Laser Terminology
Resolution (DPI)
Resolution is the measurement of an image's quality. Resolution is
expressed in dots per inch (DPI) and depends upon the number of lines or
inches than can fit in every inch of movement. The greater the resolution,
the more refined the detail and thus a better, clearer picture. The
standard resolution for most engraving work is 400 to 600 DPI. The Pinnacle™
laser systems can engrave from a range of 200 to 1016 DPI.
Engraver Power
This is the amount of laser intensity that is focused to the surface of
the material. Higher amounts of power will result in deeper cuts or
engravings when compared to a weaker engraver moving at the same speed. The
intensity can also have relevance on speed. A more potent laser can travel
at a faster speed and produce the same results as a moderate laser traveling
at a much slower pace. A stronger laser can also cut through thicker
materials. Pinnacle™ laser engravers range from 12 watts to a powerful 100
watts.
Engraver Speed
This is the rate at which the engraving head moves, stated as inches
per second (IPS). The higher the speed, the faster the engraver completes
its job. Speed is also relative to the depth of the cut. Slower movement
will result in deeper cuts or engravings when compared to an engraver with
the same power level moving at a faster pace. The laser engravers at
Pinnacle™ can have astonishing speeds, up to 42 ips, while maintaining
fantastic quality.
Raster Engraving
Raster engraving is like the old fashion version of printing applied
with a laser. Acting with the style of a dot matrix, the laser head travels
up one line and down the next producing sequences of dots. These lines
create high detailed engravings which are ideal for clipart, text, and
images that have been scanned in.
Vector Cutting and Engraving
Much quicker than raster engraving, vector cutting and/or engraving
follows an outline. A constant beam allows for completely cutting through
materials such as wood or acrylic, or for quickly engraving patterns or
designs on an assortment of surfaces.
3D-Engraving
3D-engraving is making use of an engraver to create objects that
appear three dimensional. Portraits can be scanned in and create wonderful
engraved images that protrude from their backgrounds. Another common use of
3D-engraving is the creation of nameplates. By removing the backgrounds, the
letters are left raised from the surface. This has much more detail than
casting and creates smoother results.
|
