Hermes VANGUARD OPTIMA, User Manual

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Sample Materials 8-7
ANODIZED ALUMINUM
TYPE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH
RASTER ENGRAVING 30 100 500 1 .001”
COMMENTS: The power required is dependent on the thickness of the anodized coating. Do
not overpower because the anodized will either be dull in appearance or the engraving lines will
be too thick.
TYPE POWER SPEED PPI PASS DEPTH
VECTOR ENGRAVING 10 4.0 500 1 .001”
COMMENTS:
Different anodized coatings will require higher or lower power settings. Power
must be increased if engraving at a faster speed.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
There is a process called Laser Color Marking which enables the color filling of anodized
aluminum. First, coat or spray the aluminum with a clear acrylic finish. After the finish has
thoroughly dried, laser engrave the graphic onto the aluminum. Then take a water based
marker, such as those found in an art supply store, and swab on the ink into the engraved
area. You can actually see the ink get absorbed into the engraved area but not the unengraved
area. The ink will appear lighter in color because the white engraved area tends to lighten the
shade. Use a darker tint marker to compensate for the lighter effect. Wipe off the excess with a
soft, lint free cloth. Finish the piece by applying another coat of clear acrylic finish and let dry.