Benefits of laser for the automotive industry

The automotive sector is always at the forefront in the adoption of innovative technologies to improve production. The spread of laser engraving and marking in the automotive industry is a further proof of this attitude. Sustainable and transformative technology, the laser offers a number of essential advantages for car manufacturers, promoting efficiency, quality and customization. Here are all the applications of laser marking in the automotive industry and the reasons why it pays off compared to traditional solutions.

Boundless versatility: CO2 laser applications in automotive

One of the main reasons for the success of lasers in the automotive industry is certainly the wide range of possible applications from a single equipment. Thanks to its versatility, the laser lends itself to the realization of fundamental vehicle components in different materials. Among the most requested processes are:

Marking and engraving of plastic components

In addition to metal parts such as the chassis and bodywork, laser machines are ideal for engraving and marking of plastic components. The laser allows to process elements in polyurethane, polypropylene, films and other plastics widely used for the cockpits. Dashboards, consoles, wind deflectors and interior details can be made with the utmost precision and quality, and customized to your needs.

Upholstery and coating processing

The laser is also suitable for processing a wide range of natural and synthetic fabrics, such as leather, multifibre, alcantara and technical fabrics. This flexibility, combined with the precision of marking, engraving and micro-perforation operations, has led to a wide use in the production of vehicle interior coatings. From the fabrics that make up the seats to the car mats, the upholstery in the automotive becomes more comfortable and performing, covering itself with unique textures and special effects. The result is a level of customization previously unthinkable that contributes both to the prestige of the models from the aesthetic point of view and functionality.

Laser engraving for the traceability of each component

In today’s industrial landscape, not just automotive, component traceability has become essential to meet safety and quality standards. Laser machines allow you to mark serial codes on any type of plastic support. In particular, the laser allows to realize linear and 2D codes, much more effective than barcodes and widely used in the automotive. This ensures the traceability of each component produced with very low costs and higher speed of traditional engraving systems.

The reasons for the success of laser in the automotive industry

The multiplicity of possible applications and that of machinable materials are certainly not the only advantages of laser for car manufacturers. The reasons for the rapid spread of technology in the sector include:

Perfect precision in processing

The CO2 laser allows you to work the materials with extreme precision and obtain smooth and burr-free edges, improving the quality of the products without the need for additional finishes. This is crucial for an industry such as automotive that requires high standards of precision, aesthetics and functionality.

Production speed and efficiency

Laser machines allow you to work at high powers and significantly reduce production time. The production efficiency of the laser results in a greater competitiveness of the company and in the ability to meet the increasingly urgent demands of the market.

Potentially infinite customizations and effects

High precision laser machines are capable of marking and engraving unique graphics and textures, at every level of complexity. A valuable advantage for an industry such as the automotive industry where customization is an essential aspect to meet customer demands.

Waste reduction

The precision of the laser and the absence of direct mechanical contact during processing reduce waste and the risk of damaging the material. In this way the company produces less waste, reducing disposal costs and the impact on the environment. This advantage, combined with energy efficiency and the use-free processing of solvents and toxic substances, make the laser a highly sustainable technology.

Reduction of supply and production costs

The savings on energy consumption, waste disposal and production time allow to reduce the operating costs of production. In addition, the reduced risk of material damage also results in savings on raw material procurement and storage costs.

The laser innovation of OT-LAS entirely Made in Italy

For 40 years, OT-LAS has been designing and manufacturing high-tech CO2 laser engraving, marking and decoration machines in Italy. The laser systems of OT-LAS allow to process fabrics directly from the roll and to realize impeccable finishes and code marks on plastic components. The proprietary technology guarantees the high standards of a safe and controlled supply chain as well as an exclusive level of customization and dedicated assistance. The high-precision optical system and the power of laser sources offer maximum efficiency and quality in every process for the automotive sector.

Discover all laser machines for the automotive industry.