CapEx amortization / annual volume) + (power use × local kWh rate × cycle time) + planned maintenance / volume
Compliance & safety notes
- Class 4 laser precautions: interlocks, certified eyewear, trained operators, fume extraction where required.
- Code design: use approved DMC specs (module size, quiet zone, contrast) and keep master data aligned with your MES/ERP.
Fiber Laser Marking Machines vs. Traditional Marking Methods
| Feature | Fiber Laser Marking | Traditional Marking Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Permanent, wear-resistant | Often fades or wears off |
| Precision | High precision for intricate details | Limited detail capability |
| Material Versatility | Works on metals, plastics, and more | Limited to specific materials |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly, no harmful waste | Often involves chemicals and waste |
| Marking Process | Non-contact, no damage to surface | Physical contact can cause damage |
| Speed and Efficiency | Fast marking with quick setup times | Slower processes with more manual handling |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Higher initial investment but lower long-term costs due to no consumables | Lower initial cost but higher ongoing operational costs |
FAQs
Will laser marking damage the raceway?
No. Laser is non-contact. You control heat input, select engrave vs. anneal by zone, and clamp away from raceways.
Which code works best on small surfaces?
DataMatrix (ECC200)—tiny modules, high density, and error correction for reliable scanning in real life.
Will codes still read after blasting or blackening?
Yes—when you choose the right depth/anneal and verify on finished samples. Make post-finish verification part of your SOP.
What about very large bearings that can’t leave the line?
Use the HS-PFL30M-B battery handheld to bring the laser to the part, then verify with a handheld reader.