- Joined
- Jul 26, 2015
- Messages
- 2
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Hey guys I thought I'd register and ask here for hopefully some quick suggestions. I'm working on a tool to take to work doing construction where I need to mark the metal decking for various locations.
I know using a laser to etch metal is not reasonable but I was thinking about using spray paint with a light spray to mark the general area and then use a laser to more precisely burn the exact location in the paint. I'm not looking to burn the paint away specifically; just an extremely noticeable burn mark will work and would be preferable. I've read 405nm is best, correct me if I'm wrong.
I'm looking for:
module diameter <~3/8"
can run on AAA's or AA's - doesn't matter if I need up to 8 or so in any configuration of parallel, series or series parallel.
can burn the paint in about 1 second
precision needed is not an issue - the laser dot is already much smaller than my minimum requirement! (up to 1/4" burn mark)
would need to make ~ 500 marks/day, last ~6 months-1 year+
The laser would only be on for ~1 second to make the burn mark about once a minute. Ideally I don't want to have to add any extra electronics other than a momentary switch to activate it; ie no voltage regulators etc. but if necessary then that's workable.
Any help would be greatly appreciated! Most of my time is spent designing other aspects of this tool. If this isn't a viable option I'll end up using just a normal low powered laser so I know where to mark with a Sharpie. Thanks guys and I'm looking forward to your suggestions!
I know using a laser to etch metal is not reasonable but I was thinking about using spray paint with a light spray to mark the general area and then use a laser to more precisely burn the exact location in the paint. I'm not looking to burn the paint away specifically; just an extremely noticeable burn mark will work and would be preferable. I've read 405nm is best, correct me if I'm wrong.
I'm looking for:
module diameter <~3/8"
can run on AAA's or AA's - doesn't matter if I need up to 8 or so in any configuration of parallel, series or series parallel.
can burn the paint in about 1 second
precision needed is not an issue - the laser dot is already much smaller than my minimum requirement! (up to 1/4" burn mark)
would need to make ~ 500 marks/day, last ~6 months-1 year+
The laser would only be on for ~1 second to make the burn mark about once a minute. Ideally I don't want to have to add any extra electronics other than a momentary switch to activate it; ie no voltage regulators etc. but if necessary then that's workable.
Any help would be greatly appreciated! Most of my time is spent designing other aspects of this tool. If this isn't a viable option I'll end up using just a normal low powered laser so I know where to mark with a Sharpie. Thanks guys and I'm looking forward to your suggestions!