Lifocolor has added a new POM-based additive batch to its portfolio for even higher-contrast labelling on black polyoxymethylene (POM). The new laser additive masterbatch achieves an almost pure white colour quality. It therefore fulfils the highest quality standards for light-coloured markings on dark or deep black substrates.
Laser marking of plastic parts has also found its way into creative packaging design. The technology is not only abrasion-resistant and therefore durable and tamper-proof. It is also flexible and suitable for almost all polymers. And thanks to its rapid implementation and variability, it fits very well into production and processing procedures.
A prerequisite for laser marking is the conversion of laser energy into heat on the surface of the plastic part to be marked. Many plastics in the near infrared light range cannot absorb laser radiation. It is therefore essential that the to sensitise the polymer for the laser by adding an additive. Different raw polymers, colourants and other additives react very differently. It is therefore important to match the right additive batch to the respective polymer to be used. Some polymers, such as polycarbonates (PC), can be labelled without laser additives under certain conditions. Others, however, require special additives to enable high-contrast labelling.
Lifocolor offers iCustomised solutions
With LIFOLAS M, Lifocolor, an experienced manufacturer of colour masterbatches, additive preparations and compounds, offers a range of 18 tailor-made laser additive products as a series. The newly developed LIFOLAS M Black 112031 on a POM basis achieves a Almost pure white colour quality on a deep black background and therefore already includes the black base colouring. The included laser additive thus ensures a unique radiant contrast and premium quality in the laser marking result.
LIFOLAS M Black 112031 POM is usually mixed with two per cent and, thanks to its EC 10/2011 and FDA conformity, also extends the range of applications, for example for devices, vessels or Packaging that comes into contact with food.
Uniquely bright contrasts and contours
In laser marking, a high-energy, focussed beam of light is directed to a specific point on the surface of the material. This can lead to foaming, carbonisation or ablation. POM and PA are typical plastics that tend to foam. LIFOLAS M Black 112031 POM and LIFOLAS M Black 114031 PA cause the enriched material to absorb the laser energy. This produces a sharply contoured typeface with unrivalled white contrast.
The 17 supplementary additive preparations in the LIFOLAS M range are suitable for twelve other types of plastic, dark labelling on light substrates or even labelling on transparent applications. Lifocolor also supports its customers in the development of customised products for new applications.
Source: Lifocolour
