How color laser engraving works
The principle behind laser color engraving is surface oxidation. Scientifically, many material surfaces react in the air to form thin oxide layers. When the surface of a material is heated using a laser beam, it forms a thin oxide film. The actual thickness of this film is achieved by altering the scanning velocity, power, and line spacing. Other essential parameters for the technology include marking direction, marking speed, focal spot diameter, pulse length, and repetition rate.
Once a constant material surface temperature has been maintained, a uniform color can be created. The thin oxide layer will grow in thickness until it forms a thin film effect. This is what determines the reflection of white light and hence the appearance of other colors. A thick oxide layer is beneficial because it protects the material against corrosion and scratching. For acrylic, color laser engraving is achieved through the addition of a color dye powder. This begins with traditional engraving then pressing a special powder on the engraved parts using a laser machine.