3 laser technologies
CO₂, Fiber and UV, to match the marking to material, contrast and production conditions.
Markem-Imaje technology · Industrial marking and coding
Industrial laser marking systems for permanent codes and advanced traceability
Precision on every mark, performance at production speed. SmartLase® systems by Markem-Imaje use CO₂, Fiber and UV laser technologies to print data, batches, 1D and 2D codes and variable identifiers without ink, directly onto compatible products and packaging.
From bottling and food packaging to pharmaceuticals, automotive and industrial components, the SmartLase range covers different materials and requirements. Imark Sistem supports you in choosing and integrating the solution: technical analysis, technology selection, line integration, protection and extraction, software connectivity and support.
Performance in industrial applications
Documented technology for production
No ink or ribbon
Marking is created by the beam interacting with the material, without conventional printing consumables.
up to 150,000 products/hour
Maximum stated capacity for certain SmartLase models and configurations, depending on the application.
1D and 2D codes
Variable information and codes for identification, control and traceability systems.
Performance depends on the model, material, code size and integration conditions.
Precise identification. Controlled productivity.
Permanent marking is not only a technical requirement. It is part of product quality.
A product that cannot be correctly identified becomes a problem for the entire production and distribution chain. Damaged codes, illegible information or batch errors can generate costs, additional checks and non-compliance risks.
Laser technology addresses these challenges through a digital, ink-free process that creates durable marks by controlled modification of the surface: removal of a superficial layer, engraving, colour change or other specific interactions, depending on substrate and technology.
The Imark Sistem approach
We do not choose a laser source by power alone
We analyse the material, the behaviour of the mark, the available time, the code size, the working distance and the safety requirements. On this basis we identify the right configuration and assess integration with the production infrastructure.
Durable identification
The mark can become part of the surface, resistant to handling and to the conditions it was validated for.
Industrial productivity
Systems designed for automated lines, including high-speed applications and complex messages.
No printing consumables
No ink, additive or ribbon: simpler supply and administration.
Connectivity and digital control
Messages are managed through local interfaces and compatible software, for efficient information handling.
Optimised total cost of use
In suitable applications, the absence of consumables and extended operation intervals can deliver a competitive cost per mark.
1D and 2D codes for traceability
Prints variable information and legible codes for identification and verification systems, on compatible materials.
CO₂ · Fiber · UV
Three laser technologies. Different applications. One technically grounded choice.
Materials do not interact identically with laser energy. Wavelength, power, focus and exposure time affect contrast, speed and the effect on the surface.
CO₂ laser
Coding of food packaging, labels, printed cardboard, glass and certain plastics or laminates, through controlled modification of the material. Important where speed, legibility and the elimination of consumables matter.
Materials: cardboard, paper, glass, PET, compatible films · Equipment: C150/C350/C340/C350 BOU/HD/C600/BOU/X-WIDE
Fiber laser
Permanent, high-contrast marks on metals, metallised surfaces and rigid plastics that respond to its wavelength: metal containers and caps, technical components, metallised packaging.
Materials: aluminium, treated/anodised metals, rigid plastics · Equipment: SmartLase F250
UV laser
Short wavelength, with photochemical interaction and reduced heat transfer: suitable for heat-sensitive materials, monomaterial films, caps, containers and glass.
Materials: HDPE, LDPE, PE, PP, ABS, polycarbonate, glass, recyclable films · Equipment: SmartLase UV500
There is no universal laser technology. The same product may require different solutions depending on colour, composition, thickness or finish. We recommend evaluating and, where needed, testing the mark before choosing the configuration.
Non-contact marking technology
The energy is controlled. The mark is created directly on the material.
Laser marking uses a beam of concentrated light, directed and focused onto the surface. Depending on material and parameters, the interaction can modify the superficial layer, remove part of it or generate other effects to create the code. The process is digital, without ink deposition.
Preparing the information
The system receives the message to mark: date, batch, series, identifier, 1D or 2D code, from the operator or a compatible software application.
Detection and synchronisation
Sensors identify the product position, and the control system synchronises marking with the line movement.
Focusing and directing the beam
The optical system directs the beam to the marking area, according to the configured geometry and parameters.
Creating the mark
The laser energy interacts with the material, generating characters, symbols and codes. The result depends on material, wavelength, energy, focus and speed.
Verifying the result
For applications with automatic control, the mark can be verified by a compatible vision or reading system.
Physical processes used
Ablation
Controlled removal of a superficial layer.
Engraving
Local modification or removal of material to produce the mark.
Foaming
Local modification of the structure of certain plastics, which can generate contrast.
Colour change
Visual modification of the material through interaction with laser energy.
Scribing
Controlled tracing of shapes and characters by moving the beam.
The effect on the material is established by testing. Incorrect parameters can cause damage, perforation or marks with insufficient contrast.
Solutions for real production requirements
What does the laser system on your line need to solve?
High-speed bottling lines
Marking containers and labels at high speeds: precise synchronisation, legible codes and integration into the available space.
To evaluate: SmartLase C350 BOU · C600 BOU
Flexible packaging and thin films
Code quality without compromising film integrity; technology selection and energy tuning avoid damage.
To evaluate: SmartLase C350 · C600 · UV500
Metal components and rigid plastics
Contrast and durability for product identification under the intended conditions of use.
To evaluate: SmartLase F250 · UV500
Stick-packs and multi-line production
Simultaneous marking of several packs: extended surface and synchronisation with the process.
To evaluate: SmartLase C350 HD/HD Plus · C600 X-WIDE
Compact 2D codes and traceability
Complex identifiers and Data Matrix or QR codes, with requirements for size, contrast and reading.
To evaluate: SmartLase F250 · C600 · UV500
Reducing consumables and interventions
At high volumes, eliminating printing consumables simplifies operations and reduces recurring costs.
Evaluation of the laser technology suited to the substrate and process
Technology for industrial efficiency
SmartLase performance depends on more than laser power
Intelli’Arc®
Markem-Imaje’s patented tracing optimises character formation; in documented configurations it can code up to 30% faster than certain conventional vector systems.
Intelli’Cool®
Cooling solutions manage thermal load in intensive cycles, reducing the risk of overheating and supporting availability.
CoLOS®
Compatible software platforms manage and distribute messages and integrate with the factory’s digital infrastructure.
Industrial interfaces
Advanced models offer communication options for integration with control systems and industrial applications.
Modular design
The architecture eases access to components and deployment across different line configurations.
High-speed scanning optics
Galvanometer mirror optics direct the beam for fast, precise marks, including complex codes.
Features are available depending on model, generation, configuration and installed options.
Markem-Imaje portfolio
Laser solutions for every stage of industrial development
From basic package marking to high-speed lines, multi-line production or precision codes on difficult materials. Imark Sistem helps you assess the technology, performance, cost of ownership and integration.
CO₂ laser — packaging, cardboard, glass, films
CO₂ laser · versatile coding
SmartLase C150 and C350
Permanent codes on a variety of packaging. C150 (10 W) for lower speeds, C350 (30 W) for lines with higher demands. Intelli’Arc® for efficient tracing and clear characters, including variable messages.
- Technology
- CO₂ laser
- Power
- 10 W / 30 W
- Codes
- text, dates, batches, 1D/2D
- Integration
- continuous and intermittent
- Tracing
- Intelli’Arc®
CO₂ laser · all-in-one
SmartLase C340
Basic coding on packaging, a compact and economical solution. CO₂ 30 W, complete configuration with adjustable stand, sensors and a dedicated fume extractor; simplified installation.
- Technology
- CO₂ laser 30 W
- Capacity
- up to 125 m/min
- Protection
- IP44
- Configuration
- all-in-one
- Control
- touch or web
CO₂ laser · integration in difficult spaces
SmartLase C350 BOU
A Beam Orientation Unit (BOU) positions the head in hard-to-reach areas without disproportionate changes to the machine. CO₂ 30 W. In documented configurations, up to 45,000 bottles per hour.
- Technology
- CO₂ laser 30 W
- Unit
- BOU (beam orientation)
- Capacity
- up to 45,000 bottles/hour
- Integration
- tight spaces
- Tracing
- Intelli’Arc®
CO₂ laser · multi-line and wide web
SmartLase C350 HD / HD Plus
Printing codes on extended surfaces, with multiple coordinated laser sources for simultaneous marking of several packs. HD Plus: two 30 W sources cover 670 mm, three sources up to 1,005 mm. Also controlled scoring applications.
- Technology
- multi-line CO₂
- Configurations
- 2 or 3 laser sources
- Coverage
- up to 1,005 mm (3 units)
- Rate
- up to 60 cycles/min (HD Plus)
- Functions
- coding and scoring
CO₂ laser · advanced performance
SmartLase C600
A 60 W CO₂ platform for high-speed, complex applications. High-speed tracing algorithms and optics, 1D/2D codes, a 10.1″ touchscreen, industrial connectivity and CoLOS®.
- Technology
- CO₂ laser 60 W
- Codes
- complex information, 1D/2D
- Screen
- touch 10.1″
- Protection
- IP55 (specified components)
- Integration
- CoLOS® + industrial communication
CO₂ laser 60 W · flexible orientation
SmartLase C600 BOU
The 60 W CO₂ platform with flexible beam orientation for installations where conventional placement is difficult. Optical segments and bends direct the beam; the main unit stays accessible. Up to 150,000 products per hour.
- Technology
- CO₂ laser 60 W
- Unit
- BOU (beam orientation)
- Optics
- up to 3 bends / 4 segments
- Capacity
- up to 150,000 products/hour
- Integration
- difficult spaces
CO₂ laser · extended surfaces · multi-line
SmartLase C600 X-WIDE
The X-WIDE optical head extends the marking field up to 820 × 500 mm, for marking several packs in a single operation, on wide films or in a matrix. Two 60 W systems can cover about 1.6 m width. CoLOS® integration.
- Technology
- CO₂ laser 60 W
- Head
- X-WIDE optics
- Max field
- 820 × 500 mm
- Applications
- multi-line and matrix
- Integration
- CoLOS®
Fiber laser · metals and rigid materials
SmartLase F250
A 20 W Fiber system for high-precision coding on dense materials and compatible surfaces: metal containers and caps, technical components, rigid plastics, metallised packaging. 1D/2D codes for traceability.
- Technology
- Fiber laser 20 W
- Materials
- metals, metallised, rigid plastics
- Codes
- 1D and 2D
- Protection
- IP55 (specified units)
- Integration
- CoLOS® + industrial communication
UV laser 5 W · delicate materials
SmartLase UV500
A 5 W UV laser (355 nm) for precise codes on sensitive materials or ones hard to mark with other technologies, with reduced heat transfer. Variable information, small characters and complex 2D codes.
- Technology
- UV laser 5 W (355 nm)
- Character
- from 0.2 mm (compatible conditions)
- Speed
- up to 900 m/min
- Capacity
- up to 150,000 products/hour
- Protection
- IP52 / IP55
Operator protection · extraction and filtering
ES Series extractors
Capture and filtering of fumes, vapours, gases and particles generated during laser marking. They protect operators and optical components and reduce deposits in the marking area. Depending on the model: particle+gas filtering, filter monitoring, flow control.
- Role
- extraction and filtering
- Capture
- at source
- Filtering
- particles and certain gases/vapours
- Monitoring
- filter status (model dependent)
- Sizing
- by emissions and safety assessment
Not sure which SmartLase model fits your application?
The choice of equipment depends on material, line speed, the code required, the installation space and the safety requirements. We help you compare CO₂, Fiber and UV technologies and identify the right configuration.
Technology selection
Which SmartLase system fits your application?
Standard package marking
SmartLase C340 — all-in-one, basic coding and simplified integration.
Versatile CO₂ applications
SmartLase C150/C350 — adaptable to different speeds and materials.
Tight spaces and bottling
SmartLase C350 BOU / C600 BOU — beam orientation in difficult areas.
High productivity
SmartLase C600 — 60 W CO₂ platform, advanced control and connectivity.
Multi-line applications
SmartLase C350 HD/HD Plus / C600 X-WIDE — extended coverage and matrix coding.
Metals and rigid materials
SmartLase F250 — Fiber 20 W for precise marks.
This guidance is a starting point. The actual choice is made after evaluating the substrate, the message, the production conditions and the test results.
Material compatibility
Which materials can be marked with laser technology?
PET and plastic containers
Bottles, containers and certain PET packaging, with integrity checks on thin containers.
HDPE, PP and rigid plastics
Caps, bottles, containers and components; depending on composition and colour, Fiber or UV solutions.
Glass
Data and codes on glass containers or components; for detail and sensitivity, UV technology is relevant.
Metals and aluminium
Metal containers, caps and components, including treated or anodised ones; often with Fiber laser.
Cardboard and printed labels
Controlled interaction with the superficial layer or pre-printed ink; CO₂ is efficient on printed cardboard.
Flexible films and laminates
Flexible packaging, with attention to film thickness, the printed layer and the risk of damage.
Cables and extruded products
Continuous marking on cable sheaths, pipes and profiles, depending on composition.
Industrial components
Identification of products and batches on metal or polymer components.
Compatibility cannot be guaranteed by material category alone. For confirmation we analyse the actual composition, finish, thickness, colour and the durability required of the mark.
Variable information and digital identification
What information can be marked with an industrial laser?
For automatic-reading applications, code quality is assessed against the relevant printing and verification standards.
Dates and best-before
Information to identify the date of manufacture and the best-before date.
Batch numbers and shift codes
Linking products to batches and manufacturing intervals, for traceability.
Serial numbers and unique identifiers
Individualised information, when each product needs a distinct identifier.
1D barcodes
Compatible linear symbologies, with checks on size and quality against the scanning system.
2D codes
QR, Data Matrix and other symbologies accepted by the equipment configuration.
Logos and graphic elements
Symbols, pictograms or graphics, within the limits of resolution, contrast and available surface.
Solutions for different industrial sectors
Laser marking adapted to the materials, processes and requirements of each industry
Permanent coding for food packaging
Correct coding supports batch identification, best-before management and traceability. Laser integrates for variable information on certain cardboard, film, container and laminate packaging, with attention to material integrity and food safety.
Dates and batches
Variable information on compatible packaging, updated after production.
Identifiers and traceability
1D/2D codes for internal records and verification.
Diverse materials
Cardboard, films, containers and laminates, with technology chosen by structure.
Technologies to evaluate: CO₂ and UV.
Productivity and identification for bottling lines
High volumes and precise synchronisation of coding with the flow of containers. Marking on PET bottles, labels, glass and caps may require different technologies; BOU systems are relevant in limited integration spaces.
High-speed bottling
Synchronising the code with the flow of containers at high volumes.
Limited integration spaces
BOU systems orient the beam into difficult areas.
Codes on various materials
PET, labels, glass and caps, by material and position.
Technologies to evaluate: CO₂, Fiber and UV.
Precision for identification and traceability
Compact codes, individual identifiers and strict requirements for legibility and verification. Laser is evaluated for compatible packaging, blisters, containers and medical components; in regulated applications, verification and data integration follow the process requirements.
Compact codes
Data Matrix and identifiers in small spaces, with verification.
Legibility and verification
Mark control for regulated requirements.
Serialisation
Individual identifiers for unit-level tracking.
Technologies to evaluate: UV, Fiber and CO₂, depending on material.
Coding that respects the packaging presentation
Packaging is part of the product identity. Coding provides the required information without unduly affecting the appearance or integrity of the container: discreet, precise marks on containers, caps, labels and decorative packaging.
Discreet marks
On containers and caps, without affecting the design.
Decorative packaging
Technologies suited to special finishes.
Identification
Batches and codes on compatible materials.
Technologies to evaluate: Fiber, UV and CO₂.
Component identification throughout the industrial process
Components may require durable marks for batch identification, operation tracking and quality control. Depending on material, laser generates identifiers on metal or polymer components or on treated surfaces.
Durable marks
On metals and treated surfaces, resistant in process.
Batch identifiers
For operation tracking and quality control.
2D codes
Data Matrix on components, with verification.
Technologies to evaluate: Fiber and UV.
Continuous marking of technical products
Identification is done on moving materials and may require repeating the mark at set intervals. Technology selection depends on composition, line speed, contrast and the durability of the mark.
Continuous marking
On moving cable sheaths, pipes and profiles.
Repeat at intervals
Mark repeated at preset distances.
Durability
Contrast and durability after testing.
Technologies to evaluate: CO₂, Fiber or UV, by test results.
Safety is part of the project
A high-performance laser installation must also be correctly protected
Industrial laser systems use concentrated energy sources that require protective measures for operators and nearby people. Safety is assessed at the level of the whole assembly, not only the laser source.
Protection against beam exposure
Screens, enclosures and protective devices to limit accidental exposure, including hazardous reflections.
Interlocks and emergency stop
Interlock devices and stop circuits integrated into the machine safety system.
Extraction and filtering of emissions
Capture and filtering of particles and emissions, depending on material and risk assessment.
Optics protection and maintenance
Managing deposits that can affect optical components, through extraction and maintenance.
Risk assessment
Configuration established by application, laser class, operator access and safety requirements.
Operator training and procedures
Safe operation requires trained personnel and adherence to the equipment-specific procedures.
Imark Sistem can integrate the protection, access and extraction requirements into the project analysis, so the solution meets the production objectives and the conditions for safe use.
Long-term economic efficiency
No printing consumables. With a complete assessment of the investment.
Laser can offer economic advantages at high volumes: eliminating ink, additives and ribbons reduces recurring costs. Still, the assessment must include the whole system.
Initial investment
The equipment, optics, accessories, protection systems and integration.
Energy consumption
The electrical power of the laser source, controller and auxiliary equipment.
Extraction and filtering
The cost of emission-capture systems and filter maintenance.
Maintenance
Periodic checks, optics cleaning and any interventions.
Line availability
The effects of maintenance and stoppages on productivity.
Cost per mark
The ratio between operating costs and the number of products marked.
The Imark Sistem recommendation
We assess the total cost of use against volume, operating life, application conditions and alternative technologies. The goal is not just reducing one consumable, but the best balance between performance, investment and operating costs.
Integration into the digital factory
From a permanent code to a controlled data flow
Centralised message management
Organising print formats and distributing them to compatible equipment.
Fewer manual operations
Controlled data transmission limits repetitive information entry.
Integration with ERP and MES
Connecting to planning and production-management applications, depending on architecture.
Monitoring and diagnostics
Information on equipment operation, for operation and timely interventions.
Extended traceability
Combining coding with identification and verification to track products between stages.
Standardised templates and formats
Reusable formats reduce errors when changing products and keep marks consistent across lines.
The future of product identification
Laser marking and the new possibilities of 2D codes
The evolution of GS1 standards and 2D codes creates new opportunities for traceability and connection with digital information. GS1 Sunrise 2027 targets the ability of retail systems to read standardised 2D codes alongside linear ones. SmartLase can print 2D codes on compatible materials, with the right technology and configuration.
What to verify before implementation
- The structure and syntax of the encoded information
- The size and positioning of the code
- The contrast and quality of the mark
- Compatibility with the material
- The performance of the scanning systems
- Integration with production data
Examples of 2D coding and identification on products and packaging
The images illustrate possibilities of identification and are not a guarantee that any material or code can be marked with the same technology.
Technology in action
Discover laser marking in real production conditions
From coding containers and packaging to identifying components, the performance of a laser system depends on its integration into the process.
Bottling lines
Marking moving products, with synchronisation of the code position and production parameters.
Flexible packaging
Coding films and laminated packaging, keeping material integrity.
Industrial components
Printing identification information on certain metal or polymer materials.
Technical expertise. Integrated industrial solutions.
A high-performance laser system starts with a partner who understands the whole process
Technical consultancy for industrial applications
We analyse the product, production rate and coding requirements before recommending equipment.
Markem-Imaje technology
Access to an established portfolio of CO₂, Fiber and UV laser solutions.
Integration into the production line
We assess positioning, synchronisation, connectivity and the technical requirements of the process.
Complementary solutions
Integrating marking with identification, inspection and data management systems.
Technical support in Romania
Installation, assistance and maintenance, under the contractual conditions and the configurations implemented.
Testing and validating the mark
We assess how the mark behaves on the real material and, where needed, recommend testing before settling the configuration.
Operational continuity
Performance must be maintained throughout the operating life
Laser systems have different maintenance needs from ink or ribbon technologies, but correct operation requires periodic checks of components and maintenance of the auxiliary infrastructure.
Installation and commissioning
Configuring the equipment and verifying the marking and integration parameters.
Operator training
The basic functions, operating procedures and system-specific restrictions.
Optics maintenance
Checking and cleaning optical components per approved procedures.
Extraction maintenance
Checking the operation and status of filters, per recommendations and operating conditions.
Diagnostics and interventions
Identifying technical issues and service by qualified personnel.
Spare parts and components
We supply the components needed, such as optics and filters, to keep the equipment in operation.
Essential technical information
Frequently asked questions about industrial laser marking
What is industrial laser marking?
A non-contact identification process in which a laser beam locally modifies the surface of the product or packaging to generate text, symbols and codes. Depending on material and technology, the mark results from ablation, engraving, colour change or other physical mechanisms.
What is the difference between CO₂, Fiber and UV laser?
CO₂ is common on packaging, printed cardboard, glass and compatible materials. Fiber suits metals, metallised surfaces and rigid plastics. UV allows precise marking of sensitive materials, with reduced heat transfer. The choice depends on substrate, contrast, speed and process requirements.
Is the laser mark permanent?
In many applications it is durable, because it results from modifying the surface. Durability depends on material, marking mechanism and conditions of use; for special requirements the result is validated through tests.
Does laser marking need ink or ribbon?
No, the process does not need ink, additives or ribbon to form the code. It does, however, have energy, maintenance and possible auxiliary protection and extraction costs.
Can plastics be marked?
Yes, many plastics can be marked with suitable laser technologies. Compatibility depends on composition, colour, finish, thickness and parameters; for sensitive materials, UV can be evaluated.
Can laser marking damage the packaging?
Yes, if the technology or parameters are not suitable. Excess energy can cause damage, deformation or perforation, especially on thin materials. That is why source selection and parameter validation are essential.
Can QR and Data Matrix codes be printed?
Yes, compatible SmartLase models can produce 2D codes. Quality is checked against size, contrast, material and the applicable standards.
Is laser equipment suitable for high-speed production?
Yes, the SmartLase range includes equipment for high productivity. Actual capacity depends on model, message size, material, number of characters and conditions.
Is a fume extractor necessary?
In many applications, yes. The laser interacting with the material can generate particles, gases and vapours that must be captured. The need and sizing are established after assessing the application and risks.
Does an industrial laser need maintenance?
Yes. Although it does not use conventional printing consumables, the equipment needs checks and maintenance per recommendations: optics, protections, filters and auxiliary components.
Can I integrate a SmartLase system into my existing line?
In many cases, yes. It depends on space, line speed, product type, working distance, electrical infrastructure and safety requirements. BOU models are designed for scenarios with limited space.
What is SmartLase BOU?
BOU stands for Beam Orientation Unit: directing the beam to the marking area through an optical path adapted to the installation geometry, useful when mounting space is restricted.
Which technology suits marking metals?
Fiber laser is commonly used for metals and metallised surfaces. In certain applications other technologies may be used, depending on material and mark requirements.
Is laser more economical than ink printing?
It can be, especially at high volumes, where eliminating consumables is an advantage. The comparison must include investment, energy, extraction, maintenance and cost per mark.
Can laser equipment connect to ERP or MES?
Depending on model and configuration, it can integrate with industrial software applications and the CoLOS® platform. The architecture and features are checked for each project.
How do I choose the right laser equipment?
The first step is evaluating the material, line speed, code content, installation conditions and the required durability. On that basis, Imark Sistem identifies the relevant solutions and recommends testing where needed.
Have a marking application? Let us choose the right technology.
Whether you are designing a new line, upgrading an existing system or considering switching from ink to laser, a preliminary technical evaluation helps you avoid an unsuitable investment. We analyse the material, speed, code size and integration conditions.
Technologies for the whole industrial process
One technology should not solve every application
CIJ marking
Non-contact coding for a variety of materials and products, including high-speed lines.
DiscoverTIJ marking
High-resolution thermal inkjet, for compatible packaging and materials.
DiscoverTTO marking
Thermal transfer on flexible films and compatible packaging.
DiscoverAutomatic identification and inspection
Reading, verifying and managing printed information.
DiscoverSoftware and traceability
Integrating coding equipment and managing identification information.
DiscoverIndustry solutions
Marking and coding applications adapted to industrial sectors.
DiscoverThe right solution starts with understanding your material and your process
Before choosing a laser system we establish not only which code you want, but how the mark must behave on the real material. We analyse the whole process for a configuration adapted to the technical, safety and economic requirements. Phone: +40 21 255 71 74.