Crystal and glass engraving

Engraving glass with a laser avoids the risk of breaking the product or the tool. This contactless technology ensures safe engraving, even on the thinnest glass and it is quiet. However, cracks naturally appear when glass is lasered, depending on the glass quality (crystal is usually crack free).

To reduce unwanted cracks, we recommend laying wet paper on the glass being processed before lasering it. This will improve the heat dissipation and therefore reduce cracked effects. When using this technique, do not forget to turn off the air assist to avoid drying the paper.

By playing with the focal distance and laser power, different aspects can be obtained with laser. Depending on the result you want, the laser parameters will be adapted automatically thanks to our Gravostyle™ software library. It allows the user to process:

• White engraving
• Deep engraving with the possibility to add color inside after (see Gravotech colorants catalog)
• Frosted engraving
• Light unpolished engraving

Depending on the pressure applied on the glass, the engraving can be deep enough to be filled with color or it can be light and create a scratched effect that only affect the surface of the glass.

Rotary engraving machines are cheaper than lasers, also, there is no need for an air exhaust (contrary to the laser) the maintenance cost is low and the return on investment is faster. Rotary engraving is a compact solution and designed to be used in-stores. They are very popular to personalize small items like flasks in person to create an unforgettable moment for your customers. Rotary engraving machines can be easily upgraded to open new possibilities. For instance, with a rotary device you may engrave on circular items or with a lubricant tray to retrieve glass dust carried by the lubrication system.